What Does the Lateral Marking Mean?

[EleanorAnn]

Lateral marking means: In some windy or open areas, crosswinds may occur, alerting drivers that there will be strong side winds ahead. Lateral deceleration markings are a set of parallel white dashed lines, usually installed at highway toll booths, curves, tunnel entrances, and other locations to remind drivers to reduce speed. When drivers see lateral markings, they need to increase their attention and grip the steering wheel slightly tighter with both hands to prevent sudden crosswinds from causing the vehicle to deviate from its intended direction. Highways have lanes and median barriers, so there are no crosswinds. However, when entering ramps, vehicles may encounter winds blowing perpendicular to the body, which can easily lead to danger. Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of crosswinds, as high-speed vehicles affected by them are often prone to accidents. Crosswinds have a greater impact on box-shaped vehicles such as vans, large buses, and canvas-covered trucks because these vehicles have a higher center of gravity and larger lateral surface area.