?? Road Marking Types & Their Role in Safety and Traffic Flow ??
Effective road markings are essential for guiding traffic, improving safety, and reducing crash risks. Whether at intersections, roundabouts, or along road corridors, selecting the right type of marking is crucial. Here's a breakdown of some key road marking types and their uses:
?? Painted Medians Painted medians (or flush medians) are a cost-effective solution for improving lateral separation between opposing traffic. They are ideal where space or budget constraints make raised medians unfeasible. These markings, often paired with raised retroreflective pavement markers (RRPMs), can be found in both urban and rural settings.
?? Painted Traffic Islands These space-efficient markings help separate and direct traffic, often used as splitter islands at intersections. They are particularly useful for defining turn lanes and can be incorporated in constrained locations. Like painted medians, they should be marked with RRPMs for visibility.
?? Wide Centerline Treatments (WCLT) WCLT widens the centerline to enhance lateral separation between opposing traffic lanes, reducing head-on crash risks. This treatment is particularly effective when combined with raised profile linemarking and audio-tactile line markings (ATLM) to alert drivers when they deviate from their lane.
?? Pavement Markings at Intersections Markings at intersections help warn, regulate, and guide traffic. Proper intersection design must balance the use of pavement markings and signs to ensure safe and efficient operation. Key recommendations include using skid-resistant markings to benefit all road users, particularly motorcyclists.
?? Pavement Markings at Roundabouts In roundabout design, clear, visible pavement markings are essential to guide traffic flow and enhance safety. Markings should be durable, provide good lane delineation, and ensure proper skid resistance to support motorcycle stability.
?? Audio-Tactile Line Markings (ATLM) ATLM provide a crucial warning to drivers who might be drifting off the roadway due to fatigue or inattention. Studies show a significant reduction in roadway departure crashes with their use, particularly on edge lines and centerlines. They are most effective when placed close to the edge of the road.
?? Raised Profile Linemarking Used in conjunction with WCLT, raised profile linemarkings provide both a physical and auditory alert to drivers who unintentionally leave their lane. They are particularly useful in high-risk areas.
?? Thermoplastic Markings For areas where snow removal can damage regular road markings, thermoplastic markings offer durability and long-lasting visibility, ensuring markings remain clear throughout the year.
Choosing the right road markings is a strategic decision based on factors like road function, traffic volume, and safety objectives. Thoughtfully designed markings can significantly enhance road safety, driver awareness, and traffic flow.