Can You Drive Over Yellow Dashed Lines?
2 Answers
Yellow dashed lines can be crossed. Single yellow line: According to traffic rules, a single yellow dashed line allows overtaking or making a U-turn when it is safe to do so; therefore, you may drive over the line under safe conditions. Article 45 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China" states: Motor vehicles shall not exceed the speed limits indicated by traffic signs or markings on the road. On roads without speed limit signs or markings, motor vehicles shall not exceed the following maximum speeds: On roads with only one motor vehicle lane in the same direction, the maximum speed in urban areas is 50 kilometers per hour. According to this regulation, if there is no speed limit sign in this area, the maximum speed is 50 kilometers per hour. White dashed lines: Most road markings are white. White dashed lines separate lanes traveling in the same direction and allow lane changes or crossing the line; white solid lines, however, do not permit crossing and often appear as extensions of white dashed lines before intersections or to separate roadside parking areas. Yellow solid lines: These are used to separate lanes traveling in opposite directions, typically painted in the middle of the road. Roads with multiple lanes have double yellow lines, while roads with fewer lanes use a single yellow line. Whether single or double, yellow solid lines strictly prohibit vehicles from crossing, so driving over the line, overtaking, or making a U-turn is not allowed.
I just got my driver's license not long ago. During driving lessons, the instructor emphasized the importance of road markings. That yellow dashed line can indeed be crossed, meaning you're allowed to change lanes or overtake when it's safe, unlike solid lines which strictly prohibit it. I remember during practice, the instructor had us cross the line to simulate overtaking on an empty road, stressing that it must be done only when no cars are within visible range to avoid accidents. For example, on a two-way road, if the car ahead is too slow, you can cross the line to pass, but you must signal, check the rearview mirror, and ensure no oncoming traffic. However, beginners sometimes get flustered; crossing the line, they forget to check blind spots. A classmate of mine scraped another car this way and had to pay a hefty sum. So, even though the rules permit it, caution is essential. Now, when I drive myself, I generally avoid crossing it unless necessary—safety first. Over time, I've learned that road signs and markings are there to protect everyone; don't break the rules lightly. Listening to traffic discussions on the radio, experts say crossing lines in rain or fog carries higher risks, requiring early speed reduction. These details make my driving more assured, helping me develop good habits to prevent accidents.
