What is the penalty for not driving in the designated lane?

[VonSadie]

The penalty for not driving in the designated lane is a fine and 3 demerit points. If the violation occurs on roads other than highways or urban expressways, only a fine will be imposed without demerit points. When motor vehicles pass through intersections controlled by traffic signals and with designated lanes, they must enter the appropriate lane based on their intended direction of travel. For example, if a vehicle going straight enters a left-turn or right-turn lane, electronic surveillance will immediately capture the violation. At intersections with traffic signs or markings, the vehicle with the right of way should proceed first. At intersections without traffic signs or markings, vehicles must stop and observe before entering, yielding to vehicles coming from the right. Turning vehicles must yield to vehicles going straight, and right-turning vehicles must yield to left-turning vehicles coming from the opposite direction. Based on road conditions and traffic needs, roads are divided into motor vehicle lanes, non-motor vehicle lanes, and pedestrian lanes, with motor vehicles, non-motor vehicles, and pedestrians each using their designated lanes. On roads without such divisions, motor vehicles should drive in the middle, while non-motor vehicles and pedestrians should use the sides.

[OAva]

I've encountered situations where drivers don't follow the designated lane markings, like going straight from a left-turn lane, several times. The penalties for this are quite severe. When in a hurry, it's easy to get lazy, but if caught by traffic police, the minimum fine is around 100-200 yuan plus demerit points, usually 2 or 3 points. What's worse is the time wasted—getting stuck during rush hour is especially frustrating. I believe forming good habits is crucial. Before setting off, take a moment to check the navigation instructions and avoid taking shortcuts. In my car, I regularly check the dashboard and mirrors to ensure clear visibility, which helps prevent mistakes. If you do get fined, stay calm on the spot—being cooperative might lead to a reduced penalty, but safety always comes first.

[SkylarMarie]

I once got fined for not following the lane markings, and oh how I regretted it! I was in a hurry to change lanes at the intersection and got caught red-handed by the traffic camera. Three days later, I received a text message notifying me to pay the fine and deduct points. Specifically, the ticket is usually around 200 yuan, with two or three points deducted. That's not even the hassle—you have to pay in installments, and sometimes it takes half a day at the police station. Since then, every time I hit the road, I remind myself to pay more attention to lane signs and slow down to change lanes in advance. I recommend that beginners practice intersection rules more to avoid repeating my mistakes. If the intersection is crowded and chaotic, stop and wait before moving—safety is always more important than saving those few seconds.

[OKevin]

Illegal driving in the guide lane is usually punished with a fine plus penalty points. In cities, enforcement is strict, with fines amounting to several hundred yuan and a deduction of two or three points. Driving like this is very dangerous and can easily lead to scratches or rear-end collisions.