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Is it illegal to drive backwards?
I had a scary moment the other day where someone in front of me drove backward after missing an exit. Isn’t driving backward on the road illegal?
Sean Boehme · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
It’s always good to ask questions about laws on the road, especially when failing to follow the rules could lead to someone getting hurt. Let’s take a look at if it’s illegal to drive backwards.
Driving backward while on the road is illegal. It is unsafe not only for the driver but also for everyone else around them. The infraction for driving backwards could vary from state to state, but you might be hit with
a charge as serious
as reckless driving if you choose to drive backward. If you’re charged with reckless driving, you might:
- Have to pay a fine
- Face jail time
- Get your license suspended
One common reason that people attempt to drive backward is that their car is malfunctioning. If this is the case, you should immediately call for a
tow truck
rather than driving backward. It may seem inconvenient, but calling a tow truck could save you from a criminal charge or even injury. If you see someone driving backward on the road, get out of their way as quickly and safely as you can. Even experienced drivers will have trouble controlling their vehicles while driving the wrong way.
Jerry
is a car insurance comparison app that can compare your rates with over 50 of the top insurance providers in the country. If we find you a better rate, our team of experienced agents can help you switch over your plan.On average, Jerry users save over $800 each year on their coverage.
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- Gregory R.
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
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