Comprehensive Guide to Pavement Markings: Types & Colors

Understanding Pavement Markings: Essential Types and Functions

Pavement markings are crucial for guiding vehicular movement and ensuring road safety. They are categorized based on their placement and function. Here’s an in-depth look at the seven primary types of pavement markings:

1. Longitudinal Markings (LM)

Longitudinal markings are positioned along the direction of traffic. These include:

• Broken Lines (LM01)
• Single Continuous Lines (LM02)
• Double Continuous Lines (LM03)

Purpose:

• Navigational Aid: Helps drivers stay within their lanes and avoid collisions.
• Overtaking Restrictions: Indicates areas where overtaking is prohibited, especially in hazardous zones.
• Urban Traffic Management: In congested areas, double lines and raised medians improve traffic flow and safety.

Key Tip: Yellow continuous lines signify strict no-crossing zones.

2. Transverse Markings (TM)

Transverse markings cross the roadway and are used for traffic control. Examples include:

• Stop Markings (TM01)
• Give Way Markings (TM02)

Purpose:

• Traffic Control: Ensures compliance at intersections and pedestrian crossings.
• Accident Prevention: Proper installation and maintenance are crucial for effective traffic management.

Note: Transverse markings should always be paired with corresponding road signs.

3. Hazard Markings (HM)

Hazard markings alert drivers to potential dangers. These include:

• Chevron Markings (HM01)
• Diagonal Markings (HM02)
• Hatch Markings (HM03)

Purpose:

• Safety Warning: Indicates areas where drivers should be cautious, such as merging lanes or sharp turns.
• Traffic Deflection: Helps in managing traffic flow around hazardous zones.

Reminder: Hazard markings should be visible and accompanied by appropriate signage.

4. Block Markings (BM)

Block markings are used for specific road features and pedestrian areas:

• Zebra Crossings (BM01)
• Speed Breaker Symbols (BM02)
• Give Way Symbols (BM03)

Purpose:

• Pedestrian Safety: Ensures clear visibility for crossings and other key areas.
• Speed Management: Identifies areas for speed reduction.

Quality Note: Use thermoplastic paint for durability and visibility.

5. Arrow Markings (AM)

Arrow markings guide drivers on mandatory directions:

• Direction Arrows (AM01)
• Turn Arrows (AM02)

Purpose:

• Directional Guidance: Directs traffic flow and lane changes.

6. Directional Markings (DM)

Directional markings provide text-based instructions:

• Instructional Messages (DM01)
• Signage Directions (DM02)

Purpose:

• Clear Communication: Ensures drivers understand road rules and directions.

7. Facility Markings (FM)

Facility markings designate specific road features:

• Parking Spaces (FM01)
• Bus Lanes (FM02)
• Cyclist and Disabled Spaces (FM03)

Purpose:

• Dedicated Areas: Designates parking and special zones for ease of use.

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