How are roads divided into lanes?

Roads are divided into lanes primarily through the use of road markings. These markings provide visual guidance to drivers, indicating the boundaries of each lane, as well as facilitating safe and organized traffic flow. Lane markings, such as solid or broken lines, guide drivers on where to position their vehicles while also indicating when it is safe to change lanes. This system is essential for maintaining order on the roads and preventing collisions.

Other elements, such as traffic lights, sidewalks, and bumps in the road, serve different functions. Traffic lights control intersections and manage the flow of vehicles at specific points but do not delineate lanes. Sidewalks are primarily intended for pedestrian use and do not affect vehicle lane arrangements. Bumps or speed humps are designed to slow down traffic and typically do not play a role in defining lanes. Therefore, road markings are the vital element used to divide roads into lanes effectively.