What Are Chevron Markings? Understanding to Avoid Traffic Fines

“Hey buddy, be careful on Hoang Hoa Tham Street! It’s full of chevron markings, be careful not to get a ticket!” My friend, a Hino truck driver, warned me as I was about to drive my newly purchased Dongfeng truck to deliver goods in Ba Dinh District. Chevron markings? I suddenly remembered the lessons I had learned when I took my truck driving test at the driving training center in Hanoi. Right, chevron markings, it sounds so familiar, but why did I forget what it was?

What Are Chevron Markings?

Definition of Chevron Markings

Chevron markings, also known as hatch markings or diagonal lines, are a type of road marking often placed at intersections, junctions, or road crossings. They are usually white and painted diagonally to form a fishbone-like pattern, making them easily recognizable to drivers.

Chevron Markings on the Road

Purpose of Chevron Markings

The main purpose of chevron markings is to warn, separate lanes, and guide traffic. Specifically:

• Warning: Chevron markings often appear in road sections with high risks of traffic accidents, warning drivers to increase vigilance and slow down.
• Lane separation: Chevron markings effectively separate lanes, especially at intersections, narrow roads, helping vehicles stay in the correct lane and avoid collisions.
• Traffic guidance: Chevron markings guide drivers in the right direction, preventing them from entering the wrong way or prohibited roads.

Types of Chevron Markings

• Solid chevron markings: Passing over solid chevron markings to change lanes or turn is prohibited.
• Broken chevron markings: Passing over broken chevron markings to change lanes or turn is permitted when it is safe to do so.

Precautions When Driving Over Chevron Markings

• Reduce speed and carefully observe the surrounding traffic.
• Never overtake other vehicles when driving over solid chevron markings.
• Ensure safety when passing over broken chevron markings.
• Obey traffic controllers and traffic signs in areas with chevron markings.

Traffic Sign Indicating Chevron Markings

Frequently Asked Questions about Chevron Markings

Question: Is there a penalty for crossing chevron markings?

Answer: Crossing chevron markings, especially solid ones, is a traffic violation and can result in fines from 200,000 to 400,000 VND for trucks under 3.5 tons and driver’s license suspension from 1 to 3 months. The specific penalty depends on the severity of the violation and the type of vehicle.

Question: Where are chevron markings usually found?

Answer: Chevron markings are commonly found in locations such as:

• Intersections and junctions.
• Curved or blind spots.
• Areas in front of schools and hospitals.
• Densely populated areas.

Conclusion

Understanding chevron markings is crucial for any driver, especially truck drivers who frequently travel on long and complex routes. Let’s raise awareness of traffic participation, comply with traffic laws, and contribute to building a safe and civilized traffic environment.