What is the fine for overtaking on double white lines?

Motorist have many signs and road markings to deal with, but while most are well-known and understood, double white lines in the road can still cause a dangerous sense of confusion among many some drivers using UK roads.

Here we look at what double white lines mean and how motorists should driver when they encounter them on the road.

What do double white lines like these actually mean? And how they could get you a £1,000 fine (Credit: As stated on image)

What are double white lines?

There are two main types of double white lines that motorists are likely to come across when out driving on the road. The two types are as follows.

Double white lines with one solid line and one broken line: This type of double white line means you can overtake – when it is safe to do so – if the broken white line is on your side of the road. You must complete the overtake before reaching any section of solid double white lines in the centre of the road – look out for arrows on the road telling you to get back on your side of the road.

Vehicles travelling on the other side of the road, with the solid white line closest to them, must not overtake while the line persists. There are some exemptions to this rule, which we explain further

Double white lines that are both solid: These lines mean that you should remain in your line and not overtake throughout their duration. However, as mentioned above, there are occasions when you can cross the solid white lines and move onto the other lane. See further down the page for information.

When can you cross a solid double white line in the road?

While double white lines in hr middle of the road mean that vehicles cannot cross into the adjacent lane when one or both are solid, there are circumstances when this rule does not apply.

Drivers may cross double white lines, when the one on their side of the road, or both, are solid if passing a stationary vehicle, or overtaking a pedal cycle, horse or road maintenance vehicle that is travelling at less than 10mph. Drivers can also cross the lines if they are turning into a property or side road when it is safe to do so.

As mentioned previously, motorists can also cross when the white line closest to them is broken, when safe to do so.

What does the Highway Code say about double white lines?

Section 129 the Highway Code says the following with regard to white lines.

Double white lines where the line nearest you is solid.

This means you MUST NOT cross or straddle it unless it is safe and you need to enter adjoining premises or a side road.

You may cross the line if necessary, provided the road is clear, to pass a stationary vehicle, or overtake a pedal cycle, horse or road maintenance vehicle, if they are travelling at 10 mph (16 km/h) or less.

Section 128 the Highway Code says:

Double white lines where the line nearest to you is broken.

This means you may cross the lines to overtake if it is safe, provided you can complete the manoeuvre before reaching a solid white line on your side.

At-a-glance guide to double white lines

Type of double white line	What it means?	When can I cross the white lines?
Broken white line closest to you, and solid white line on opposite side	If the broken white line is on your side, you may overtake	When it is safe to do so
Solid white line closest to you, and broken white line and solid broken line on opposite side	You may not cross the white line unless for reasons stated, right	You may cross the solid white lines to overtake a stationary vehicle, or overtake a pedal cycle, horse or road maintenance vehicle travelling at less than 10mph. You may also do so if turning into a property or side road when it is safe to do so
Double solid line	You must not cross the double white lines unless for reasons stated, right	You may cross the solid white lines to overtake a stationary vehicle or one travelling at less than 10mph. You may also do so if turning into a property or side road when it is safe to do so

 

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