What are the markings on paved roadways that provide guidance to drivers known as?

The correct choice refers specifically to "pavement markings," which are the various symbols, lines, and patterns painted on the surface of roadways. These markings serve critical roles in road safety and traffic management by providing guidance and information to drivers. They indicate lanes, traffic direction, pedestrian crossings, and other important aspects that help regulate vehicle and pedestrian movement.

Pavement markings are essential because they create a visual guide for drivers to follow, which is crucial for maintaining order and safety on the roads. They assist in reducing the likelihood of accidents by clearly defining where vehicles should be positioned and how they should navigate various road situations.

In contrast, other terms such as center line markings and traffic control markings refer to more specific types of pavement markings or related traffic devices. Center line markings specifically denote the separation of opposing traffic flows, whereas traffic control markings may encompass a wider category that includes stop lines and yield lines. Guidance lines, while related to directing vehicle movement, is not a commonly used term in traffic management literature and does not comprehensively cover the various types of markings on roadways. Thus, pavement markings is the most accurate term to describe the full range of visual guidance provided to drivers on paved roadways.