Merlion BTT· 3 min read
Road Markings and Lane Discipline
Interpretation of road markings: Center lines, kerbside markings, and zig-zag lines.
3. Road Markings and Lane Discipline
Road markings form the geometry of the law on the tarmac. They delineate lanes, enforce separation, and dictate parking rules. The BTT tests the driver’s ability to interpret these lines instantaneously.
3.1 Center Lines and Lane Dividers
The color and continuity of lines dictate the permissibility of crossing them.
3.1.1 White Markings
Broken White Line
- Definition: A dashed white line running down the center of the road or separating lanes.
- Rule: Motorists may cross this line to overtake or change lanes, provided the road is clear and it is safe to do so.
- BTT Question: “Are you allowed to overtake on a road with a broken white center line?” Answer: “Yes, if the road ahead is clear.”.15
Continuous (Single) White Line
- Definition: A solid white line.
- Rule: This indicates a hazard or a specific road division. Motorists should keep left. Crossing is permitted only if the road ahead is completely clear, unlike the double line which is absolute. However, parking is strictly prohibited on both sides of a road marked with a single continuous white line.
- Assessment Scenario: Question: “Can you park on a road marked with a single continuous white line?” Answer: “No, parking is prohibited on both sides.”.15
Double Continuous White Lines
- Definition: Two parallel solid white lines.
- Rule: This is a “virtual wall.” Crossing these lines is strictly prohibited. No U-turns, no right turns, and no overtaking are allowed across these lines.
- Penalty: Crossing double white lines attracts 4 demerit points and a fine.
- Assessment Scenario: Question: “When are you permitted to cross double white lines?” Answer: “Never, unless directed by traffic police or to avoid a stationary obstruction.”.15
3.2 Kerbside Markings: The Hierarchy of Parking Restrictions
Yellow markings along the side of the road dictate stopping and parking privileges. The BTT requires precise memorization of the operational hours.
| Marking Type | Restriction Details | Permitted Exceptions | Demerit Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Continuous Yellow Line | No parking between 7:00 am and 7:00 pm (Mon-Sat). | Parking allowed on Sundays & Public Holidays. Pick-up/drop-off allowed. | 3 Points (if parked illegally) |
| Double Continuous Yellow Lines | No parking at all times. | Immediate pick-up/drop-off allowed. | 3 Points |
| Single Yellow Zig-Zag Line | No parking at all times. | Immediate pick-up/drop-off allowed. | 3 Points |
| Double Yellow Zig-Zag Lines | No Stopping at all times. | None. Even immediate boarding is illegal. | 3 Points + Fine |
Analytical Insight: The introduction of the Zig-Zag pattern (both yellow and white) represents an escalation in regulatory strictness. While a double yellow line allows a taxi to momentarily drop a passenger, a double yellow zig-zag criminalizes the mere act of the wheels stopping. These are strategically placed near junctions, bus stops, and fire hydrants where any stoppage creates immediate congestion or danger.15
3.3 The White Zig-Zag: Pedestrian Safety Zones
White zig-zag lines are painted on the approach lanes to a Zebra Crossing.
- Function: They warn of the impending crossing and create a “controlled zone” where visibility is paramount.
- Prohibitions: Within the zig-zag area, motorists must not:
- Overtake.
- Wait or Park.
- Pedestrians are also prohibited from crossing the road on the zig-zag lines (they must use the zebra crossing itself).
- Assessment Scenario: Question: “What does a single white zig-zag line along the center of the road indicate?” Answer: “Approaches to a zebra crossing; no overtaking or parking allowed.”.15
- Penalty: Parking within these lines attracts 3 demerit points.17