Some two-way roads are divided into three lanes. Why are they particularly dangerous?

If you plan to overtake on a two-way road with three lanes, be aware that oncoming traffic may also be attempting to do the same. Once you assess the situation and determine it’s safe, signal your intentions early to alert oncoming traffic that you plan to move out. Some of these roads feature solid white lines indicating that overtaking is permitted in one direction only, typically for uphill traffic.

By Umme Hani on Sep 18, 2024

Some two-way roads are divided into three lanes. Why are they particularly dangerous
Middle Lane Overtaking
Confusion and Doubt
Reduced Visibility
Variations in Speed
Risk Associated with Aggressive Driving

Two way roads divided into three lanes may look like an efficient way to manage traffic flow. But they can pose crucial risks to drivers.

Middle Lane Overtaking

One of the major reasons why two-way roads with three lanes are risky is because of the directions. Both directions of traffic can use the middle lane for overtaking. This leads to a risk of head-on collisions. Vehicles may encounter oncoming traffic in the middle lane while attempting to overtake vehicles that are moving slowly.

Confusion and Doubt

Overtaking in a middle lane can lead to confusion and doubt. Some motorists might not predict encountering oncoming traffic in the middle lane. Or they may misjudge the speed and distance of approaching vehicles. It results in erratic driving behavior. And increased risk of accidents!

Reduced Visibility

There may be a reduction in visibility on two-way roads with three lanes. Particularly when approaching intersections crests and bends. When there are obstacles like parked cars trees or road infrastructure drivers may find it difficult to see approaching cars in the middle lane. This poor visibility can make collisions more likely especially when overtaking.

Variations in Speed

The possibility of speed differences between vehicles is another element. It adds to the risk associated with three-lane two-way roads. Vehicles going in the opposite direction may come into contact with faster-moving vehicles trying to pass slower-moving traffic in the middle lane. This could result in sudden lane changes tailgating or rear-end crashes.

Risks Associated with Aggressive Driving

Drivers may feel forced to assert their right-of-way or challenge other vehicles for lane space. When there is a middle lane available for overtaking. It can worsen aggressive driving behavior. This can worsen traffic conflicts and raise the possibility of collisions. Especially when drivers use risky driving techniques to gain their advantage!