What are the penalties for motor vehicles driving in non-motorized lanes?
2 Answers
Motor vehicles driving in non-motorized lanes is considered as driving not in accordance with the designated lane, and will be subject to a fine without point deduction. Article 37 of the Road Traffic Safety Law stipulates: Where special lanes are designated on roads, only specified vehicles are allowed to pass within the special lanes, and other vehicles shall not enter the special lanes to drive. When motor vehicles are driven on roads, the maximum speed indicated by the speed limit signs shall not be exceeded. On road sections without speed limit signs, safe speed shall be maintained. When driving at night or on road sections prone to danger, or under weather conditions such as sandstorms, hail, rain, snow, fog, or icy roads, the driving speed shall be reduced. Non-motorized lanes: Non-motorized lanes refer to the lanes on the carriageway of highways or urban roads, from the right curb (line) of the sidewalk to the first lane dividing line (or isolation belt or pier), or the lanes marked on the sidewalk, which are exclusively for non-motorized vehicles except under special circumstances.
I've been driving for decades. Once, in a hurry to get something done, I turned into a bike lane in a busy downtown area and got caught by a traffic camera—ended up with a 200-yuan fine and 3 demerit points. Felt utterly foolish. After researching, I learned that such violations not only affect your driving record but can also cause trouble during annual inspections. Worse, if an accident happens, you'd bear greater liability and have to cover all damages. So I specifically bought a dash cam and now remind myself every time I drive not to recklessly enter restricted lanes. Especially during rush hours, bike lanes are crowded with pedestrians, e-bikes, and students cycling back and forth—way too risky. Now, having developed better habits, I actually save time by driving slower and using map apps with lane reminders. Safe driving isn’t just about rules; it’s about respecting lives.