Will motorcyclists be penalized for using the emergency lane?
2 Answers
Motorcycles are not allowed to use the emergency lane during normal driving and should travel in the outermost lane of the highway. Below is a detailed introduction regarding the emergency lane on highways: 1. The emergency lane is reserved for emergency vehicles. For instance, if a vehicle experiences sudden illness, a flat tire, brake failure, or runs out of fuel, making it impossible to continue driving, it may stop in the emergency lane. Emergency vehicles on duty may pass quickly through the emergency lane. No vehicles are permitted to occupy the emergency lane. If caught by traffic cameras or on-site by traffic police, violators will be penalized according to traffic regulations. 2. Motorcycles must meet the following requirements to drive on highways: (1) The speed of the motorcycle must not be less than 60 km/h and must not exceed 80 km/h. (2) Motorcycles on highways must not carry passengers, and the driver must wear a helmet. (3) According to the speed limits of different lanes on highways, motorcycles should travel in the outermost lane. (4) Except during holidays designated by the State Council for toll-free passage, motorcycles are subject to the toll standards applicable to passenger vehicles with fewer than 7 seats at other times.
I used to commute by motorcycle for several years. I remember one time when the traffic was extremely congested, and I saw the emergency lane was empty, so I rode on it to save time. But not long after, I was caught by a traffic officer. That day, I got 6 penalty points and a fine of 200 yuan, and my license was almost revoked—it was really unlucky. Looking back now, the emergency lane is not for ordinary motorcycles; it’s only for fire trucks or vehicles in real emergencies. That’s what the law says—whether it’s a car or a motorcycle, using it illegally will result in penalty points and fines. Nowadays, whenever I meet up with my riding buddies, I always remind them not to make the same stupid mistake I did. Taking the emergency lane might seem like a time-saver, but if an accident happens or emergency vehicles can’t get through, the consequences could be much worse. It’s safer to just stick to the regular lanes.
