What is the difference between a three-section road and a four-section road?
2 Answers
The difference between a three-section road and a four-section road lies in the direction of travel and the scope of application. Direction of travel: A three-section road is a two-way motor vehicle lane; a four-section road not only separates motor vehicles from non-motor vehicles but also separates motor vehicles traveling in opposite directions. Scope of application: A three-section road is suitable for areas with lower vehicle speeds, with non-motor vehicle lanes on both sides traveling on the right; a four-section road is suitable for areas with higher motor vehicle speeds, typically expressways or main roads with two or more motor vehicle lanes in each direction. Below is relevant information: Three-section road: Commonly known as a 'three-plate' cross-section, the middle is a two-way motor vehicle lane, with non-motor vehicle lanes on both sides traveling on the right. Four-section road: Commonly known as a 'four-plate' cross-section, based on the three-section road, the middle motor vehicle lane is further divided into two, separating the directions of travel.
The difference between three-lane and four-lane roads is actually quite significant. As someone who has been driving for many years, I've noticed that three-lane roads usually have narrower lanes, making them prone to congestion during peak hours due to frequent lane changes, which slightly increases the risk of accidents. On the other hand, four-lane roads are generally designed to be wider, with dedicated left-turn and right-turn lanes, resulting in much smoother traffic flow and easier overtaking during jams. In terms of safety, four-lane roads have more dividers and buffer spaces, reducing collision incidents. Cost-wise, constructing four-lane roads requires more pavement and is more expensive, but it significantly reduces traffic delays in the long run. Maintenance is also more complex for four-lane roads, requiring regular inspections. From an urban planning perspective, three-lane roads are more suitable for small streets and alleys, while four-lane roads are the standard for main thoroughfares. I recommend paying close attention to lane markings and planning your route in advance while driving.
