Can You Drive Over the Diverging Arrow Markings?
2 Answers
Diverging arrow markings cannot be driven over. Diverging arrow markings are a type of prohibited road marking, and it is forbidden to drive over or cross them. It is also not allowed to park arbitrarily within the area of diverging arrow markings. In special circumstances, such as when the driver suddenly becomes unable to continue driving due to a physical condition or when the vehicle breaks down and cannot continue moving, parking within the diverging arrow markings may not result in penalties, depending on the judgment of the traffic police. Below are specific details about diverging arrow markings: 1. Penalties. Whether in urban areas or on highways, driving over diverging arrow markings will result in penalty points. Driving over diverging arrow markings is subject to a fine and a deduction of 3 points. If you park on diverging arrow markings and also occupy the emergency lane, you will be penalized with a fine and a deduction of 6 points. 2. Design Purpose. They ensure that vehicles drive within designated lanes, serving a regulatory and guiding function to effectively reduce accidents. Vehicles that do not comply with the regulations pose safety hazards to other drivers, so it is essential to strictly adhere to traffic laws. 3. Enforcement Methods. There are generally two methods: electronic surveillance and manual enforcement. Electronic surveillance is usually set up at various complex traffic conditions, and once a vehicle drives over diverging arrow markings, it is immediately captured and transmitted to a backend system for manual judgment. Another method involves traffic police standing in designated areas with handheld cameras to capture violations and issue on-the-spot penalties.
As a veteran driver with over a decade of experience, I can confidently say that you must never cross the guide lines. Last week on the elevated highway, I saw a guy who was in a hurry to change lanes and crossed the guide lines, only to get rear-ended by the car behind him. Although no one was hurt, the front bumper was completely smashed, costing over 3,000 yuan to repair, plus a 200-yuan fine and points deducted. Guide lines are designed to ensure safe traffic flow, especially at intersections or highway exits. If you cross them, you might block vehicles from other lanes, causing confusion or even accidents. I recommend everyone to pay more attention to road signs and markings while driving, adjust lanes in advance, and avoid rushing. Developing this habit can help you avoid such troubles. In heavy rain or fog when visibility is poor, it’s even riskier to cross the lines—navigation apps can help remind you of road conditions. Practice smooth driving regularly, keep your focus on the road ahead, and avoid distractions like your phone. Safety always comes first—nothing is more important than that.
