Irrespective of your driving tenure, you may come across road signs or symbols that are puzzling. One such symbol seems to have left a significant number of drivers perplexed, despite years of driving experience. Many were even under the impression that this particular road marking indicated something entirely different.
Driver education expert Annie Winterburn, owner of Spot On Driving, shed some light on this common misunderstanding. By posting a video on the popular app, TikTok, she attempted to dispel confusion related to road markings. Navigating such symbols is a fundamental aspect of driving theory tests.
In her recent clip, she expressed her concern about the widespread confusion over a specific road marking – consisting of two lines on a kerb. She provides a succinct explanation of what these markings signify, saying, “Yellow lines on the road mean no waiting. Waiting equates to parking. So, when you spot two yellow lines painted on the road, it implies you can halt to let someone off, or to collect someone, but you are not permitted to wait or park there.”
In the scenario where these lines are coloured red, Annie elaborates, it signifies that there is no stopping allowed whatsoever. “This could apply to places like London or Birmingham”, she further adds.
The origin of the confusion can be attributed to the lines seen on kerbs. Contrary to common belief, these aren’t for motor car drivers. Annie, the driving professional, clarifies, “These are meant for individuals conducting deliveries. They are termed ‘loading lines.’ If someone needs to halt their van or truck to drop-off or pick-up goods, these lines come into play.”
The Highway Code specifies that two lines on the kerb prohibit “loading or unloading at any time”, whereas a single line implies “no loading or unloading at the times shown”.
It turned out that several people were not aware they shouldn’t concern themselves with these lines as drivers of cars. One viewer said: “Wonderful. I thought that was intended for car drivers… thanks for clarifying that.” Another added: “Always helpful, I’ve been driving for 40 years, and I’m still learning the theory aspect.”
A third viewer shared: “I was never aware of the load/unloading lorries markings. Thank you.”
