Can You Change a Spare Tire on the Highway Emergency Lane?
2 Answers
Yes, but safety precautions must be taken. Turn on the hazard lights and place the emergency warning triangle 150 to 200 meters behind the vehicle. Here is more relevant information: 1. Situations where the emergency lane can be used include: a. When passengers in the vehicle suddenly fall ill, a woman is giving birth, or a student is rushing to an exam, the emergency lane can be occupied. b. When the vehicle experiences sudden malfunctions that prevent normal operation, such as a flat tire, engine failure, transmission issues, brake failure, steering loss, accidents, or incidents like fire or explosion—essentially any situation where the vehicle cannot operate normally or the safety of passengers is at risk—it is permissible to pull over onto the emergency lane. 2. Penalties for occupying the emergency lane: On urban expressways or highways, if a vehicle stops on the emergency lane or shoulder during traffic congestion without an emergency, the penalty is a fine of 200 yuan and 6 demerit points. The high cost of illegally occupying the emergency lane on highways deters most drivers from doing so casually.
I remember once when I was driving on the highway, a tire suddenly blew out, and I had to quickly move the car to the emergency lane. While changing the spare tire is an option, safety comes first—don’t panic. Turning on the hazard lights is a must, and check the rearview mirror to ensure no cars are coming before getting out. Place a warning triangle at least 50 meters behind the car—don’t forget like I did the first time, almost getting fined by a patrol car. When changing the tire, work quickly, and having the right tools is crucial. Also, check the spare tire’s pressure beforehand to avoid another blowout. It’s wise to keep a reflective vest in the car, especially at night when it’s more dangerous due to high-speed traffic. Lastly, if traffic is heavy or you lack confidence, calling for roadside assistance is safer than taking risks—it saves time, effort, and ensures safety. Remember, the emergency lane is only for emergencies; parking there otherwise can lead to fines, points deducted, or even life-threatening situations.
