Hatched areas feature diagonal stripes painted on the road carriageway, commonly found near junction turn lanes or central reserves.
Whether you are allowed to enter a hatched area depends entirely on whether its outer border is framed by a solid or broken white line.
What this sign means
Hatching is designed to separate opposing lanes of traffic, channel vehicles safely past hazards, or create right-turn shelter lanes.
The border line determines the strictness of the restriction.
- Broken outer line: Enter only if necessary and safe to do so.
- Solid outer line: Do not enter except in an emergency.
- Chevrons: Used on dual carriageways and motorway slip roads.
What to do when you see it
If bounded by a broken line, avoid driving in the hatched area unless needed to overtake safely or turn right without blocking traffic.
If bounded by a solid white line, keep out entirely unless directed by police or avoiding an unavoidable hazard.
How this sign is tested
Theory test questions focus on identifying the difference between solid-bordered and broken-bordered hatching rules.
In practical driving tests, driving over solid-bordered hatching will result in a fault.
Common mistakes
Many drivers assume all hatched areas are off-limits, failing to use broken-line right-turn protection bays.
Conversely, cutting across solid-bordered hatching when joining slip roads is a common highway safety violation.
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Practise road sign questionsFrequently asked questions
Can you drive on hatched lines with a broken border?
Yes, you can enter if necessary and safe, though you should avoid doing so if possible.
Can you drive on hatched lines with a solid border?
No, you must not enter a solid-bordered hatched area except in an emergency.
Why are hatched markings used before right turns?
They provide a safe refuge zone for turning vehicles to wait without obstructing high-speed through traffic.