When you may cross a solid centre line
How to interpret a solid centre line and avoid illegal crossing or overtaking.
A solid centre line is a clear signal that the road is not suitable for crossing or overtaking at that point. Many mistakes happen because the driver judges their own overview as better than what the road marking is designed for.
What you need to know
- The solid line is there to protect against places with poor margins or visibility.
- You must read the solid line together with signs, road edge and the surrounding situation.
- The fact that the road looks empty right now does not mean crossing is safe or legal.
Typical situations
| Situation | What you should do | Common mistake |
|---|---|---|
| Two-lane rural road with a solid line | Stay in your own lane and plan early if you need to turn later. | Treating the line as advice instead of a rule. |
| Solid line before a crest or bend | Accept the restriction even if you do not see traffic at that moment. | Thinking a short overtake will be fine. |
| Temporary road works with yellow markings | Follow the temporary solid line instead of the old white line. | Looking only for the permanent markings in the road. |
Common mistakes
- Treating your own overview as more important than the road markings.
- Crossing the solid line because the vehicle ahead is slow.
- Overlooking that temporary markings may take priority.
How to practice
Read this together with Yield and priority signs , Yellow lines and temporary road markings and Overtaking and lane changes .