What kind of marking is the yellow dotted line?
2 Answers
Road center yellow dotted line belongs to the indication marking. The yellow dotted line in the center of the road is used to separate opposing traffic flows, so it is classified as an indication marking. Driving over the yellow dotted line constitutes a violation of the prohibition marking instructions. For example, making a U-turn in a no-U-turn section or performing a left turn where left turns are prohibited are both violations of the prohibition marking instructions. Below is an introduction to the relevant penalty regulations: 1. Deduction of 2 points: Driving a motor vehicle on highways or urban expressways without wearing a seatbelt; when passing through signal-controlled intersections, not entering the guiding lane according to the direction of travel; passenger vehicles exceeding the approved number of passengers by less than 20%; when encountering queued or slow-moving vehicles ahead, overtaking by borrowing the opposite lane or cutting into the waiting queue; making or receiving phone calls while driving. 2. Deduction of 3 points: Driving a motor vehicle through a pedestrian crossing without slowing down, stopping, or yielding to pedestrians as required; overtaking on highway ramps. Failing to drive according to the prohibition marking instructions; turning motor vehicles failing to yield to straight-going vehicles or pedestrians; right-turning motor vehicles from the opposite direction failing to yield to left-turning vehicles; driving on highways or urban expressways not according to the prescribed lanes; exceeding the speed limit by less than 50%; failing to yield to emergency vehicles performing urgent tasks as required; illegal overtaking or driving in the opposite direction on urban roads.
I've been driving for over a decade and have seen plenty of yellow dashed lines on the road, which typically indicate the center line separating two-way traffic. The yellow dashed line means you're allowed to overtake or change lanes when it's safe, but you should watch out for oncoming vehicles. I remember once on a national highway, there was a section with yellow dashed lines where I seized the opportunity to overtake, only to nearly collide with an oncoming truck—a reminder to everyone not to be careless. Yellow is more noticeable than white, especially in foggy conditions or rainy nights, making it easier to spot approaching vehicles. This type of road marking is quite reasonable, offering flexibility while emphasizing safety, but the key is to assess the actual situation. If the road section is hazardous, drivers should stay cautious and avoid crossing the line recklessly. Paying attention to changes in road markings during regular driving can prevent many accidents.
