Can you cross a yellow dashed line for overtaking or turning?
2 Answers
You can cross a yellow dashed line for overtaking or turning. Introduction to road yellow lines: Yellow lines are used to separate lanes of traffic moving in opposite directions, typically painted in the center of the road, acting like a divider that splits the road into two directions. Whether it's a single or double yellow line, if it's solid, crossing is strictly prohibited. Under normal driving conditions, you should not cross the line. Whether it's a single or double yellow line, if it's dashed, you can overtake or make a U-turn when it's safe to do so. Single yellow lines are generally used on roads with up to four lanes (including bicycle lanes), while double yellow lines are used on wider roads. Single yellow line is solid: Crossing is strictly prohibited, including actions like overtaking, turning, or making a U-turn. Under normal driving conditions, you should not cross the line. Driving over a solid line is not allowed, and making a U-turn is considered a violation of the no-crossing rule, resulting in a 3-point penalty. Single yellow line is dashed: You can overtake or make a U-turn when it's safe to do so. A single yellow line serves as a center divider to separate traffic directions. A yellow dashed line allows temporary crossing for lane changes or overtaking during driving, while a solid line should be treated like a wall—absolutely no crossing. Roads with four or more lanes in both directions are marked with double yellow lines, while those with fewer lanes use single yellow lines.
It's perfectly acceptable to overtake or turn when encountering yellow dashed lines. Having driven for many years, I often borrow the opposite lane to overtake when encountering such lines in rural areas or city outskirts, especially when there's a slow-moving truck ahead. Dashed lines indicate that temporary crossing of the line is permitted, unlike solid lines which completely prohibit it. However, you must pay attention to the surroundings, such as whether there are oncoming vehicles approaching rapidly, and ensure clear visibility and sufficient safe distance. Once, during a road trip with friends, I used this method to overtake on a country road, saving time and enhancing safety. But I must remind everyone not to attempt this on curves or in rainy or foggy conditions, as it can easily lead to accidents. Remember, rules are for safety—go when you should go, stop when you should stop, and always drive with extra caution.
