Britain Urged to Upgrade Road Markings Ahead of Self-Driving Vehicle Rollout

The UK is facing increasing pressure to improve its road markings as the country moves closer to integrating self-driving vehicles into its transport network.

Industry leaders have warned that the current state of road markings could significantly hinder the safe and effective deployment of autonomous technology.

The Government has launched a new call for evidence as part of the Automated Vehicles Act, which aims to ensure that the transition to automated mobility strengthens road safety, supports job creation, and delivers broad economic benefits.

Autonomous taxi services are already operational in California, with trials ongoing in New York. In contrast, the UK is only beginning to prepare for widespread trials, starting with connected vehicle pilots in London. These are expected to expand to other major cities in a bid to reduce urban traffic and congestion.

According to the Road Safety Markings Association (RSMA), there is an urgent need to upgrade road markings across the country. The organisation has highlighted that, while autonomous vehicles rely on a range of technologies including sensors and digital maps, clearly visible and consistent road markings are still vital for both AV performance and general road user safety.

Data from 2021 indicates that poor road markings were a contributing factor in 12% of all road traffic accidents in the UK. The RSMA has pointed to this statistic as evidence of the safety risks posed by deteriorating or inadequate road markings.

Improving road marking standards is seen not only as a way to support the emerging AV sector but also as a direct method of reducing injuries and fatalities on the road. Additionally, there is a broader financial consideration, with collisions imposing significant costs on healthcare, social care, and other public services.

The RSMA outlined its position at Road Expo Scotland 2025, where it was exhibiting alongside member organisations such as Markon, Central Traffic Management, and WJ Scotland. These companies play a key role in maintaining and enhancing road marking infrastructure across the UK.

The association also stressed that Scotland must not be overlooked in national transport strategies. With many of its A-roads experiencing high traffic volumes, ensuring road safety in these areas is essential. RSMA members are actively supporting efforts to maintain and improve Scotland’s road infrastructure to ensure it meets the demands of modern transport.

As the UK accelerates its journey towards connected and autonomous mobility, industry experts are calling for immediate action to bring road markings up to standard, viewing it as a fundamental requirement for success, rather than an optional upgrade.