2c4ae4f6-34d8-11ef-9454-0242ac120002

In the United States, roads without road markings, often referred to as "naked" highways, were more common prior to the mid-1900s. However, today, it is quite rare to find major highways without white and yellow pavement markings. These markings are crucial for delineating travel lanes and enhancing safety by providing lane position assistance and roadway alignment guidance.

The majority of public roadways in the U.S. now have markings that are designed to be visible in both day and night conditions. The research on the benefits of adding markings to previously unmarked roads indicates significant crash reductions. While there might still be some minor roads or rural areas where markings are less common, for the most part, road markings are a standard feature on American roads, especially on highways and in urban areas.

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) continues to research the optimization of pavement markings, including their durability, size, brightness, and the cost-effectiveness of their maintenance. This ongoing research aims to further improve the safety and effectiveness of road markings across the nation's transportation network.