These little art installations are actually road markings for zebra crossings. They are the official "hey, watch out for pedestrians" signal.
The zig zags replace the usual solid white lines you see at a normal crossing. Think of them as a highlighter for the road, screaming "PAY ATTENTION!"
They are usually painted on both sides of the crossing. Yellow for the UK standard, but sometimes white in less busy areas.
The rules are shockingly simple
Here’s the kicker: you cannot park on them. Ever. Not even for a second. Not even if you’re "just dropping someone off." The law says no.
You also can’t overtake the leading vehicle on the approach to the zigzags. That's a big no-no, my friend. Keep your car behind the car in front.
And no stopping on the zigzag lines themselves. Unless you’re literally broken down. Even then, try to roll past them. They are a clear "keep moving" zone.
Why are they so strict? Because visibility is everything. The zigzags create a clear space so drivers can see people about to cross. And so pedestrians can see giant metal death machines coming their way.
London Road Markings Zig Zag at Kate Esther blog
Imagine parking your car right next to a zebra crossing. That’s like hiding a toddler behind a sofa. Dangerous and slightly silly.
