ROAD AND WORKSHOP by HANDYMAN
Page 52
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'No Overtaking '—Offset Double White Lines
A T long last many or our main road black-spots are receiving very special attention, , via twin white lines restricting traffic to a single flow on one side, and permitting safe overtaking on the other.
Good signposts and road marking, leaves no one in doubt regarding their position for the next half mile or so, and if all follow the drill, no harm can come to anyone. The rather sudden introduction of this road marking, followed by the almost complete removal of accidents within the areas marked, does indicate that the less careful motorist can be disciplined, provided that the measures taken are clearly understood and that some form of penalty is in being for those who may be tempted to break the rule.
It is enough to say that few motorists would wish to draw attention to themselves by anything so foolish as a move out to cross the twin lines. It is therefore fair comment that this system of road marking can be considered a selfenergizing exercise, one which will exert its influence on all who use that section of road—and the stigma of Black Spot can now be removed from many miles of pleasant countryside.
A discussion group of road users recently examined the value or otherwise of the new markings, and the following conclusions were noted: 1. The new marking automatically demands and obtains a standard of driving that can obviate accidents.
2. The entry to the restricted area is clearly marked, with good warning.
3. It was noted that certain, sections
of road have the single Line of traffic uphill. This can cause congestion where a low-geared heavy vehicle heads the line and, as a result of this, there were reported instances of fast and inconsiderate driving on again entering the overtaking section and several nearaccidents where other traffic was already halted for a right turn. It was considered that this risk could be avoided, if the uphill section was arranged for overtaking. The downhill single-lino section would then enable the slower vehicles to maintain their best speed and thus minimize frustration of faster traffic and the chance of risks being taken.
4. Where the overtaking section crossed the brow of a hill, with a righthand junction ahead and the chance of a stationary vehicle in the outer lane, it was considered that this should be indicated well in advance by a " Slow " or "Caution" sign marked clearly on the road in the outer lane.