Gordon Graham
Category: Law Enforcement

Gordon Graham here with Today’s Tip from Lexipol. 

Today’s Tip is directed to all law enforcement personnel and concerns wrong-way drivers. You know the routine. The dispatch center receives calls about a wrong-way driver on a divided highway. Is it a drunk driver? Is it an elderly person who is confused? Is the driver lost?  

Handling a wrong-way driver is a dangerous business. Be sure to listen to updated information. Remain alert. Remain vigilant.

You know nothing when the call first comes across the radio. But you do know that quick action is required. Lives are at stake. Who is at risk? You name it. The wrong-way driver. You. Other motorists. Everyone. 

There are many things you should consider as you respond to the call. How is the roadway configured? What about sight distance? Is there limited access? All these factors are worthy of your consideration and central to these factors is safety.   

Your highway response and approach is vitally important. Don’t add to the danger by driving the wrong way on a divided roadway. You should also avoid the left lane. Yes, I know what you are saying. Hey Gordon, everyone is in the right lane and I need to expedite my response. Sure, but you also need to get there in one piece. Drive in the right lane. Consider that aspect from a wrong-way driver standpoint. The driver is now approaching you in the left lane. Head-on collision anyone?  

Every year, tens of thousands of motorists die in vehicle crashes. Way too many law enforcement officers die in crashes every year too. Handling a wrong-way driver is a dangerous business. Be sure to listen to updated information. Remain alert. Remain vigilant. Avoid the temptation of driving in the left lane when you respond. Your life and the lives of others depend on it.  

And that’s Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Until next time, Gordon Graham signing off.