What does the yellow grid line on the road mean?
2 Answers
The yellow grid line on the road is a type of traffic marking, mostly set up at temporary parking areas. The "National Standard of the People's Republic of China - GB5768 (Road Traffic Signs and Markings)" provides a clear explanation of the yellow grid line: it is used to inform drivers that temporary parking is prohibited at intersections (or other entrances and exits) where this marking is set, to prevent traffic congestion. It is painted at intersections or other entrances and exits where temporary parking is likely to occur, depending on the specific situation. Traffic markings: Traffic markings refer to signs on the road surface that use lines, arrows, text, vertical markings, raised pavement markers, and outline markers to convey guiding, restrictive, warning, and other traffic information to traffic participants. Their function is to regulate and guide traffic, and they can be used in conjunction with signs or alone. Other traffic markings: White dotted line: When painted on a road section, it is used to separate traffic flows in the same direction or as a safe driving distance recognition line; when painted at an intersection, it is used to guide vehicle movement. White solid line: When painted on a road section, it is used to separate motor vehicles and non-motor vehicles traveling in the same direction or to indicate the edge of the lane; when painted at an intersection, it can be used as a guide lane line or a stop line. Yellow dotted line: When painted on a road section, it is used to separate opposing traffic flows; when painted on the roadside or curb, it is used to prohibit long-term parking on the roadside.
I've been driving for over a decade, commuting in big cities, and yellow box junctions are all too familiar to me. They're painted at intersections, meaning that area is absolutely no-stopping zone for vehicles. Why? Because parking there directly blocks the junction, preventing cross traffic from passing when lights turn green, which would completely mess up the entire road system. I still remember one evening rush hour at a busy commercial district entrance where someone parked on the box junction, causing total gridlock - I almost missed my appointment. Later I heard that driver got caught on camera and was fined 200 yuan. So now I'm extra careful, slowing down to coast when approaching box junctions and never crossing the lines. Following this rule saves money and time while keeping urban traffic flowing. Bottom line: when you see yellow box junctions while driving, remember they're forbidden zones - just don't stop there.
