Hatched markings

What it means

The striped area is not meant for driving in. It separates lanes or protects traffic waiting to turn right.

If the area is bordered by a broken white line, you should not enter it unless it is necessary and you can see it is safe.

If it is marked with chevrons and bordered by a solid white line, you must not enter it except in an emergency.

Where you'll see it

In the centre of the road at junctions with right-turn lanes, before traffic islands, and where slip roads join or leave.

Rules to know

• Diagonal stripes or chevrons separate traffic lanes or protect traffic turning right. If the area is bordered by a broken white line, you should not enter it unless it is necessary and safe.

  The Highway Code, Rule 130

• If the area is marked with chevrons and bordered by solid white lines, you must not enter it except in an emergency.

  The Highway Code, Rule 130

• Hatched markings bounded by broken lines may be used in the centre of the road to separate opposing flows of traffic, and are often provided at junctions to protect traffic turning right.

  Know Your Traffic Signs, p. 74

Common mistakes

• Mistake: Using the hatched area as an overtaking lane.

  Instead: Stay out of it unless it is necessary and safe, and never enter a solid-bordered area except in an emergency.

Test yourself

Recalling the answer helps it stick. Pick an answer to see how you did.

Question 1 of 1

What does this marking mean?

• AStop behind the line every time
• BGive way to traffic on the main road
• CNo crossing or straddling the solid line on your side
• DDo not drive in the striped area unless it is necessary and safe

Ready for more? Take the Road Markings Quiz