Faded Road Markings Putting UK Drivers at Risk, Says RAC Survey

Faded road markings are making UK roads more dangerous, with 92% of motorists reporting that safety has declined as essential lines and symbols disappear, according to new research from the RAC.

The survey of 1,693 drivers found that 21% believe most markings in their local area have nearly vanished, while 71%say at least some lines or symbols are no longer clearly visible. Nearly three-quarters (72%) of respondents think the problem has worsened over the past five years.

The markings most commonly reported as faded include centre lines separating traffic (50%), directional arrows at junctions and roundabouts (48%), and give-way lines (44%). Drivers also noted deterioration of yellow box markings (43%), stop lines (41%), road-painted speed limits (36%), zebra crossings (24%), bus or cycle lanes (22%), hatching (29%), and cycle boxes/advanced stop lines (17%).

The safety implications are significant. 63% of drivers reported having to guess lane positions, while 38% ended up in the wrong lane. Nearly one in five (19%) experienced confrontations or honking from other road users, or had to make sudden lane changes. More seriously, 16% said they had a near miss due to faded markings, and 13% overshot a junction after missing stop or give-way lines.

An overwhelming 84% of drivers believe road safety would improve if markings were repainted, and 91% want local authorities to ensure lines and symbols remain visible.

According to the RAC Report on Motoring, faded markings and poor drainage are now cited as the second-biggest safety hazards by drivers, behind potholes (80%).

Simon Williams, head of policy at the RAC, said:

“Drivers are widely reporting that road markings have been left to fade into obscurity, making roads less safe. The issue has clearly worsened over the last five years, with some critical markings—like lane dividers and stop lines—disappearing entirely. While the Government has recently published the first national road safety strategy in over a decade, this is one area that cannot be overlooked.”

The RAC is urging the Government to work with local councils to tackle the problem. Williams added:

“Almost one in five drivers have experienced a near miss because of faded road markings, and more than one in ten have overshot a junction. Letting these essential markings wear away makes no sense. The cost of maintaining them is small compared to the potential cost in crashes and injuries.”