Are Faded Road Markings Illegal?

Over time, even the brightest road markings can fade and reduce in clarity. Travelling around towns and cities, no doubt you’ve noticed many faded road linings – perhaps even at the sites, roads and car parks you’re responsible for – which could become a culprit of road accidents and incidents. So how dangerous are faded road markings? And are they illegal? 

The Problem with Faded Road Markings

When driving a car, whether that’s on a major road or a small car park, motorists rely on the guidance of markings for direction, traffic flow and to be alerted of hazards or upcoming turns. Pedestrians also look to road markings to understand the layout or flow of traffic on a road, and for instruction when crossing a road. But why do road markings fade? With both traffic and weathering, even high-quality road markings are bound to fade away.

Therefore if road markings are completely missing or faded to the point of being unclear, especially from a distance, this can seriously impact the safety of motorists and pedestrians. Even a single moment of confusion on the roads could cause injury or even fatality, and so markings should be in the best possible condition at all times. 

Are Faded Road Markings Illegal?

While faded road markings are not illegal in a definite black-and-white sense, the legislation of the Road Traffic Act 1988 outlines that roads must be safe for users. Therefore if an accident were to occur due to the lack of road markings, or the inadequate quality of them, then the responsibility may well lie with those in charge of the road marking maintenance. An incident caused as a direct result of road marking quality could therefore be a violation of the law. 

Who Is Responsible for Road Markings?

This depends entirely on the location. Most public roads are managed by the local highways authority, and as such, they will be responsible for these public roads. 

However, private roads and car parks will be the responsibility of the owner or manager. If you’re unsure about whether you’re responsible for road markings on or around the vicinity of your property, business or site, then it’s best to get in touch with your local highways authority who should be able to advise further. 

The Solution

So, what is the best way to keep your road markings in safe condition? 

• Examination: Inspection and maintenance of your site’s markings should be carried out on a regular basis to check on their condition. If you notice that markings are faded, difficult to read or missing entirely, then this will need to be addressed. 
• Correction: The next key stage is to seek out professional road marking services to replace faded markings or to lay down vital ones which are missing. This way, you ensure the safety of motorists and pedestrians using your site. This reduces the likelihood of accidents occuring and therefore decreases the chance of injury, loss of life and violation of the Road Traffic Act 1988.

Make sure you choose a professional company to correct your faded road markings. Here at Landmark Road Lining, we provide UK-wide road markings, car park markings and road marking removals. With over 30 years of industry experience, our teams can provide a prompt, reliable service anywhere in the country. Simply get in touch to discuss your project.