What is the use of the emergency lane on highways?
4 Answers
Highway emergency lanes are only for emergency vehicles, including police cars, fire trucks, ambulances, and engineering rescue vehicles when performing emergency tasks. Other vehicles are prohibited from stopping or driving on the emergency lane under non-emergency conditions. Two lanes: The so-called two-speed lanes on highways refer to two lanes in the same direction. The speed range for the right lane is 60 to 100 kilometers per hour, while the left lane's speed range is 100 to 120 kilometers per hour. Three lanes: Three-speed lanes refer to three lanes in the same direction. The speed range for the far-right lane is 60 to 90 kilometers per hour, the middle lane is 90 to 110 kilometers per hour, and the far-left lane is 110 to 120 kilometers per hour. The left lane is the overtaking lane, hence the higher speed limit.
After driving on the highway for so many years, I always feel that the emergency lane is a lifeline, only to be used when your car breaks down, is involved in an accident, or there is a medical emergency. Don't just use it during regular traffic jams—it's extremely dangerous. Remember to turn on your hazard lights immediately and place the warning triangle 50 to 100 meters behind your car so that vehicles behind can see it from afar and avoid rear-end collisions. On the highway, speeds are high, and a small mistake can lead to a major accident. I've seen people use the emergency lane to save time, only to cause serious consequences—ranging from fines and penalty points to triggering chain collisions. It's best to call the police or contact a rescue team first and not stay there for long. Safety should always come first. This lane is designed to save lives, so it must be used according to the rules to ensure safety.
As a parent who frequently takes long-distance trips with children, I believe the rules regarding emergency lanes are quite important. They should only be used in genuine emergencies such as vehicle breakdowns, accidents, or sudden illness—never for overtaking or saving time. On highways where speeds are high, improper use of these lanes can block ambulance access and create significant hazards. We should cultivate good habits: immediately activate hazard lights when stopping for trouble and place warning triangles at a sufficient distance behind the vehicle. This not only protects ourselves but also helps other drivers avoid danger. Traffic laws impose strict penalties for misuse, including fines. Ultimately, safe driving fundamentally relies on adhering to basic regulations—practical actions start with small details.
The emergency lane is reserved for genuine emergencies, such as a flat tire or vehicle breakdown. Never use it otherwise to avoid causing traffic congestion. When stopped, immediately turn on your hazard lights and place the warning triangle at least 50 meters behind your vehicle. Highways are prone to accidents, so don't take it lightly. I once experienced a breakdown and handled it this way to stay safe—everyone should remember this. Following these simple rules and avoiding violations can save you a lot of trouble.
