Can You Use the Emergency Lane When Traffic is Congested Due to an Accident on the Highway?

[LaNicole]

You cannot use the emergency lane when traffic is congested due to an accident on the highway. According to the regulations of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China, motor vehicles are not allowed to drive or park in the emergency lane on highways under non-emergency situations, and highway traffic congestion does not qualify as an emergency. Precautions for driving on highways: When driving on highways, motor vehicles must not reverse, cross the central divider, or make U-turns. Additionally, vehicles are not allowed to overtake when driving on ramps, acceleration lanes, or deceleration lanes. Penalties for occupying the emergency lane on highways: According to the Road Traffic Safety Law, motor vehicles that occupy the emergency lane on highways will result in a penalty of 6 demerit points on the driver's license and a fine. The emergency lane on highways is reserved for special vehicles or for use in emergency situations.

[McAaron]

When encountering traffic congestion due to an accident on the highway, you must never use the emergency lane. The emergency lane is a dedicated passage reserved for emergency vehicles such as ambulances and fire trucks. According to the law, ordinary vehicles driving into it will be fined more than 200 yuan and receive penalty points. A few days ago, I saw a driver impatiently sneak into the emergency lane during a traffic jam, only to block the path of a rescue vehicle, delaying the accident response—truly harming both others and themselves. Highway rules are strictly enforced, and the Road Traffic Safety Law explicitly prohibits such behavior to ensure everyone's safety. In the event of a traffic jam, it is advisable to turn off the engine to save fuel, activate hazard lights to alert vehicles behind, and patiently wait for traffic police or rescue personnel to manage the situation. Remember, the emergency lane is not a shortcut but a lifeline—blocking it is risking lives. Pay attention to safety knowledge while driving and develop disciplined driving habits to avoid many troubles.

[VanTessa]

Dude, never take the emergency lane during highway traffic jams—I’ve been there. Once, I saw someone sneak into it during a massive jam, thinking it’d save time, but traffic cops showed up fast, handing out tickets: 300 yuan and penalty points. The emergency lane is for ambulances, not your personal shortcut. Blocking it delays medical help—how awful is that? What I learned: just be patient during jams, turn on hazard lights, and wait with water and snacks handy. Plus, many highway apps now alert you to accidents ahead, so adjusting your route early beats wasting time. Bottom line: following rules keeps you safe and stress-free. Don’t copy those ‘clever’ drivers—regret kicks in when things go wrong.

[CaliAnn]

Absolutely do not use the emergency lane during highway traffic jams. The emergency lane is exclusively for emergency vehicles, and ordinary vehicles entering it is a violation that will be penalized. With years of driving experience, I've witnessed too many similar situations; once blocked, the risk of delayed rescue increases significantly. During traffic jams, it's advisable to stay in the main lane, turn on hazard lights for warning, turn off the engine, and wait for traffic to clear. Staying calm is the key to safety.