What is the standard width of traffic lanes on a freeway?

The standard width of traffic lanes on a freeway is typically 12 feet. This dimension is designed to accommodate the wide range of vehicles that use the freeway, including larger vehicles like trucks and buses, while providing enough space for safe maneuvering. A lane width of 12 feet also helps to improve traffic flow and reduce the risk of accidents, as it allows for greater distance between vehicles and provides drivers with a comfortable amount of space to make lane changes.

In contrast, narrower lanes might be appropriate in different contexts, such as residential streets or certain urban areas where space is limited, but they are generally not used on freeways due to safety and operational efficiency concerns. Thus, recognizing the standard lane width is essential for understanding freeway design and driving practices.