What does a broken white line indicate?

A broken white line indicates that lane changes are permitted. This line is used to separate lanes of traffic moving in the same direction. When you see a broken white line, it means that you can change lanes as long as it is safe to do so. Drivers should always check their mirrors and blind spots before making this maneuver to ensure that the lane change can be performed safely.

In contrast, a solid white line would indicate that lane changes are discouraged or prohibited, often to signal that the driver should remain in their lane. The presence of a broken line allows more flexibility for drivers, particularly in situations such as when merging onto highways or navigating multi-lane roads. Understanding this road marking helps ensure smoother traffic flow and enhances safety on the road.