What is the difference between yellow solid lines and white solid lines?
2 Answers
The function of yellow solid lines is to separate lanes of opposing traffic directions, which can be imagined as a wall or fence dividing the road into two directions. On the other hand, white solid lines are used to separate lanes of the same direction. Below are the relevant details: 1. Penalties: Driving over white solid lines constitutes a lane violation, typically resulting in a fine of 100 yuan. Driving over yellow solid lines, however, is considered driving against traffic, punishable by a 3-point deduction and a 200-yuan fine. 2. Parking: When yellow solid lines appear along the roadside, it indicates that parking is prohibited on that road, whether for long or short durations. If the roadside has white solid lines, temporary parking is generally allowed unless there are no-parking signs. If both yellow and white solid lines are present along the roadside, parking is not permitted, and violators will face point deductions and fines.
I've been driving trucks for fifteen years and see two types of solid lines every day. The white solid line is painted in the middle of lanes going the same direction, meaning you can't cross it to change lanes – it clearly divides the lanes. The yellow solid line is more serious, mainly appearing in the center of the road or next to medians. Double yellow lines are absolutely off-limits, while single yellow lines sometimes allow overtaking with extra caution. At night, it's crucial to recognize the colors – crossing a white solid line might just get you a fine, but crossing a yellow solid line into oncoming traffic could cause a collision. Nowadays, many cameras specifically target line violations, especially when turning at intersections. On long hauls, the worst fear is not seeing the lines clearly – you've got to be extra careful during rain or at night.
