Is it a violation to cross the yellow line into the opposite lane when turning left?
3 Answers
Crossing the yellow line into the opposite lane when turning left is considered a traffic violation. The handling methods and precautions for crossing the yellow line are as follows: Handling methods for crossing the yellow line: According to the "Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driving Licenses," the driver will be penalized with a deduction of 3 points. Additionally, based on the "Road Traffic Safety Law," the driver will also be fined. Precautions for crossing the yellow line: In some cities with relatively lax traffic management, crossing the yellow line into the opposite lane will not be penalized if it does not affect others' passage and poses no danger. However, in cities with stricter traffic management, crossing the yellow line into the opposite lane will result in penalties.
When I first started driving last year, I was always worried about whether crossing the yellow line would get me fined. Turning left and crossing the yellow line into the opposite lane is absolutely a violation! There are two types of yellow lines: solid and dashed, but as long as you cross the line into the opposite lane, it counts as illegally invading the opposing space, and you're likely to be caught by cameras or traffic police. A solid yellow line means absolutely no crossing—even slightly touching it during a left turn is not allowed. A dashed yellow line might allow overtaking, but crossing it during a left turn is still risky because it interferes with oncoming straight-moving vehicles. I've heard of several ticket examples—a friend got fined 3 points and 100 RMB for crossing the line while turning left at an intersection, and they explained it as a common beginner mistake. In reality, the rules are clearly stated in traffic laws: crossing the line is a violation. Now I’m more careful—I check my position before turning and would rather take a wider turn than risk it. When driving, practice lane discipline more to reduce accident risks.
As an experienced driver, those accustomed to road conditions know that crossing yellow lines never ends well. Turning left and crossing the yellow line into the opposite lane? That's a guaranteed traffic violation! The rule is straightforward: yellow lines are dividing markers—solid lines must never be crossed, and dashed lines generally shouldn't be either. Especially during a left turn, crossing them equates to invading the opposite lane, and the penalties won't be lenient. I remember over twenty years ago when I was driving professionally, I took a turn too fast on a rainy day, crossed the line, and got slapped with a 200-yuan fine—a lesson I won't forget. The core issue is safety: crossing lines significantly increases the risk of side collisions, particularly when oncoming traffic is heavy. My advice to new drivers is to pay close attention to road signs, slow down early to avoid crossing boundaries, and develop good habits to save on fines. In daily driving, lane divisions exist to protect everyone's right of way—small oversights can lead to major accidents.
