What is the meaning of the jagged white solid line?
2 Answers
It is a variable direction lane marking. It allows for left turns, right turns, or going straight, depending on the traffic signal or road signs. Two solid white lines indicate fixed direction lanes. Below is a detailed introduction to variable direction lane markings: 1. Introduction: Variable direction lane markings mean that the direction after entering the lane must be determined according to the signal light corresponding to the lane. Variable direction lanes are flexible, unlike ordinary lane markings where the direction is indicated by road markings. Variable direction lane markings are usually set up on road sections with complex traffic conditions. 2. Lane requirements: These are lanes where the direction can be changed according to traffic flow. This is mainly for sections where traffic is concentrated during peak hours but there are fewer lanes, or where there is a significant difference in traffic flow between morning and evening peak hours.
After so many years on the road, I've seen quite a few sawtooth-shaped white solid lines, which are a type of variable lane marking specifically used in busy urban traffic areas. Their purpose is to optimize road usage—for instance, during peak hours, a lane might suddenly change from straight-going to left or right turn. You must pay special attention to the overhead signal changes; once the signal adjusts, you need to follow accordingly. If ignored, like the time I missed the signal during evening rush hour, the marking changed but I kept driving straight, nearly sideswiping another car, which caused quite a hassle. So every time I see these sawtooth lines, I remind myself to look up and observe the signals. They're usually designed near major road intersections or bridges, with the sawtooth shape serving as a bold marker to alert drivers to stay vigilant. With rapid urban expansion, these markings are becoming more common—they help ease congestion but require drivers to adapt flexibly.
