If you’re a business owner with a commercial parking lot, then you’re well aware of the painted lines and pavement striping spread almost everywhere. Even regular motorists must know what these lines signify. Parking spaces are usually partially or completely marked out with lines to help drivers better navigate and position their vehicles. The markings allow the maximum number of vehicles to fit in a parking area as well as making sure there is a safe space around each one.
The question is, what exactly do those lines and markings in your asphalt paving mean? Here’s what you need to know about the different colors used for parking lot striping and marking.
Common Types of Parking Lot Pavement Markings
Drivers rely heavily on road and pavement markings for safe driving and parking. Have you ever thought about the significance of the colors of those markings? Generally, the paint colors used for lines create defined spaces to control traffic and guide drivers to safety. However, some states do have specific rules for striping colors.
Here are the standard colors used in pavement markings and their respective meanings:
- White – White markings are for designated parking spaces unless restricted by signs.
- Red – Red marking typically signifies no parking, no standing, and stopping, or designated fire lanes. In some cases, it may also be used for bus stops.
- Blue – Blue markings are reserved areas for disabled or handicapped individuals. They must possess a disabled person placard or license plate for easy identification.
- Yellow – Yellow markings are for loading or unloading vehicles, but the driver must stay inside the truck.
These are common standards among a majority of establishments that have commercial parking lots. They can help you plan and create an efficient system in your own parking space. However, these are not universal standards as each color may vary for each state. Before calling paving contractors to place curb striping in your parking space, make sure to review local state laws and regulations.
Parking Risks for Motorists
Some states require drivers to treat unpainted curbs the same as white curbs, though this is not always the case. As with colored markings, it is important that all motorists check the local parking restrictions that apply to where they are driving. It’s possible that two cities within the same state may use entirely different sets of rules when it comes to parking regulations.
As a rule of thumb, motorists need to watch out for road signs posted nearby a parking spot to know if it’s permitted to park or not, especially if they’re in an unfamiliar area. Road signs usually state parking rules for that particular curb. Remember—a lack of painted curbs indicating that parking is not restricted does not mean that parking is automatically permitted.
Conclusion
Knowing the significance of these parking lot signs is crucial for your business. You need to be able to apply the correct curb markings and colors to make sure your customers can park safely in your parking space.
Are you looking for paving contractors in New Jersey for your parking lot? Dan the Paver is the go-to option for parking lot and driveway paving. We specialize in residential and commercial paving services for clients in the New Jersey area. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help!