Is it a traffic violation to drive in the opposite lane during road construction?
2 Answers
If it is indeed impossible to drive in the designated lane due to reasons such as road construction, you may temporarily use the opposite lane, which is not considered a traffic violation. Relevant information is as follows: 1. Appeal or administrative reconsideration: If you are penalized for a violation, you can appeal to have it revoked, either by filing an appeal or applying for administrative reconsideration with the higher-level traffic police department. 2. Administrative reconsideration or litigation: If you disagree with the traffic violation penalty, you may apply for administrative reconsideration with the higher-level authority or the same-level people's government within 60 days from receiving the penalty decision, or file an administrative lawsuit within three months.
Can you drive in the opposite lane during road construction? This is a question I've encountered frequently throughout my driving career. According to traffic regulations, driving against the flow of traffic is generally illegal unless there are official signs or police officers directing traffic to temporarily use the opposite lane in construction zones. Many roads undergoing maintenance will have temporary arrow signals, road signs, or traffic cones to guide vehicles, and driving accordingly is not considered a violation. However, entering the opposite lane without such guidance is definitely a violation, which can result in fines ranging from 200 to 500 yuan and possible demerit points, as recorded by police or traffic cameras. The risks are also significant, including the potential for head-on collisions or injuries to construction workers, and delays for all road users. I recommend slowing down and observing carefully when approaching construction zones, looking for signs or following the instructions of workers. Safety should always come first—don’t take risks to save a few minutes. Road construction is usually aimed at improving road quality, so enduring a short delay benefits everyone. Remember, following the rules isn’t just for your own sake but also for the safety of the community.
