How many minutes can you park in the highway emergency lane without being fined?
2 Answers
Parking in the highway emergency lane will be penalized regardless of the duration. Unless there is sufficient justification proving that the vehicle entered the emergency lane due to an urgent situation, penalties will apply. Only when a vehicle breaks down and cannot continue driving is it permissible to park in the emergency lane while awaiting assistance. The following behaviors are prohibited while driving on the highway: 1. Reversing, driving in the opposite direction, making a U-turn by crossing the central divider, or stopping within the lane. 2. Overtaking on ramps, acceleration lanes, or deceleration lanes. 3. Riding or straddling the lane divider or driving on the shoulder. 4. Driving or parking in the emergency lane without an urgent situation. 5. Test driving or learning to operate a motor vehicle.
As a long-distance driver, I know many people think the emergency lane can be used for a quick stop. But the reality is, unless your car has a flat tire, the engine is smoking, or someone suddenly falls seriously ill, stopping for even a second is illegal. Once on the Shanghai-Kunming Expressway, I saw a car ahead stop in the emergency lane to switch drivers, and they were ticketed by a patrol car the moment they stepped out. Nowadays, highway cameras are denser than streetlights—don’t think you can stop for a few minutes; you’ll get a ticket notification the second you pull over. My advice: if you need a break, head to a service area. It might be a detour, but it’s hassle-free. Also, remember: if you do have a breakdown, turn on your hazard lights, set up a warning triangle, and stand outside the guardrail—otherwise, you’ll still get penalized.
