The chevrons on vehicles are now an essential safety element for all commercial, maintenance, and emergency vehicles that operate today. The distinctive stripes serve a variety of purposes – from increasing vehicle visibility to complying with legal requirements.
Understanding Vehicle Chevrons – Vehicle chevrons consist of alternating stripes in contrasting colours, such as yellow and red or white and red. The distinctive pattern is designed to make a big impact in adverse weather or low light conditions. This pattern is a V shape that points up, making it an easily recognisable signal for other road users.
Safety Benefits – Vehicle chevrons are primarily used to increase safety by increasing visibility. Reflective materials are used to make modern chevron marks visible in low-light conditions, fog or at night. Visibility is especially important for vehicles that are stationary or in dangerous conditions, such as those on highways.
Some countries have laws that require certain vehicles to be marked with chevrons. This usually applies to:
- Emergency Response Vehicles
- Vehicles for highway maintenance
- Vehicles for breakdown recovery
- Vehicles exceeding certain weights are considered large goods vehicles
- Stopping vehicles on highways at high speeds
It is important to know the local requirements regarding chevron colours and coverage. For Chapter 8 Chevrons, visit https://www.vehiclechevrons.com
Material Quality and Standards – Modern vehicle chevrons must be made using reflective materials of high quality that meet industry standards. The materials used include:
- Microprismatic film
- Engineering-grade reflective vinyl
- Material grades for high-intensity prismatic sheets – Each grade has a different level of durability and reflectivity, making it suitable for varying applications.
Installation and Maintenance – Professional installation of chevrons is essential for their effectiveness. To maximise visibility, the markings should be placed on clean surfaces that have been prepared. Maintenance is essential to ensure that the reflective qualities remain strong, such as:
- Maintaining reflectivity requires regular cleaning
- Check for peeling or damage
- Replace faded or damaged sections
- Documentation for maintenance purposes
Cost-effective Safety Measures – While an initial investment of quality chevron marks may appear significant, they represent a cost effective safety measure. This increased visibility can reduce accident risk, which could lower insurance costs. It also protects both personnel and assets.
Future developments – As vehicle safety technologies evolve, chevron design continues to improve. The following are new developments:
- Reflective materials with smart technology that improve visibility under specific conditions
- Integrating vehicle lighting systems
- Improved daytime and nighttime visibility with advanced prismatic materials
- Marking materials that are environmentally sustainable
