LTA uses wider lane markings to curb speeding at expressways

Wider lane markings and psychology is the latest tool used by Land Transport Authority (LTA) to restrict drivers from speeding. The idea is simple. By using wider lane markings it gives the impression of narrow roads - thus causing drivers to naturally slow down.

An LTA spokesman told The Straits Times, speeds have been cut by up to 10 percent since broader lane markings were drawn at two bends along the Pan Island Expressway (PIE). The standard lane markings measure 2,000mm long, 100mm wide and spaced 10 metres apart, while the new lane markings are more than twice as wide at 250mm, and placed 4 metres apart.

The new markings were placed in March last year by the LTA along the PIE towards Tuas near the Chantek flyover, and in the opposite direction near the Mount Pleasant flyover. These two locations were chosen on the fact that accidents which occurred there were mainly caused by speeding, and drivers losing control of their vehicles when negotiating the bends.

Given the success of the new markings, LTA will extend their use to the Bukit Timah Expressway slip road which connects to the Seletar Expressway by the end of next month. LTA is also considering the use of wider lane marking outside the expressways like close to pedestrian crossings which are located along straight roads.

Wider markings are also found along Marine Parade Road near Victoria Junior College with its efficiency to be studied in the coming months.