Is it generally not penalized to cross a single white line on the highway?
2 Answers
Crossing a single white line on the highway is penalized, just like on regular roads, as it constitutes a violation of prohibited marking instructions. If caught by electronic surveillance or traffic police, it will result in a 3-point deduction and a fine. The purpose of white solid lines is to separate lanes in the same direction, typically used at intersections before traffic lights, highway ramps, bridge entrances, tunnels, etc. White solid lines are also present in white guiding lines, and vehicles are strictly prohibited from suddenly changing lanes and crossing them when approaching. Introduction to highway white lines: 1. Rumble strips: Raised white markings on the road that alert drivers to curves, downhill sections, etc.; 2. Optical illusion markings: These create an optical illusion for drivers, making the road appear to narrow or dip, prompting them to slow down before entering tunnels; 3. Deceleration markings: These create a visual narrowing of the lane, inducing a sense of pressure to remind drivers to slow down when navigating curves or slopes; 4. Guiding lines: Used at irregular, overly wide, or complex intersections and other special locations.
Well, I've been driving on highways for almost twenty years, and I used to cross single white lines several times, thinking it was no big deal. But later I realized those white lines mark the lane boundaries, and crossing them could get you caught by cameras or police, especially near highway exits in big cities. To be honest, enforcement isn’t always strict—small towns or nighttime might turn a blind eye—but if a sideswipe accident happens, you’re fully at fault, and your insurance premium will go up. My relative was fined 200 yuan and got 1 penalty point for crossing a line on the highway, regretting not learning sooner. So, us experienced drivers always advise: check your mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes, keep a safe distance, and build good habits—don’t invite trouble. Safe driving isn’t just for yourself, but for everyone on the road.
