Can motorcycles use the emergency lane on highways?
2 Answers
Motorcycles are absolutely not allowed to use the emergency lane on highways. Motorcycles should travel on the outermost lane of the highway. The emergency lane is reserved for vehicles and individuals facing sudden emergencies. Speed control: The driving speed of motorcycles must not be lower than 60 km/h and should not exceed 80 km/h. Due to the minimum speed limit, motorcycles with an engine displacement below 50cc are prohibited from entering highways. No passengers: When driving a motorcycle on the highway, carrying passengers is not allowed, and wearing a helmet is mandatory. Standard tolls: Except during public holidays designated by the State Council when tolls are waived, motorcycles are charged according to the toll standards for passenger vehicles with fewer than 7 seats at other times. Driving lane: According to the speed limits set for different lanes on highways, motorcycles should travel on the outermost lane of the highway.
I often see motorcycles weaving into the emergency lane on highways, which is actually illegal. Highway regulations explicitly prohibit any vehicles from using the emergency lane under non-emergency circumstances, and this rule fully applies to motorcycles as motor vehicles. The emergency lane is reserved exclusively for accident vehicles, breakdown vehicles, and emergency rescue vehicles. Occupying it during normal driving not only risks a 6-point penalty and a 200-yuan fine if caught by cameras but may also delay ambulances in life-saving situations. I remember once seeing an ambulance unable to pass due to blocked emergency lanes, nearly causing a serious delay. The correct practice for motorcycles on highways is to stay in the right-hand driving lane, maintain a safe distance, and only pull over to the emergency lane in case of a breakdown, immediately activating hazard lights and setting up a warning triangle.
