Can you change lanes on double yellow dashed lines?
1 Answers
If double yellow dashed lines serve as road dividers, lane changing is not permitted. Crossing the line constitutes driving against traffic and will be penalized as such, with full liability in case of an accident. However, if the double yellow dashed lines mark a tidal flow lane, lane changing is allowed under the condition of ensuring safety and not disrupting other vehicles. Therefore, the specific function of double yellow dashed lines determines the applicable rules. Traditional double yellow lines, whether dashed or solid, act as road dividers to separate opposing traffic flows. This means vehicles must stay to the right of the double yellow lines. Crossing them indicates entering the opposite lane, which is considered driving against traffic and subject to penalties. In the event of a collision with an oncoming vehicle, the driver crossing the double yellow lines bears full responsibility. Overtaking by crossing double yellow lines is also prohibited. This implies that if a vehicle is traveling in the innermost lane, passing must be done by accelerating on the right side, not by overtaking from the left in the opposing lane. Double yellow dashed lines as tidal flow lanes represent a relatively new regulation aimed at improving traffic efficiency. These are implemented on sections with heavy one-way traffic, introducing new markings and traffic patterns. For example, during morning rush hours, eastbound traffic may be heavy while westbound traffic is light. Traffic police can then designate tidal flow lanes based on real-time traffic conditions, allowing the lane direction to be flexibly adjusted and enabling lane changes.
