Troopers: When faced with a wrong-way driver, how to improve the odds
Dec 2, 2025, 6:04 PM | Updated: 7:18 pm
SALT LAKE COUNTY — Wrong-way crashes are often deadly and they’re always dangerous, and while troopers say they are rare, they do happen.
After the latest wrong-way crash resulted in the deaths of two people on northbound I-15 early Saturday, Utah Highway Patrol troopers were talking safety on Tuesday. And they outlined potential steps drivers could take to improve their odds if ever faced with a wrong-way car.
UHP Sgt. Mike Alexander said there were two things drivers could do in the moment once they spot a wrong-way car in front of them.
“Slow down to reduce the violence of that crash if it were to occur,” Alexander said during an interview with KSL TV. “Slowing down will also increase the amount of time you have to respond if you see a wrong-way driver coming towards you, and then if it’s possible, move out of the way of that wrong-way driver.”
Alexander said drivers should move out of the way to the right, not the left.
“Many times, we’re seeing those drivers travel down the left lanes, and so if you can move over to the right safely without causing another crash, that would be wise and would behoove the public to do.”
Alexander said additionally, drivers could help ensure their safety by buckling up, ensuring headlights are on after dark, and also by keeping eyes focused 10 to 15 seconds down the road.
He said it was important for drivers to report wrong-way cars when they see them, including as specific and detailed information as possible about car make and model, direction, and speed to give officers an opportunity to intercept the vehicle.
“It’s easy to get complacent when you’re driving the same route every day and maybe we’re running a little late so we’re picking up a little bit of speed,” Alexander said. “It’s important to make sure when we’re driving, that’s the sole activity that we’re participating in so that we’re paying attention and giving us the best chance possible.”
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