Will changing lanes by crossing the white line at a traffic light result in penalty points?
2 Answers
Changing lanes by crossing a solid white line at a traffic light intersection is considered a traffic violation and will result in a penalty of three points. Additional information: Article 51 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China" stipulates the following rules for motor vehicles passing through intersections controlled by traffic signals: 1. At intersections with marked guide lanes, enter the guide lane according to the intended direction of travel. 2. Vehicles preparing to enter a roundabout must yield to vehicles already inside the intersection. 3. When turning left, make the turn from the left side of the intersection center point. Turn signals must be used when turning, and low beams must be used at night. 4. When encountering a green light, proceed in order. 5. When encountering a red light, stop in order behind the stop line. If there is no stop line, stop before the intersection. 6. When turning right and encountering a vehicle in the same lane waiting for a green light, stop and wait in order. 7. At intersections without directional signal lights, turning vehicles must yield to straight-moving vehicles and pedestrians. Right-turning vehicles from the opposite direction must yield to left-turning vehicles.
After driving on the road for over a decade, I often see novice drivers crossing the white line to change lanes at traffic lights. This can be captured by traffic cameras at intersections, as traffic rules prohibit randomly crossing lines to switch lanes, especially when waiting at a red light—it will be considered as not driving in the designated lane. Once caught, a 3-point deduction is unavoidable, along with a 200-yuan fine. My buddy got busted just the other day—he thought no one was paying attention at the time, but a few days later, he received a ticket. Safety comes first; crossing lines can easily lead to minor collisions, especially during rush hour. I recommend choosing your lane in advance before the light turns green instead of weaving around at the intersection. If the camera angle is good, it might even record all your movements. Remember, lane changes at intersections should be steady, or you’ll disrupt traffic flow, and police will crack down if they see it.
