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Separation line
The line separates a normal lane from a speed-change lane, kollektivfelt, sambruksfelt, heavy-traffic lane, cycle lane or other lane for special use.
When you see the sign
The separation line marks the boundary between a regular traffic lane and a lane with a specific function, such as a public transport lane, cycle lane or speed-change lane. Check signs and other road markings before crossing the line, and use the lane only if permitted by the traffic rules and signs.
Rules
- The separation line divides a regular traffic lane from a speed-change lane, public transport lane, high-occupancy vehicle lane, heavy-traffic lane, cycle lane or another lane for special use.
- The separation line is not a solid barrier line and therefore does not in itself impose an absolute prohibition on crossing it.
- The right to use the lane on the other side is determined by the lane's function, traffic signs and other traffic rules.
- When entering or leaving a speed-change lane, you must comply with the give-way rules that apply when changing lanes.
Tips
- Look for signs or symbols on the road showing what type of special lane the line marks off.
- Use the entire acceleration lane as needed to adjust your speed before moving into the regular traffic lane.
- Check your mirrors and blind spot, and signal clearly before crossing the separation line.
- Pay particular attention to cyclists if the line marks off a cycle lane.
Common misconceptions
- Assuming that the separation line can always be crossed without considering who is permitted to use the lane.
- Confusing the separation line with a solid barrier line and assuming that driving across it is always prohibited.
- Assuming that a separation line automatically gives the driver in the speed-change lane the right of way when entering the regular traffic lane.
Test yourself
Easy
What does this road marking mean?
- AIt separates lanes that always have opposite directions of travel.
- BIt separates an ordinary lane from a lane for special use.
- CIt prohibits driving across the line between two lanes.
- DIt warns that changing lanes is dangerous.
Medium
You are driving in an acceleration lane marked with this road marking and are going to enter the regular lane. What do you do?
- AI continue in the acceleration lane because the line may not be crossed.
- BI always stop at the line before entering the lane.
- CI change lanes when this can be done without danger or unnecessary obstruction.
- DI enter directly because traffic in the regular lane has vikeplikt (duty to yield).
Hard
You are driving in a regular lane next to a kollektivfelt (public transport lane) marked with this road marking. What determines whether you may cross the line and continue in the kollektivfelt?
- AThe traffic volume alone, because the kollektivfelt can be used when the main lane is full.
- BThe traffic signs and rules that determine who may use the kollektivfelt.
- CThe road marking alone, because it prohibits all vehicles from crossing the line.
- DThe road marking alone, because it gives all vehicles access to the kollektivfelt.
Theory test tip
In the theory test, the trap may be that the line can be crossed, but this does not mean that you can freely continue in the lane on the other side. First determine whether it marks off, for example, a public transport lane, cycle lane or speed-change lane.
Did you know
The separation line is normally wider than a regular lane line. Its width makes it easier to see that the line marks the boundary of a lane with a specific function.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive across a separation line?
Yes, the separation line is not in itself a solid barrier line. However, you must be permitted to use or cross the lane on the other side and follow the rules for changing lanes.
Do I have the right of way when driving from an acceleration lane across the separation line?
No. Entering the regular traffic lane from an acceleration lane is considered a lane change, and you must not obstruct or disrupt traffic in the lane you are entering.
Does a separation line always mean that the lane is a public transport lane?
No. It may also mark off a cycle lane, high-occupancy vehicle lane, heavy-traffic lane or speed-change lane, among others.
What is the difference between a separation line and a regular lane line?
A regular lane line separates ordinary traffic lanes, whereas a separation line marks the boundary between a regular traffic lane and a lane for a specific use. The separation line is normally wider and must be interpreted together with signs, symbols and the road's design.
Practise for the theory test
Teorio has the complete theory syllabus in your own language. Download the app and practise whenever it suits you.
