What Counts as Crossing the Line?
2 Answers
In a straight lane, changing lanes in the solid line area and stopping at the edge line in the solid line area at intersections (divided into left, straight, and right directions) are considered crossing the line. Below is a detailed introduction to the traffic lines that must not be crossed: 1. Optical illusion markings: These lines are painted from 200m outside the tunnel to 100m inside the tunnel, serving as a safety precaution. 2. Deceleration markings: Deceleration markings can be divided into horizontal and longitudinal deceleration markings, which are white dashed lines set up in toll plaza areas, exit ramps, or other sections requiring vehicles to slow down. Horizontal deceleration markings consist of a set of parallel white dashed lines to remind drivers to slow down. 3. Channelizing lines: Channelizing lines are commonly seen in both urban areas and highways, mainly used at complex intersections to help drivers find the correct direction. 4. Rumble strips: These have a bumpy shape, with a base and protrusion height of 5-7mm. Rumble strips are usually in the form of dots or bars, providing effective warnings and reminders to drivers, hence also known as noise markings.
After driving for so many years, I've seen many drivers ask how to determine if they've crossed the line. Simply put, it's when the vehicle's wheels touch the road markings—whether it's solid white lines, solid yellow lines, or dashed lines. Line-crossing often happens during turns, on slopes, or when distracted, like when I was younger and often lost in thought while driving, unknowingly drifting over the line. Traffic regulations call this 'crossing the line,' which may result in a warning for minor cases or fines for serious ones, especially on highways or urban roads with surveillance cameras. The surveillance can capture wheel marks, or traffic police can check tire tracks on-site—the clearer the evidence, the more likely it's a violation. To avoid it, just develop good habits: keep both hands on the steering wheel, focus on the road ahead, and avoid excessive speeding. While crossing the line might seem minor, frequent occurrences increase accident risks—drivers in adjacent lanes might get startled. That's why I always say driving steadily is key, and safety should always come first.
