What does the white grid line area mean?
3 Answers
White grid lines are called channelizing lines, mainly set up at wide, irregular, or complex intersections, on-ramps of overpasses, or other special locations to guide and divert traffic. 1. Yellow grid lines: Yellow grid lines are set up in front of important national institutions, military bases, large enterprises, and public transportation hubs. Vehicles can pass through or make U-turns in yellow grid line areas, but parking—whether long-term or temporary—is strictly prohibited to ensure smooth traffic flow for these institutions. 2. Precautions: White grid lines impose stricter requirements on vehicles compared to yellow grid lines—no parking, no crossing or driving over the lines. In other words, white grid lines are off-limits to motor vehicles and must not be entered.
I've been driving for a long time and have a good understanding of these white grid line areas. Simply put, they are white grid lines painted on the road surface, usually in square or rectangular patterns, indicating that parking is absolutely prohibited here under any circumstances. They mainly appear at intersections, under overpasses, or near the entrances of hospitals and schools because these areas have heavy traffic, and parking there can block the entire flow, which is particularly dangerous. I remember once seeing a car parked at a traffic light in the city center, and as a result, all the cars behind got stuck, and someone almost rear-ended them. When driving, you need to pay special attention to these areas, especially on congested urban roads; once you park illegally, the police will catch you right away, and a ticket will follow. Also, unlike ordinary white lines, grid lines emphasize the no-parking requirement more prominently, aiming to ensure smooth and safe passage at intersections. In short, when you see these lines, decisively go around or keep moving—don’t hesitate.
As a new driver who just got my license, the white hatched area left a deep impression on me. The instructor repeatedly emphasized that these white grids painted before intersections or important passages represent a complete prohibition of parking. This means whether it's a temporary stop or waiting at a red light, you cannot brake and stop there. When I first started driving, I always thought these lines were unnecessary, but I soon understood their importance—once I almost stopped at a crosswalk, fortunately, I didn't, avoiding blocking pedestrians from crossing. In terms of rules, it functions similarly to yellow no-parking markings, but the white hatching is more targeted at dynamic obstructions. Identifying it while driving isn't difficult: it's commonly seen on urban main roads and curves, visually appearing as white lines intersecting to form a hatched area. Following this rule not only helps avoid fines but also prevents traffic accidents, making driving safer once it becomes a habit.
