Is it a traffic violation for motorcycles to drive in non-motorized lanes?
1 Answers
Motorcycles are classified as motor vehicles, and driving in non-motorized lanes constitutes a traffic violation, which may result in a 3-point penalty and a warning or a fine ranging from 20 to 200 yuan. Article 36 of the 'Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China' stipulates: Based on road conditions and traffic needs, roads are divided into motor vehicle lanes, non-motorized lanes, and pedestrian lanes. Motor vehicles, non-motorized vehicles, and pedestrians must travel in their respective lanes. On roads without designated lanes, motor vehicles should travel in the middle, while non-motorized vehicles and pedestrians should travel on the sides. However, in many cities, motorcycles and electric bicycles share a lane, and signs may indicate that motorcycles and electric bicycles should keep to the right. In such cases, penalties are generally not imposed. Additionally, if traffic police direct motorcycles to use non-motorized lanes due to traffic congestion, slippery roads from rain, or haze conditions, it is not considered a violation, and no points will be deducted. Therefore, whether a motorcycle will be penalized for using a non-motorized lane depends on the specific traffic conditions and local regulations. However, if signs explicitly prohibit motorcycles from using non-motorized lanes and there is no police direction, it is a violation. Traffic police may stop the vehicle, record the offense, and impose a fine. If the rider is found to be driving without a license, the motorcycle may also be impounded. Moreover, if an accident occurs due to a motorcycle driving in a non-motorized lane, the motorcycle rider will bear full responsibility.
