Special Traffic Rules and Precautions in China

Understanding local traffic rules is crucial when traveling in China. Below are some key points you need to pay special attention to:

1. Basic Traffic Rules

1. Driving on the Right Side
2. In China, the drive-on-the-right rule applies (opposite to countries like the UK, Japan, and Australia), including cars, bicycles, and pedestrians.

3. When crossing the street: Look left for oncoming vehicles first, then look right. At some intersections, left-turning vehicles may not stop at red lights (but must yield to pedestrians), so extra caution is required.

4. Traffic Signals and Signs

5. Right turns on red: In most cases, turning right on red is allowed, but you must yield to pedestrians and through traffic (check specific intersection signs).
6. Pedestrian signals: Cross only when the light is green, but be aware that some electric bikes or bicycles may not follow the rules.

2. Electric Bicycles and Bicycle Lanes

1. Electric Bicycle Lanes
2. Most Chinese cities have designated non-motorized vehicle lanes (often marked with red or green lines) for electric bikes and bicycles; pedestrians should not use these lanes.

3. Precautions:

   • Electric bikes can travel fast (some reach 25-40 km/h) and may drive against traffic or change lanes suddenly. Avoid walking in non-motorized vehicle lanes.
   • In some cities (like Beijing and Shanghai), the non-motorized vehicle lane may share space with sidewalks, so watch for ground markings.

4. Shared Bicycles Usage

5. Shared bicycles (such as Meituan and Hellobike) must be parked in designated areas, or fines may apply.

3. Pedestrian Precautions

1. Crossing the Street Habits
2. Priority at crosswalks: Theoretically, pedestrians have priority, but some drivers may not yield voluntarily. Confirm safety before crossing quickly.

3. "Chinese-style crossing": Some pedestrians may group together and cross on red lights. As a tourist, please strictly follow the signals.

4. Sidewalks and Overpasses/Underpasses

5. On main roads (e.g., Chang'an Avenue in Beijing), direct street crossings may be prohibited, requiring the use of overpasses or underpasses.

4. Driving and Car Rentals

1. International Driver's License Restrictions

2. China does not recognize international driver's licenses (IDP). You must obtain a temporary driver's license upon arrival (bring your home country license, passport, and a certified translation).

3. Highway Rules

4. Speed limits are generally 120 km/h, and speeding penalties are enforced strictly.

5. Toll booths often support ETC systems, while cash or mobile payments are available at manual windows.

6. Drunk Driving Penalties

7. The standard for drunk driving is blood alcohol content ≥20mg/100ml. Penalties include fines, license revocation, or even criminal liability.

5. Special Public Transport Rules

1. Metro Security Checks

2. All metro entrances require luggage security checks, and liquids may be separately inspected.

3. Bus Boarding and Alighting

4. In some cities (e.g., Beijing), you must tap your card both when boarding and alighting; otherwise, full fare will be charged.

5. High-Speed Rail Real Name System

6. Bring the original ID used for ticket purchase (passport) and arrive at least one hour early for verification.

6. Special Scenario Precautions

1. Taxis/Ride-Sharing Services
2. Rear-seat passengers must also wear seat belts (mandatory in some cities).

3. When using apps like Didi, set the interface to English and bind an international credit card.

4. Horn Usage Habits

5. Some drivers frequently honk in congested areas; this is common, so don't panic.

6. Nighttime Cycling Safety

7. Some electric bikes lack headlights at night. Wear reflective clothing or carry a flashlight for safety.

7. Emergency Handling

• Traffic Accidents: Call 122 immediately to report, and dial 120 if medical assistance is needed.
• Language Barriers: Seek help from hotel front desks or use translation apps (such as Google Translate or Tencent Translation).