Paul Messam, Gleaner Writer

It is impossible to avoid encountering traffic on our tightly packed roadways.

While we negotiate our way, keeping a safe distance from other road users, there is always a chance that an oncoming driver will come over into your lane.

It is, therefore, very important that motorists be reminded or become fully aware of the various conditions that could cause another driver to cross over the centre line.

And, according to Paul Clemetson, senior director of the road safety unit in the Ministry of Transport, being aware of the reasons could provide the extra seconds required to prevent a collision.

Some possible reasons for crossing the centre are:

Poor visibility

Direct sunlight, blinding headlights at night, bad weather, large vehicles, and blind or blocked intersections can cut a driver's ability to see and be seen.

Driver impairment

A motorist could be sleepy, drunk, confused or distracted.

Reduced space

A puddle of water, an object in the road, a huge pothole, a narrow bridge, or parked cars may reduce the width of a driver's lane, and so forcing him or her into the path of an oncoming motor vehicle.

The mistaken judgement of a manoeuvre

It is possible for a driver to misjudge speed or distance when passing, turning or going around a curve.

Mechanical failure

A blow-out or other mechan-ical failure can cause an oncoming car to get out of control.

Serious sudden moves by others

This could be as a result of children running into the streets, careless cyclists and pedestrians could make a last-second move in front of an oncoming vehicle.

A loss of traction

An unexpected loss of traction caused by gravel, mud, or even a strong cross wind could cause an oncoming driver to skid into another driver's lane.

Avoiding road conflicts

Knowing the reasons why someone may cross over and hit you, could prevent a serious collision. Your reaction could be as simple as pulling over to one side to get out of the way of a turning vehicle, or just slowing down.

Here are some tips to avoid high-impact collisions:

Switch on the headlights in the daytime to make your motor vehicle more visible.

Move to the left to give the oncoming driver more room and space to prevent a collision.

It is best to reduce speed. The driver could go slower than the required speed posted, which may be too fast with heavy oncoming traffic. Lower speeds usually allow a driver to stop in time.

Immediately take evasive action. If a car crosses into your lane, move swiftly out of the way by pulling into the closest space at your left or stop if necessary.