Road-edge, crossing-approach and lane-change markings

Road edges and the shoulder

An edge marking identifies the boundary of the roadway. The left edge is commonly yellow and the right edge on one-way roadways white. A shoulder beyond the edge is not an ordinary overtaking lane. Look at the road layout before deciding what the line divides.

The reference permits a limited daytime shoulder move for a light vehicle being overtaken on a road with one lane each way, only when safe and people and vehicles are clearly visible at 150 metres. It is not compulsory, and it does not authorise overtaking along the shoulder.

Debris, pedestrians, stopped vehicles and a soft surface can make the shoulder unsafe. A driver behind you cannot cancel these conditions by flashing headlights.

Key idea: A shoulder is not spare passing space.

Zig-zag crossing approaches and kerb restrictions

Crossing-approach markings identify the area where pedestrians need a clear view of approaching traffic. Avoid voluntary stopping in the controlled approach and do not overtake there or pass a vehicle stopped at the crossing. Watch for people already crossing or waiting to cross.

A no-parking kerb line and a no-stopping line are different restrictions. The yellow no-parking line prohibits parking; a red no-stopping marking is more restrictive for voluntary stops. Broken markings can depend on the periods shown by the sign. Read the actual line and accompanying sign.

Stopping because a pedestrian is crossing is not the same as stopping for a phone call. Respect the restriction while making the stop required to yield or avoid a collision.

Key idea: Preserve crossing visibility and distinguish parking from stopping restrictions.

Continuity, lane-reduction and reversible-lane markings

Continuity markings warn of a break in the route or a lane that will turn off. A lane-reduction arrow warns that the number of lanes decreases. Read these early so you have time to find a safe gap before a channelising line or island prevents a change.

Check mirrors and blind spots, signal and change lanes only when you will not obstruct or endanger others. If two lanes end from opposite sides, other drivers may also be trying to enter the same remaining lane. Do not race them to the gap.

A reversible-lane marking means traffic direction may change at different times. Use the active overhead lane signals and posted controls rather than assuming the lane always runs in your direction.

Key idea: Identify a lane change early and check the active control before entering.

Warnings painted on the road

Some surface markings warn of a railway crossing, yield control, barrier line, speed hump or compulsory direction ahead. They provide time to prepare but do not replace the actual control. A warning of a no-crossing line means you must be back on the permitted side before the restriction begins.

Lane guide lines and informational arrows help you follow the route through complex intersections. Bicycle-crossing markings indicate where cyclists may cross; look for them rather than assuming every crossing user is on foot. Word markings provide additional information about the road ahead.

Read the marking briefly, then return observation to the road, signs and people. A worn marking does not make it safe to guess a path through a busy junction.

Key idea: Use advance warnings to prepare before reaching the controlling place.

Quick recap

• Do not overtake along the shoulder.
• Keep crossing approaches clear.
• No parking is not the same as no stopping.
• Read active signals for reversible lanes.