What is the purpose of the 'central reservation' on a motorway?

The central reservation on a motorway serves the crucial purpose of separating opposing traffic flows. This design feature is instrumental in enhancing safety by preventing head-on collisions between vehicles traveling in opposite directions. By creating physical space between lanes of traffic, the central reservation helps to mitigate the risk of accidents, particularly in high-speed environments like motorways.

It acts as a buffer zone that not only aids in reducing the likelihood of tragic incidents but also allows for safer management of road conditions in the event of emergencies or breakdowns. Thus, the central reservation is a critical element of motorway design aimed at improving overall road safety for all drivers and passengers.