Top News

Drivers must be wary when they see 2 vertical lines on kerb
Reach Daily Express | May 17, 2026 8:39 AM CST

There are so many road signs, markings and rules out there, it can be difficult to keep up. So to educate both learners and experienced drivers, instructor Annie Winterburn has shared some helpful advice.

In an informative TikTok video, the coach spoke about the two vertical lines that can appear on the kerb - and it's important for motorists to know what they mean to avoid a fine.

Annie said: "They are for people making deliveries. These are loading lines. So people who might want to stop their van or their lorry to deliver something or collect something."

The Highway Code makes clear that double kerb lines signify a complete ban on loading and unloading, while a single line denotes restrictions that apply only during specific times.

However, the rules don't just apply to delivery drivers. The markings are important general motorists to abide by too.

What the road markings mean for you

UK drivers should treat the vertical yellow "kerb blips" (short yellow lines painted on the edge of the kerb) as a serious parking/stop restriction because they don't just affect delivery vans - they can catch anyone who stops on that stretch of road.

A single yellow kerb blip means no loading/unloading at certain times (the times will be shown on a nearby sign).

Meanwhile, double yellow kerb blips: No loading/unloading at any time (usually no sign needed, though there may still be one).

On many roads, especially where there are also yellow lines, kerb blips are used to stop people from pulling up "just for a minute". If restrictions apply and you stop to do something that counts as loading/unloading (or you're simply stopped where stopping is effectively prohibited), a civil enforcement officer can issue a Penalty Charge Notice.

Examples that can bring you into "loading/unloading" territory (or be argued about) include:

  • putting shopping into the boot / taking it out
  • moving bulky items in/out of the car
  • handing over items to a property
  • courier-style drop-offs (even if it's personal)

So even if you don't think you're "unloading", an officer may assess what you're doing on the spot.

A significant number of motorists were unaware that these road markings apply solely to loading and unloading, not general parking.

One individual expressed their appreciation for the explanation, stating: "Wonderful. I thought that was for car drivers... thanks for clarifying that."

Another experienced motorist said: "Always helpful, I've been driving for 40 years and I'm still learning the theory aspect."

Meanwhile, a third person remarked: "I never knew about the load/unloading lorries markings. Thank you."


READ NEXT
Cancel OK