Dubbed ‘Britain’s most bonkers’ road markings, North Somerset’s infamous wiggly road markings have finally been removed – costing an additional £425,000 on top of the initial £1.357m invested in the seaside regeneration scheme.
Understandably, drivers were perplexed at the bizarre road markings. However, they aren’t the only road markings causing confusion.
The UK has tonnes of uncommon road markings, some region-specific and others which drivers seem to see and hope for the best. It’s important to be aware of these markings to avoid accidents, fines and license points.
New analysis from the AA has found that local authorities generated £127.3m in revenue from bus lane fines, with London accruing the most of this revenue at £48.5m. It’s not just bus lanes catching road users out either, failing to comply with any white line road marking rule (section 36 of the Road Traffic Act 1988) can land motorists with a £1,000 fine and three points on their licence.
Have you ever seen any unfamiliar road markings that have tripped you up? Whether you’re a Sunday driver or a convoy veteran, test your knowledge before you next get behind the wheel.
Here, the road surfacing experts at Instarmac take a look at some of the most misunderstood road markings in the UK.
Hazard warning lines
If you think these are your standard centre lines, you’d be wrong. Hazard lines differ in that the painted sections are longer in length than the unpainted gaps between them.
These lines warn road users of a hazard which isn’t immediately clear. You’re most likely to encounter hazard lines when approaching a central refuge, a junction or other unclear hazard.
Take hazard lines as an indicator to be more vigilant on the road, anticipating a sudden change which may otherwise catch you off-guard.
Double white line, nearest broken
Double white lines have different rules linked to them depending on which side you’re on. Characterised by one thick line and one parallel broken line, these lines mean you should pay close attention to which is on your side of the road.
If the nearest line to you is broken, rule 128 of the Highway Code states that you may overtake traffic ahead if it is safe. The solid white line is to be used as a guide – you must be able to overtake the car before the solid line is on your side of the road.
Double white line, nearest solid
In the much-anticipated sequel to rule 128, rule 129 of the Highway Code states that you must not cross over or straddle the solid white line unless it is safe. If you do so, you must enter adjoining premises or a side road.
Other contextual overtaking is allowed here, such as overtaking a cyclist, horse, a maintenance vehicle that is travelling at a speed of 10mph, or a parked car.
Coloured cats’ eyes
Cat’s eyes communicate different road rules depending on their colour – it isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- White/warm white: denotes a lane division, acting as a centre road marking.
- Red/amber: denotes a restriction – you cannot cross these markings under any circumstance.
- Green: Denotes the ability to cross, most common in slip roads and lay-bys.
Double yellow kerb markings
Have you ever noticed double yellows that slip over the kerb and touch the pavement? Mistaken by some as a sloppy paint job, these markings actually denote that it is illegal to unload or load in the marked area.
However, it is legal to drop off or pick up passengers, as long as you aren’t hanging around. This is handy to remember in busy town centres and cities.
Red lines
Given the colour language of hazard warnings, signs and road markings – you’d be forgiven for thinking red road markings dictate a severe warning or hazard.
Not to worry, red lines act the same as yellow lines, only red lines are used in certain cities, such as London. A red line represents a simple parking restriction and will be accompanied by times clarifying when waiting is allowed. If there are double red lines, parking is always prohibited in this space.
Richard Moss, Head of Civils at Instarmac, has this to say about these unusual road markings, “It never hurts to brush up on your driving knowledge, especially if you are going on a staycation or road trip. Some of these markings are almost exclusive to big cities or country roads, so it’s not a surprise that those of us from towns scratch our heads every once in a while!”
