The Traffic Police Department (Cuc Canh sat giao thong) recently proposed that the Vietnam Road Administration (Cuc Duong bo Viet Nam) collaborate on reorganizing traffic on several expressways and national routes. The goal is to enhance safety, reduce congestion, and improve infrastructure utilization.
Left lane on expressways for overtaking only
Under the proposal, the lane adjacent to the median strip, specifically lane one, on certain expressways will be designated as a dedicated overtaking lane. Drivers will only be permitted to use this lane when necessary to pass a vehicle ahead. After completing the overtake and ensuring a safe distance, vehicles must return to the right lane. Continuous travel in the overtaking lane is prohibited if the right lanes are open.
The two expressways proposed for this pilot program are Hanoi - Hai Phong and Cau Gie - Cao Bo, specifically the Cau Gie - Ninh Binh section. For the Cau Gie - Ninh Binh expressway, a reduction in the maximum operating speed to 100 km/h is also suggested.
According to the Traffic Police Department, establishing a dedicated overtaking lane aims to prevent vehicles from prolonged travel in the left lane and to facilitate safer overtaking maneuvers for drivers.
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Traffic flow on the Phap Van - Cau Gie expressway during the 30/4 holiday. Photo: Viet An
No using oncoming lanes for overtaking
The Traffic Police Department has requested a review and reorganization of traffic in high-risk sections along National Route 6. At critical points, continuous solid lines may be combined with flexible median barriers to deter vehicles from crossing into oncoming traffic lanes.
Specifically, vehicles are strictly prohibited from using oncoming lanes to overtake. Overtaking maneuvers are only permitted in sections meeting safety criteria or where a dedicated overtaking lane is provided.
AI cameras to monitor overtaking lanes
The Traffic Police Department also proposed adding lane division signs and electronic variable message signs (VMS) with the warning: "Dedicated Overtaking Lane - Do Not Drive Continuously in Left Lane". AI cameras will be upgraded to record vehicle movements in the overtaking lane, which will support enforcement and automated penalty issuance.
The trial period is expected to begin in Q4/2026. After three months, the Traffic Police Department and the Vietnam Road Administration will assess its effectiveness and impact on traffic, subsequently proposing any necessary amendments or additions to related regulations.
Pham Hai
