Vietnam traffic police propose dedicated median overtaking lane on highways

The Vietnam Traffic Police (CSGT) has proposed designating the lane adjacent to the median—typically the leftmost lane—on multi‑lane highways exclusively for overtaking. The measure aims to reduce the frequency of lane changes, improve traffic flow and lower collision risk on routes that often have only two travel lanes plus an emergency lane.

Vehicles using the overtaking lane must not travel continuously; drivers are required to return to the regular lanes after passing. Enforcement will be based on image and video data from highway surveillance cameras and driver‑recording devices, with violations identified when a vehicle remains in the overtaking lane beyond an overtaking maneuver. The rule applies to all vehicle categories, while new or slower drivers are advised to stay in the right‑hand lanes.

Exceptions are allowed for emergency situations or force‑majeure events. A pilot will be conducted on a suitable northern highway that has at least two to three lanes before the approach is expanded nationwide. The proposal follows practices in developed countries and is intended to make highway travel safer and more efficient.