What does a curb painted with yellow lines indicate?

A curb painted with yellow lines indicates that you may stop only long enough to load or unload passengers or goods. This designation is important for both traffic flow and the safety of pedestrians, as it ensures that areas are available for quick stops without obstructing the flow of traffic. The presence of yellow indicates limited parking privileges, so drivers should be aware that they are not permitted to leave their vehicles unattended, and they should move their vehicles promptly after loading or unloading is complete.

This contrasts with other options; for example, a curb painted with a different color, such as red, often indicates a complete prohibition of parking at any time. A curb marked for limited time parking may involve other colors, but yellow specifically relates to loading zones. Finally, the designation of no-parking zones after dark would typically be indicated with signage or different markings, not just a yellow line. Understanding these designations is critical for compliance with local parking regulations and for avoiding fines or vehicle towing.