{"id":8706703,"date":"2023-01-05T06:00:43","date_gmt":"2023-01-05T14:00:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.eastbaytimes.com\/?p=8706703&preview=true&preview_id=8706703"},"modified":"2023-01-05T07:48:53","modified_gmt":"2023-01-05T15:48:53","slug":"drivers-want-more-botts-dots-to-see-lanes-on-rainy-roads-but-better-alternative-on-the-way-roadshow","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.eastbaytimes.com\/2023\/01\/05\/drivers-want-more-botts-dots-to-see-lanes-on-rainy-roads-but-better-alternative-on-the-way-roadshow\/","title":{"rendered":"Drivers want more Botts dots to see lanes on rainy roads, but better alternative on the way: Roadshow"},"content":{"rendered":"

Q: I commute in early-morning hours. With the current rains, there HAS to be a way to ensure that we can see the lanes. Botts dots everywhere would be great. Or something reflective. Being unable to see where you are is incredibly stressful.<\/p>\n

George Mathews, Antioch<\/strong><\/p>\n

A: Caltrans is replacing Botts dots with better striping<\/a>. Visibility is a feature of the planned striping that is being tested statewide.<\/p>\n

Q: I drove from Oakland to Milpitas in a huge downpour late Saturday. On Interstates 580 and 880, Botts dots were missing for up to 200 feet at a time. The road just seemed to disappear.<\/p>\n

I heard that Botts dots are to be eliminated. Should I plan to get a bumper car in the near future?<\/p>\n

Keith Scott, Milpitas<\/strong><\/p>\n

A: All new lanelines, edgelines, and centerlines will be 6 inches wide instead of 4 inches. When lines are refreshed during maintenance, they will be replaced with wider lines. An exception will be made for lines with reflectors on either side because wider lines will not fit without moving the reflectors.<\/p>\n

This should increase lane line visibility. Wider shoulder lines have been shown to help reduce the rate of vehicles running off the road.<\/p>\n

Q: Can you please provide information on dealing with pothole damage to cars? While traveling from San Ramon to Livermore on 580 east on Saturday night, my car hit a pothole. It was very dark and heavy rains had opened up a few potholes between First Street and Vasco Road.<\/p>\n