Is driving side by side with another vehicle on the highway illegal?
3 Answers
Driving side by side with another vehicle on the highway is illegal. Here are some precautions for highway driving: 1. Observe traffic rules: Novice drivers should pay attention to traffic regulations and display a probationary sign. 2. Speed limits on highways: Before entering the highway, inspect your vehicle. The minimum speed should not be less than 60 km/h, and the maximum speed should not exceed 120 km/h. 3. Merge in advance: When exiting the highway, merge into the outermost lane early upon seeing roadside signs indicating 1.5km or 1km ahead. 4. Maintain a safe distance: Keeping a safe distance is the most critical factor for driving safety. Many drivers, due to lack of experience, misjudge distances and follow too closely, which may lead to insufficient braking time.
I've been driving on highways for many years and have seen many drivers who enjoy driving side by side with friends or strangers, as if racing or chatting. However, this prolonged side-by-side driving poses significant risks, especially in high-traffic areas, as it can block entire lanes, cause traffic buildup behind, and increase the likelihood of rear-end collisions. Legally, for instance, Chinese traffic regulations explicitly prohibit continuous side-by-side driving on highways, only allowing brief side-by-side passing during overtaking. If caught by traffic police, offenders may face fines or penalty points. I recommend that everyone maintain their lane while driving on highways, avoid distractions like chatting, and prioritize safety. If you really want to communicate with friends, using walkie-talkies or stopping at rest areas is much safer. Don’t underestimate this habit—accidents can happen in an instant.
I often drive on the highway and occasionally see two cars running side by side, which looks cool, but really don't try to imitate it. Traffic laws prohibit vehicles from driving side by side for extended periods on highways because it severely hinders other cars from overtaking, creating congestion and safety hazards. It's legal to be side by side briefly during overtaking, but if you crawl slowly like a turtle, it becomes illegal. A friend of mine tried it once and was pulled over by the police, given a warning and fined. Remember, safe driving isn't just about avoiding tickets; it's about lives. Use navigation to avoid traffic jams and don't let a momentary impulse cause trouble. Develop good habits, control your speed, and maintain lane distance.
