Types of Road Markings and Their Functions

Road markings or traffic signs play an important role on the road. They usually come in various shapes, including horizontal, vertical, longitudinal, and diagonal.
However, do you know the meaning and function of these lines? If not, you can pay close attention to the following discussion.
Types of Road Markings and Their Functions
There are several types of road markings, and their colors can be white or yellow. Below, a complete explanation of the function of each type will be provided. So, remember well so you can apply them correctly while driving.
Solid Longitudinal Line
When there is a solid longitudinal marking in the form of a straight line in the middle or edge of the road. If it is in the middle, it serves as a divider for vehicle lanes. Meanwhile, the one on the edge indicates the boundary of the road.
If the straight line is white, it indicates that drivers must stay in their respective lanes. Therefore, you should not overtake other drivers.
Broken Longitudinal Line
If the line in the middle of the road is not solid but broken, then you can overtake other drivers. However, you must consider the situation and conditions first.
For example, if there is a traffic jam, it is better not to force yourself to overtake. So, you should be more patient or take another route that is expected not to be congested.
Double Solid and Broken Longitudinal Lines
If there are double lines, one solid and the other broken, it means two things. First, you can switch lanes to one side if you are on the broken line.
Meanwhile, the second meaning is that you cannot cross the double lines or switch lanes. This applies if you are on the solid white line. So, do not misunderstand it.
Solid Double Longitudinal Line
The function of this road marking is that both opposing lanes are not allowed to overtake other drivers. Usually, solid double lines are used for main intercity routes. This way, vehicles can be more orderly.
Transverse Road Markings
This type of marking is perpendicular to the road axis. For example, the lines at the zebra cross stop. Transverse markings have several sub-parts, including:
- Stop lines for two-way intersections.
- Stop lines at one-way intersections.
- Stop lines for one-way intersections but with two lanes.
- Stop lines at zebra crossings or pedestrian crossings.
- Broken Yellow Lines at the Edge of the Road
The use of yellow lines in Indonesia is very rarely applied. However, you also need to know about it. The broken yellow line at the edge indicates that drivers are allowed to overtake.
So, you can overtake from that edge. However, you still need to pay attention to the conditions of other drivers, especially those coming from the opposite direction.
Solid Yellow Line
If you find a solid yellow line in the middle of the road, it means you are allowed to overtake other vehicles. On the condition that you must not exceed the boundary of that yellow line.
Yellow Box Junction
This lane has been implemented in several cities in Indonesia. Among them are Jakarta and Bandung, which are prone to traffic jams. It is shaped like boxes and is used for road intersections.
Thus, the function of the YBJ is to ensure that the intersection lane is not blocked. If the condition is very congested, then your vehicle must be in the yellow box line.
Follow Road Markings with Daihatsu!
Make sure to apply and comply with the applicable traffic signs. So, it is not just the red light that must be obeyed; all signs also apply similarly.
Use a comfortable vehicle for daily use, such as a Daihatsu car. This way, you can still comply with road markings well and not feel bored while in the car, especially during traffic jams.