Rijstrookscheiding

Rijstrookscheiding refers to the physical or visual separation of traffic lanes on a roadway. Its primary purpose is to enhance road safety by guiding drivers and preventing unintended lane changes, which can lead to collisions. This separation can be achieved through various means, including the use of road markings, traffic islands, medians, guardrails, or even changes in pavement texture and color.

Road markings, such as solid or dashed white or yellow lines, are the most common form of rijstrookscheiding. These markings clearly delineate the boundaries of each lane, helping drivers maintain their position within their designated path. In areas where increased separation is required, such as on high-speed highways or in complex intersections, physical barriers like concrete medians, steel guardrails, or flexible bollards are employed. These barriers offer a more robust form of separation, capable of preventing vehicles from crossing into oncoming traffic or off the road.

The effectiveness of rijstrookscheiding is well-documented. By reducing lane intrusion and maintaining orderly traffic flow, it contributes significantly to minimizing accidents, especially those involving head-on collisions and side-swipes. The type of rijstrookscheiding used is typically determined by factors such as road type, traffic volume, speed limits, and the desired level of safety intervention. Proper implementation and maintenance of rijstrookscheiding are crucial for its success in improving overall road safety.