What is the right lane?
4 Answers
The right lane is the slow lane. According to China's traffic regulations, on roads with two or more motor vehicle lanes in the same direction, the right lane is generally the slow lane, while the left lane is usually the fast lane and overtaking lane. On roads with three motor vehicle lanes in the same direction and without other signs or markings, the first lane on the left can be considered the fast lane, and the other lanes are the slow lanes. Motor vehicles driving in the fast lane should travel at the speed specified for the fast lane. If they cannot reach the specified speed, they should drive in the slow lane. Motorcycles should drive in the far-right lane. If there are traffic signs indicating the speed, drivers must follow the indicated speed. When a vehicle in the slow lane needs to overtake the vehicle in front, it may temporarily use the fast lane.
I remember driving for over twenty years, the right lane on most roads is the travel lane or slow lane, specifically for vehicles traveling at normal speeds. On highways, you generally keep to the right, which is the standard practice, leaving the left lane for overtaking or faster vehicles; if the right lane is congested, it's usually because someone is driving at a snail's pace, which can easily cause rear-end collisions. On city streets, the right lane might merge with bike lanes or bus lanes, so during peak hours, be careful not to block the way. A common mistake beginners make is driving too slowly in the right lane, affecting traffic efficiency—safety first. When going on long-distance trips, I pay extra attention to road signs—some exits are specifically set in the right lane, and missing them means taking a long detour. Simply put, using the right lane properly can make driving smoother.
When it comes to driving safety, the right lane is actually a key component in maintaining traffic order. On highways, the right lane is for steady driving, requiring drivers to maintain an appropriate speed without going too far below the speed limit. Overtaking must always be done by switching to the left lane, as passing on the right is dangerous and can easily cause accidents. In everyday driving, beginners often overlook lane discipline, and lingering in the right lane can frustrate drivers behind. Urban environments are more complex—for example, the right lane near crosswalks often prioritizes pedestrian right-of-way. Practical tip: Develop the habit of checking mirrors before changing lanes and avoid crowding the right lane. Overall, this lane is designed to enhance efficiency, and following the rules makes driving smoother and safer.
When I first got my driver's license, I was particularly nervous about the right lane. My instructor said it's just a normal driving position, suitable for maintaining regular speed. On highways, the right lane is for steady driving, while the left is for overtaking. In the city, lanes aren't strictly divided, and the right lane is usually the main flow. Don't overthink it—just drive more and you'll get used to it. For safety, pay attention to road signs. A common issue: new drivers driving too slowly in the right lane and getting honked at by cars behind, reminding them to speed up and match the flow. Overall, it's easy to learn—just take it step by step.
