When can vehicles legally cross double yellow lines?

Vehicles can legally cross double yellow lines under certain specific circumstances, which is why "never" as an answer may not fully capture the nuances of the rules. Double yellow lines indicate that lane changes are generally prohibited, mainly to prevent potentially hazardous situations often caused by two-way traffic on narrow roads. However, there are exceptions where crossing these lines may be permissible, but they typically revolve around specific conditions such as yielding to pedestrians or making U-turns in designated areas.

This means while vehicles can cross double yellow lines in some situations, the safest and most accurate guidance is to avoid crossing them unless necessary and allowed under specific circumstances, such as when directed by road signage or in response to certain traffic conditions. It's essential for drivers to understand the specific traffic laws that apply to double yellow lines to ensure safety and compliance with the law.