What is the safest reaction if an oncoming car is on a two-lane highway?

When encountering an oncoming car in your lane on a two-lane highway, the safest reaction is to slow down and steer right. This response helps to create more space between you and the oncoming vehicle, which reduces the risk of a collision. By slowing down, you give yourself more time to assess the situation and react appropriately, while steering right allows you to move towards the shoulder of the road or a safer area.

Additionally, this maneuver is effective because it helps you avoid potential head-on collisions, which are often more severe than side impact collisions. Maintaining control of your vehicle while also signaling your intent to maneuver can increase safety for all drivers on the road. Therefore, the decision to slow down and steer right is a defensive driving technique aimed at minimizing danger in a potentially hazardous situation.