What is the penalty for driving in the wrong variable lane?

[Karla]

When passing through an intersection controlled by traffic signals, failing to enter the guiding lane in the required direction of travel will result in a fine and a deduction of 2 points according to regulations. Driving in the wrong variable lane or changing lanes over the solid line at an intersection due to being in the wrong lane will be penalized as "failing to drive in the designated lane," resulting in a deduction of 3 points and a fine of 200 RMB. If you run a red light in a variable lane, you will be penalized with a deduction of 6 points and a fine of 200 RMB. Always check the traffic signals in advance and only enter the variable lane when the green light is on.

[McNorah]

I made this mistake just last week. I intended to go straight in a variable lane downtown, but it turned into a left-turn-only lane, and I got caught on camera, losing 3 points and fined 200 yuan. A traffic police friend told me that this kind of violation is usually classified as 'failing to follow the guided lane direction,' with varying penalties across regions—mostly 3 points and a fine of 100-200 yuan. The key is to watch the electronic signs for variable lanes, especially the small countdown screen. From 7 to 9 AM, it might be left-turn only, then switch back to straight after 10 AM. It's best to slow down and observe from about 50 meters away to avoid last-minute lane changes in a panic. If you do end up in the wrong lane, don’t brake suddenly or reverse—just follow the current lane direction and adjust your route at the next intersection for safety.

[OSebastian]

I remember once when I was rushing to drop my child off at school, I didn't clearly see the variable lane markings and ended up getting a ticket before realizing my mistake. Now when I encounter these zigzag-marked lanes while driving, I pay extra attention to the LED directional arrows above. According to traffic regulations, this type of violation isn't heavily penalized—usually just 3 demerit points and a fine starting from 100 yuan—but if it causes an accident, you'll bear primary responsibility. I've made it a habit to use my phone's navigation app with real-time traffic updates, which alerts me to the current direction of variable lanes. Another handy trick is to observe how the buses ahead are navigating—seasoned drivers know these road rules best. I'd recommend turning on the air conditioning in advance to reduce window fogging that might obstruct your view, and being especially vigilant about lane marking changes during rainy weather.

[ORuth]

Seasoned drivers know that variable lanes require attention to three things: sawtooth lines, electronic indicator signs, and road markings. Driving in the wrong lane is considered a violation of lane regulations, uniformly penalized with a 3-point deduction, and fines ranging from 50 to 200 yuan depending on the region. Once, after being caught, I appealed at the traffic police station but failed—they reviewed the footage and confirmed I didn't turn according to the indicator. Now, as I approach intersections, I slow down and crack the window slightly for a clear view, especially during dusk when light is insufficient. In such situations, it's best not to argue with traffic police and to leave the scene promptly.