18.02.2026 19:14
The bright orange stripes that have started to be used on highways in the United States, particularly in California, have significantly increased driver awareness during road work, resulting in reduced speeds and higher safety in night visibility. The implemented practice aims to reduce accidents with these colorful warnings added to traditional road markings.
The bright orange lines that drivers traveling in the western United States have started to notice in recent years are becoming increasingly visible, especially along California routes. Although they may initially be perceived as an optical illusion, these colorful stripes were implemented as part of a planned initiative to enhance road safety.
PROVIDING DRIVERS WITH A STRONG VISUAL WARNINGYOR
The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), which is leading the project, aims to provide drivers with a strong visual warning by adding temporary orange markings next to or on top of the classic white road lines. These colors are intended to be noticed more quickly, especially during road work, temporary speed limits, and lane changes.
TWO DIFFERENT METHODS ARE BEING TESTED
According to a report in The Sun, teams are using two separate techniques instead of completely erasing the old lines. In one method, the orange color is added right next to the white stripes, while in the other, it is applied vertically in front of the stripes to create high contrast. Both approaches are designed to help drivers perceive the guidance more clearly.
THE IMPACT ON SAFETY HAS BEEN REVEALED BY NUMBERS
According to survey results reported by SlashGear, which specializes in automotive and technology publishing, a large majority of drivers participating in the pilot program stated that they noticed these lines in work areas more quickly. A significant portion of the participants reported that they reduced their speeds, while it was emphasized that the orange markings were much more clearly visible at night compared to traditional cones and signs.
GOAL: MORE AWARENESS, LESS ACCIDENTS
According to experts, the bright orange color's difference from conventional road signs triggers the "attention" reflex in the driver's brain more quickly. The primary goal of the initiative is to reduce confusion during road work, slow down driving behaviors, and prevent accidents. Authorities indicate that if positive feedback continues, the orange stripes could be used in much wider areas throughout California.