What does the sawtooth line on the highway mean?
3 Answers
The sawtooth line on the highway refers to longitudinal deceleration markings, which serve as a deceleration warning and are commonly used on curves. Below are the relevant details: 1. Definition of longitudinal deceleration markings: These markings consist of a series of diamond-shaped dashed lines parallel to the lane dividing line. They are typically placed at bridge approaches and curves. 2. Function of longitudinal deceleration markings: Their primary purpose is to create a visual narrowing of the lane, inducing a sense of pressure on drivers, prompting them to automatically reduce speed at locations requiring deceleration, such as curves or slopes. When vehicles pass through sections with longitudinal deceleration markings, drivers will subjectively perceive the lane as gradually narrowing, leading them to take proactive deceleration measures and proceed slowly. This effectively prevents drivers from slamming on the brakes just before the stop line.
Back when I just got my driver's license, I was curious about what those sawtooth lines on the highway meant. After driving on highways for several years, I noticed that these zigzag markings usually appear near entrance or exit ramps, alerting drivers to slow down ahead or indicating lane changes, such as upcoming curves or toll booths. They're especially noticeable during rain or at night. I remember one time driving in heavy rain with terrible visibility—the reflective design of those sawtooth lines helped me brake early and avoid a potential sideswipe. If you ignore them, it's easy to speed and get into trouble; a ticket would be the least of your worries compared to accident risks. These lines work best when paired with speed bumps, as they're designed to enhance warning visibility and reduce accidents. It's good practice to ease off the gas when you see them, check your mirrors for trailing vehicles, and ensure safety. Nowadays, many navigation apps also alert drivers to these markings, but never rely solely on tech—trusting your own eyes is always more reliable.
Driving on the highway daily for commuting, I've seen plenty of zigzag lines—they're signals warning us to slow down in advance. Commonly found near highway exits or curves, they indicate potential lane narrowing or hazards. Personally, whenever I spot them, I instinctively check my speedometer and maintain around 60 km/h, especially in complex traffic zones. These markings tie into safety design principles: their jagged pattern stands out more than regular solid lines, making them harder to miss, and they prove particularly useful in low visibility. I’d advise new drivers to practice on such stretches—don’t wait for navigation alerts to react. Developing this vigilance can significantly reduce accident risks. Small details on highways matter greatly for safety.
