In California, a divided highway is a road that has been split into at least two adjacent roadways through a separating mechanism. The minimum separation between the roads is 2 feet.
In some cases, divided highways are built as two adjacent roads that are physically separated by an unpaved section. Pavement markings, such as double lines, can also be used to create divided highways.
Drivers must obey the traffic laws that govern divided highways. On these roads, vehicles may only make turns at designated openings. Significant penalties that include up to six months in jail can be given to drivers who illegally cross a divided highway and cause an accident involving personal injury or death.
