Can the dashed lines in the waiting area be crossed?
3 Answers
The dashed lines in the waiting area can be crossed. Notes for the left-turn waiting area: 1. When the green light for the straight lane in the same direction is on: Vehicles in the left-turn lane must move forward to the waiting area and wait for the signal. 2. White dashed line box: The left-turn lane has an extended white dashed line box several meters long, directly connecting to the middle of the road. These white dashed lines mark the "left-turn waiting area," allowing vehicles in the left-turn lane to enter in advance when the green light for the straight lane in the same direction is on. 3. Slightly curved end: The left-turn waiting area extends from the original vehicle stop line to the center of the road, with a slightly curved end, crossing the pedestrian crossing in the middle. At intersections with a left-turn waiting area, traffic signals follow the rule of straight movement first, followed by left turns.
As someone who enjoys studying traffic regulations, I often observe the design of dashed lines at turning bays at intersections. These lines are specifically designed to guide vehicles safely into the waiting area, and it's perfectly fine to drive over them since dashed lines, according to traffic rules, are meant to be crossed, indicating temporary lane changes or directional adjustments. Remember, when driving, especially at traffic light intersections, as the green light turns on and you prepare to make a left turn, you can slowly let your wheels roll over those dashed lines to enter the turning bay. This won't violate any rules; instead, it helps you park precisely without obstructing straight-moving traffic. Of course, safety comes first—ensure there are no obstacles or aggressive vehicles around, especially when rearview mirrors are blurred after rain. Such markings are designed to improve efficiency, and driving over them is a common practice in regular driving, as long as it's done cautiously. In summary, properly utilizing the dashed lines at turning bays can make your driving smoother and more seamless.
From my years of driving experience, slightly crossing the dotted line in a left-turn waiting area is absolutely feasible; it's essentially a type of road marking meant to remind you that it's a buffer zone where adjustment and entry are allowed. I often do this at congested intersections during my daily drives, especially at complex crossings outside Beijing's Fifth Ring Road. As long as the traffic light permits, I gently glide over the line, which helps shorten waiting time and reduces the likelihood of traffic jams. However, it's important to note that you shouldn't drive too fast when crossing the line, and you should watch out for unexpected approaches by e-bikes or pedestrians, as this could easily lead to minor accidents. This is one of the basic skills, and if new drivers are unsure, they can practice in less crowded areas to get a feel for it. Overall, traffic rules clearly allow it, so there's no need to overthink it.
