Will Changing Lanes Over a Solid Line Definitely Be Captured by Cameras?
2 Answers
When a vehicle changes lanes over a solid line at an intersection, it is highly likely to be captured by cameras due to their frequent shooting intervals. Changing lanes over a solid line is a traffic violation that involves disobeying prohibitory signs, punishable by a three-point deduction and a fine. Continuous lane changes can be determined by the vehicle's turn signals. For example, a vehicle will activate its turn signal in advance before changing lanes, indicating the direction of the intended lane change. After signaling, the driver must check the opposite lane and rear vehicles before proceeding with the lane change. Speed reduction markings are divided into longitudinal deceleration lines and transverse deceleration lines, typically placed near toll booths, exit ramps, or other areas requiring vehicles to slow down, marked with white dashed lines. Longitudinal deceleration lines usually consist of a series of diamond-shaped dashed lines parallel to the lane dividers, commonly found on bridges, turns, or other locations. Their primary purpose is to create a visual narrowing effect, inducing a sense of pressure that prompts drivers to slow down automatically in designated areas. The photo enforcement system for changing lanes over a solid line uses ground-pressure magnetic induction loops. The principle of photo capture is as follows: when the front wheels of a vehicle pass over the induction loop on the ground, the first photo is taken electronically; when the rear wheels pass over the induction loop, the second photo is taken; and when the vehicle crosses the intersection and passes over the induction loop on the opposite side, the third photo is taken. The system for capturing lane changes over solid lines operates 24/7, and the images and related data are retained for one week. Minor violations of changing lanes over solid lines that do not result in major safety incidents are usually not captured. Temporary license plates used on new vehicles, due to material issues, are often difficult to capture clearly by electronic enforcement systems.
As a veteran driver with seven or eight years of experience, I have to say that changing lanes over a solid line isn't 100% guaranteed to be caught on camera, but betting on those odds is really not worth it. There are several types of electronic surveillance on the road: those spherical cameras with fill lights are specifically for catching violations—if you cross the line, they will definitely flash at you; regular surveillance cameras might also manually review footage. The key issue is that some road sections have new equipment installed without any signage, and you only realize it when the ticket arrives. Last week, I was in a hurry to drop my kid off at school and crossed a solid line to overtake a delivery van—three days later, a penalty notice popped up on the 12123 app. Nowadays, traffic cameras can even recognize the color of your license plate. It's really not worth the risk; the safest bet is to wait until you pass a dashed line before changing lanes. After all, a 200-yuan fine is minor compared to the hassle of scraping the car next to you.
