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What is Pavement Markings?

Pavement markings use lines, words, and symbols on the road surface to guide traffic and make roadway instructions easier to follow.

Definition

Pavement markings are painted lines, symbols, and words placed directly on the road to guide drivers, including lane lines, stop bars, crosswalks, arrows, and written messages. Unlike signs mounted beside or above the roadway, these markings put the instruction where drivers are already looking and can include reflective materials or raised markers for better visibility.

Purpose

Markings help drivers read the road as they move through it. At an intersection, they can show where to stop. On a multilane road, they separate traffic and help drivers stay in the correct lane. Arrows and other markings also indicate permitted movements before a driver reaches a turn, merge, or crossing. Used alongside signs and signals, they make traffic patterns easier to understand.

Examples of Use

  • Lane Lines: Mark individual lanes for traffic moving in the same direction.
  • Center Lines: Separate opposing traffic on two-way roads.
  • Crosswalks and Stop Lines: Show pedestrian crossing areas and where vehicles are expected to stop.
  • Words and Symbols: Use arrows, ONLY, SCHOOL, and other pavement messages to give drivers added direction.

Notes

  • White and yellow are the main colors used for longitudinal markings, with meaning depending on placement and traffic direction.
  • Markings can become harder to see because of wear, standing water, snow, debris, or poor contrast with the pavement.
  • Service life depends on the marking material, traffic levels, weather, and where the marking sits on the roadway.

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