How Road Markings Work and How Roads Would Be Without Them

If the video player is not working, you can click on this alternative video link.

Can you imagine roads without markings or lines? How would you know what direction to head in, when to overpass oncoming cars and where to park safely?

The first white road markings were introduced back in 1911 in the U.S. and in 1918 in the United Kingdom and since then they can be seen on many roads. This is because they are so very useful.

Initially, these markings were all white but in the 1950s yellow lines also started to show up. Today, it seems strange to even think of a large road without these markings but the U.K. government has been removing some road lines from their streets for some time now in an effort to reduce accidents.

If this seems counterintuitive, consider research that shows that removing white lines in the center of rural roads causes drivers to be uncertain leading them to slow down and reduce their speed by 13%. The removal of road lines also results in more self-policing for cars making them more observant and attentive and making traffic more smooth flowing and safer. Who would have thought?

If we got your curiosity piqued and you want to know more about the advantages, disadvantages, and history of road lines and markings, then watch our video. You won't be disappointed.