#071 Solid White Traffic Lines

There are many rules to follow while driving, but something that has been particularly bothering me lately is the fact the people seem to forget them. Take for example the solid white lines dividing lanes of traffic:

When these solid white lines are on the side of the road they imply "do not cross over". And (wouldn't you know it!) when they divide lanes of traffic they ALSO indicate "do not cross over". Generally you see solid white lines dividing lanes of traffic in a construction zone, or when several lanes traveling in the same direction narrow going through a particularly narrow roadway or crossing over a bridge.

There are a few interstates in my area that come to mind where I see this happening all the time. Tens of thousands of motorists travel these interstates daily and each day I see the same thing happening: people switching lanes (also without signaling) and crossing over a solid white line. The lines are there for a reason! The department of transportation has deemed that stretch of roadway unsafe for lane changes, hence the solid white lines on the ground.

If I am driving in the lane next to another driver, I am NOT going to attempt to switch lanes by crossing over a solid white line, and I shouldn't have to worry about someone trying to get into my lane, either. Unfortunately people are stupid and will do whatever they want whenever they want, and there are never any police officers around when you need them to ticket law-breakers.