What is the purpose of yellow and white lines on roadways?

The purpose of yellow and white lines on roadways is essential for maintaining traffic order and safety. Yellow lines are primarily used to separate lanes of traffic moving in opposite directions, making it crucial for preventing head-on collisions. When you see a solid yellow line, it indicates that passing is not allowed. If the yellow line is broken, it signifies that passing is permissible, provided it is safe to do so.

White lines, on the other hand, are used to separate lanes of traffic moving in the same direction. When you see white lines, they can also designate certain areas, like bike lanes or areas where changing lanes is permitted. In contrast to yellow lines, white lines facilitate the organization of traffic into distinguishable lanes without allowing for opposite-direction movement.

Given that option C states that yellow lines separate roads with two-way traffic, this understanding of the purpose of yellow lines underscores their true function, which is to delineate opposite directions of traffic flow rather than simply separating roads. Traffic safety largely depends on the clear indication of these lines, preventing confusion and ensuring that drivers are aware of the driving rules associated with each type of line.