What should a driver do if they miss their exit on the highway?

When a driver misses their exit on the highway, the safest and most appropriate action is to continue to the next exit and turn around. This option helps maintain the flow of traffic and adheres to safe driving practices. Highways are designed for high-speed travel, and attempting to make sudden maneuvers like a U-turn or backing up can create dangerous situations for both the driver and others on the road.

Making a U-turn immediately is highly unsafe as it can lead to collisions with oncoming traffic. Backing up to the missed exit not only risks a crash but might also be illegal in many jurisdictions due to highway safety regulations. Driving on the shoulder to reach the exit can pose risks and is typically prohibited unless emergency conditions dictate otherwise, as the shoulder is meant for vehicles in distress rather than for regular traffic maneuvers.

By continuing to the next exit, a driver can safely re-enter the highway in the opposite direction or take an alternate route back to their desired destination without endangering themselves or other motorists.