What is the speed limit for the leftmost lane?
4 Answers
If there are two lanes in the same direction, the minimum speed limit for the left lane is 100 kilometers per hour; if there are three or more lanes in the same direction, the minimum speed limit for the leftmost lane is 110 kilometers per hour. Additional information: 1. Article 67 of the Road Traffic Safety Law stipulates: Pedestrians, non-motorized vehicles, tractors, wheeled special mechanical vehicles, articulated buses, full-trailer trucks, and other motor vehicles with a maximum design speed of less than 70 kilometers per hour are not allowed to enter expressways. The maximum speed limit indicated by expressway speed limit signs must not exceed 120 kilometers per hour. 2. Article 78 of the Road Traffic Safety Law stipulates: Expressways must indicate the driving speed of lanes, with the maximum speed not exceeding 120 kilometers per hour and the minimum speed not less than 60 kilometers per hour.
The speed limit on the leftmost lane is usually 120 km/h, but this is not absolutely fixed. Anyone who has driven on Chinese highways knows that the left lane is designed as an overtaking lane and should not be occupied for long periods; it's only for fast vehicles passing slower ones. In actual driving, I adjust my speed according to road signs, such as reducing to 100 or 80 km/h when passing through tunnels or in rainy or foggy conditions to ensure safety. Additionally, different sections may have different limits: sometimes national highways have a limit of 100 km/h, while urban expressways are 80 km/h, so it's best to check the posted signs. Traffic volume also has a big impact—during congestion, everyone slows down, so don’t risk speeding just to go faster. Safety comes first, and driving becomes more effortless once you’re familiar with the rules.
I often drive on highways where the leftmost lane typically has a speed limit of 120 km/h, but in practice, many drivers exceed this limit and drive much faster. Based on my experience, it's easy to be tempted to speed beyond 130 km/h on open stretches, but this is illegal—getting a ticket would outweigh any benefit. The left lane is designed for overtaking; after passing, you should promptly return to the middle lane to avoid frustrating drivers behind you and reduce the risk of collisions. New drivers should avoid the fast lane initially and start by getting comfortable with the car at moderate speeds. Safe driving is more important—maintaining a controlled speed can help prevent fatigue-related accidents. In foggy conditions or at night, it's best to reduce speed to under 100 km/h and use proper lighting for a safer journey.
From a safety perspective, the 120 km/h speed limit on the leftmost lane of the highway is scientifically justified, considering braking distance and reaction time. I believe speeding is extremely dangerous, especially on curves or slippery roads, where the risk of losing control increases significantly. Drivers should strictly adhere to speed limits, using the left lane only for quick overtaking and promptly returning to other lanes afterward. Many highway accidents are caused by excessive speed, and controlling speed can reduce casualties. Don't follow others in speeding; arriving home safely is what truly matters.
