Road Markings
There’s a bewildering array of road markings & lines along the road. Throw this in with everything else you need to take in as a new driver and you’re going to have your hands full.
Many roads have white lines along them. They either mark the number of lanes, or separate the two halves of the road. Sometimes, that centre line may change to longer lines with shorter gaps. These are hazard warning lines. Be on the lookout for a junction, traffic lights, or some other hazard which may cause you to slow down.
Double White Lines along the Road
There are places where you will see double white lines along the centre of the road. These are in place to restrict overtaking in areas where this would be especially hazardous.
When the line nearest to you is broken, you can cross them to overtake if it’s safe. When the line nearest to you is solid, then you must not cross them to overtake. There is an exception to this. You can pass a vehicle which is travelling very slowly at 10mph or less. You can also cross a solid white line in order to pass a stationary obstruction, or to make a right turn at a junction.
Also, you should not park at the side of the road when there are double white lines along the centre. This is regardless of whether the one nearest to you is broken.
Hatched Markings
Hatched markings are areas of white stripes painted across the road. Their function is to separate streams of traffic. Particularly those approaching from opposite directions. In places where a traffic island would not be appropriate, the markings act as a virtual island to keep drivers apart. You may sometimes see these in conjunction with a central red surfaced area. This however, does not change the meaning of the markings.
Can you drive through hatched markings?
It depends on the design. Where an area has a solid white border, then you MUST not enter it unless in an emergency. With a broken border however, may drive through the markings providing you can see that is it safe to do so.
Coloured Road Markings & Lines Along the Road
- A single yellow line along the edge of the road means no waiting during the times shown on signposts (except when loading or unloading)
- Double yellow lines mean no waiting at any time (except when loading or unloading)
- A single red line means no stopping during times shown
- A double red line means no stopping at any time
For more information about traffic signs and road markings, read Traffic Signs & Road Markings. This informative book will not only teach you what signs mean, but also shows the situations in which you will find them.