A new type of marking is appearing on European roads with the main objective of raising awareness among drivers traveling in urban areas.
It is in Spain that it begins. Drivers in Spain will face a new type of road marking, following authorities’ decision to implement a pilot test.
This measure consists of placing markings on the roads of urban centers in order to raise awareness and alert drivers to respect the reduced speed limits. The new type of marking will be applied on both sides of the taxiway, using a triangular and repeating pattern.
Large triangles play a dual role, as they are visible from afar and at the same time create the illusion that the road is narrowing. The fact that the width of the traffic lane seems to be shrinking encourages drivers to take their foot off the accelerator or even slow down.
The new signage is nicknamed “the teeth of the dragon” by the Spanish authorities, because its presence on the asphalt evokes a row of particularly… sharp teeth.
This new type of marking will be pilot tested on some Spanish roads, and its effectiveness will determine whether it will be extended within or even perhaps beyond the Spanish borders. In addition to the “teeth of the dragon”, the Spaniards are also testing another type of marking, described as zigzag lines, which signal to drivers the presence of a pedestrian crossing on the next section of road.
