It is necessary for INDOT crews to re-stripe roadways each summer due to the effects of salting and plowing during the winter, as well as normal wear and tear.

INDOT uses fast-drying, water-based paint to indicate the center lines, edge lines and other roadway markings. Because road striping is a moving operation, drivers should look for vehicle-mounted message boards with signs indicating, “Caution: Wet Paint,” flashing lights and fresh-looking paint on the roadway. On some roads, striping crews will use escort vehicles ahead of and behind the striping truck.

Drivers should use extreme caution and patience when they encounter a striping crew. When possible, the striping crew will move off the roadway to allow vehicles behind the striping operation to pass.

Drivers can avoid getting fresh white or yellow paint on their vehicles by following a few simple rules.

• Give striping crews plenty of room to work and don’t follow too closely.
• Avoid driving over the newly painted markings.
• If drivers do get paint on their vehicles, wash the paint off as quickly as possible. Fresh paint often comes off easily with soap and water. After it dries, only a specialist can remove it.INDOT encourages motorists to slow down and pay special attention while traveling in work zones throughout Indiana.Drivers in Northwest Indiana can monitor road closures, road conditions and traffic alerts at any time via Facebook or Twitte or click here for INDOT’s TrafficWise traveler information service.