What is the penalty standard for making a U-turn over a yellow line?
3 Answers
Driving over a single yellow line typically results in a traffic penalty of a fine and 3 demerit points. Here are the relevant details: 1. Crossing a yellow line: This constitutes a traffic violation. Yellow lines are categorized into single yellow lines and double yellow lines, neither of which allows vehicles to cross or drive over. If violated and recorded by traffic police or cameras, the penalty is usually a fine and 3 demerit points. There is also a yellow dashed line, which permits crossing and U-turns provided it does not interfere with vehicles in the opposite lane. 2. Line-crossing violation: The formal term is "violation of no-crossing line instructions." According to Article 38 (first offense) of the Road Traffic Safety Law, the penalty is based on Article 90 of the same law and Article 34, Section 4 of its implementation regulations, resulting in 3 demerit points.
I've been driving for years, and I remember once making a U-turn over a yellow line in the city, only to be caught by a camera and fined 200 yuan with 3 points deducted—it really hurt. This standard is fixed; according to traffic regulations, making a U-turn over a solid line results in a 200-yuan fine and 3-point deduction, mainly because the yellow line is a no-crossing marker. Especially at intersections, making a U-turn over the line can easily lead to rear-end or side collisions. Don’t take chances—nowadays, electronic eyes are everywhere, and any violation will be caught. Following the rules isn’t just about saving money; it’s about safety—I’ve seen plenty of drivers rushing to make U-turns over lines end up in the hospital after accidents. My advice is to develop the habit of checking the area before making a U-turn, finding a dashed line or a permitted U-turn zone before acting. Don’t seek trouble for momentary convenience. Also, pay attention to navigation prompts to reduce unnecessary risks.
As a new driver who just got my license, I'm particularly nervous about these rules. After checking the traffic regulations, I found that making a U-turn over a yellow line carries a harsh penalty—a direct fine of 200 yuan plus 3 demerit points. This is because the yellow line acts like a dividing wall on the road, and crossing it to make a U-turn increases the risk of head-on collisions. The traffic authorities set this rule to protect both drivers and pedestrians. During my driving lessons, my instructor repeatedly emphasized that when making a U-turn, you must stop outside the solid line first to observe and avoid crossing it. A friend of mine got a ticket for this—they were caught by an electronic eye and received a notice a few days later, which also delayed their driver's license review. Honestly, when driving, it's not about speed but stability. Following the rules can save you from unnecessary fines and stress. Developing good habits can also prevent minor scrapes.
