A Kitchener-area driver is sharing a harrowing story of a near-collision with a vehicle travelling the wrong way on a major regional highway, an incident captured on dash cam and described as "very frightening." The event occurred on Highway 7/8, a critical artery in the Region of Waterloo.
Dash Cam Captures the Terrifying Moment
The driver's dashboard camera recorded the alarming scene: a vehicle moving directly against the flow of traffic. The video clearly shows the wrong-way motorist approaching oncoming lanes, forcing other drivers to take immediate evasive action to avoid a catastrophic head-on collision. The individual who captured the footage reported the heart-stopping moment to local authorities, emphasizing the sheer luck that prevented a tragedy.
Ongoing Concerns for Highway Safety
This incident on December 30, 2025, underscores persistent worries about road safety in Ontario. Wrong-way driving events, though relatively rare, carry an extremely high risk for fatal outcomes. Police services across the province routinely warn drivers about the dangers of impaired, distracted, or confused driving that can lead to such perilous situations. The Kitchener driver's experience serves as a stark reminder for all motorists to remain vigilant, especially on high-speed multi-lane highways.
Response and Recommendations for Drivers
While the aftermath of this specific event, including whether the wrong-way driver was apprehended, was not detailed in the initial report, safety experts advise specific actions if drivers encounter a similar threat. Recommendations include:
- Move to the right shoulder if it is safe to do so, as wrong-way drivers often mistakenly travel in the left (fast) lane.
- Slow down, honk your horn, and flash your headlights to alert the oncoming driver.
- Call 911 immediately to report the vehicle's location, direction, and description.
The publication of this dash cam footage by journalist Alexandra Holyk aims to raise public awareness. It highlights how quickly a routine commute can turn life-threatening due to the actions of one motorist. As traffic volumes fluctuate and new drivers take to the roads, sharing these experiences is crucial for community safety.
