A wrong-way driver from Csenger drove for more than three kilometres against the traffic on Hungary’s M6 motorway near Bátaszék, in southern Hungary, after failing to follow a diversion sign at roadworks, according to Tolna County Police.
The 69-year-old motorist was travelling towards Budapest when he reached a traffic diversion set up because of maintenance work near the tunnels in the Bátaszék area. Despite a sign indicating the mandatory direction of travel, the driver continued straight ahead and ended up on the wrong side of the motorway.
Wrong-way driver ignored a mandatory direction sign
Police said the man later admitted that he had ignored the sign showing the compulsory direction of travel. For this, officers imposed an administrative fine of HUF 78,000, which is around EUR 219 based on the latest official exchange rate, and added four penalty points to his driving record.
However, the driver reportedly denied that he had knowingly driven unlawfully against the traffic. He claimed the signs at the diversion were not clear and said he initially did not understand how he had ended up driving in the opposite direction.
The authorities filed a misdemeanour report against the man and also initiated a review of his fitness to drive.
Why wrong-way driving is especially dangerous
For foreign readers, the M6 is one of Hungary’s major motorways, linking Budapest with the southern part of the country. The section near Bátaszék is part of an important route towards southern Hungary and the Croatian border region.
Wrong-way driving on motorways is considered one of the most dangerous traffic violations because vehicles may approach each other at high speed with very little time to react. Even a few seconds of driving against the flow of traffic can create a potentially fatal situation.
Tolna County Police urged motorists to pay particular attention at road closures and temporary diversions. Drivers were reminded to follow traffic signs and instructions from traffic control staff at all times, especially in areas affected by roadworks.
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Similar case recently shocked drivers in Hungary
The M6 incident follows another alarming case on the M44 expressway on June 10, in which a woman travelling towards Békéscsaba reportedly drove almost 40 kilometres against traffic after entering the road on the wrong side near Kecskemét.
In that case, other drivers tried to warn her by flashing their headlights, but she reportedly did not understand what they were signalling. Her journey only ended when her car broke down. Fortunately, no crash was reported.
The two cases highlight the importance of extra attention at motorway entrances, junctions and temporary diversions. Police regularly warn that when a driver realises they are travelling in the wrong direction, they should not attempt risky manoeuvres, but should stop in the safest possible place, turn on hazard lights, leave the vehicle if necessary, and call emergency services.
Police warn drivers to stay alert at diversions
Temporary traffic arrangements can be confusing, especially near motorway work zones, but drivers remain responsible for following signs and lane markings. Authorities say motorists should slow down when approaching diversions and should avoid relying solely on routine or navigation apps.
The latest case ended without a collision, but police stressed that wrong-way driving can have tragic consequences within moments. The driver now faces further proceedings, while the review of his driving fitness may determine whether he can continue to hold a licence.
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