Is a tidal lane a variable lane?

[SophiaDella]

Tidal lanes are a type of variable lane. Here are the specific details: 1. Tidal Lanes: A tidal lane is a type of variable lane, but it is primarily used to switch between different directions of travel. This means the direction of the lane can change—it may allow northbound traffic at one time and southbound traffic at another. An electronic sign is usually placed above the road, and drivers should follow its instructions. If the sign displays a straight arrow or a turn arrow, the lane is open for use; if it shows a cross (X), the lane is closed. 2. Markings and Function: The lane is marked by two parallel yellow dashed lines. Its purpose is to distribute traffic flow between different directions. For example, if there is heavy southbound traffic and light northbound traffic, the lane will be adjusted to allow southbound travel, and vice versa.

[DelSabrina]

I have to drive on that tidal flow lane to work every day. To put it bluntly, it's a type of variable lane, but what makes it special is that it switches directions according to morning and evening rush hours. An extra lane is opened for inbound traffic in the morning and for outbound traffic in the evening, with electronic signs on the traffic light poles clearly indicating the direction. Traffic police can adjust the lane direction from the command center using computers, and there are embedded LED pavement markers for guidance. It can be confusing the first time you drive on it—just remember not to cross the double yellow lines and follow the overhead arrow indicators. Otherwise, you'll get caught on camera and fined 3 points plus 200 yuan. I've seen many out-of-town drivers panic-brake after taking the wrong lane, but really, as long as you pay attention to the LED screen prompts, you'll be fine.

[SanJack]

The last municipal lecture mentioned that tidal lanes are a typical intelligent variable lane system, which relies more on big traffic data than ordinary lane changes. The traffic management bureau has installed geomagnetic sensors at bridge and tunnel bottlenecks for real-time counting. During the morning rush hour, when traffic is heavier from west to east, additional lanes are opened, and in the evening, it automatically switches to prioritize east-to-west traffic. The most obvious example is the section on Shenzhen's Shennan Avenue, where three lanes can directly change to two lanes entering the city and one lane exiting. However, it's important to note that on rainy days, the illuminated lane markings may reflect light and become hard to see, so it's best to check the lane alerts on your phone navigation in advance.

[VonHannah]

A friend who designed traffic signals mentioned that tidal lanes essentially achieve spatial reuse through variable message signs + movable barriers. At 7 AM, the electronic display shows a left-turn lane, and by 9:30 AM, it changes to a straight-through lane. The key lies in the control system, which is now connected to the smart traffic platform. The tidal lane on Xujiahui Road in Shanghai has reduced traffic congestion by 30%, but beginners tend to hesitate during the switching period. I recommend observing the overhead lane signs 300 meters in advance instead of changing lanes only after reaching the solid line.