Since road marking research is traditionally focused on the life-cycle performance of various marking materials in terms of durability and visibility, little is known about the effect of surface markings on pavement performance. Nevertheless, transportation agencies have reported the presence of pavement distresses, such as cracking and raveling, under or along pavement markings. This project investigated whether pavement markings cause pavement surface deterioration. Pavement sections with distresses potentially caused by pavement markings were identified. Visual surveys were performed to identify whether the surface distresses were located directly below or in the vicinity of the markings, relating the damaged area to the overall surface condition. Nondestructive testing was performed to evaluate the marking/pavement condition. Finite element modeling was conducted to evaluate the potential effect of temperature differentials on the interaction between markings and pavement surfaces. Results strongly indicate the issues with longitudinal joint compaction are the main culprit for pavement deterioration around longitudinal pavement markings. Recommendations regarding longitudinal joint construction and evaluation as well as pavement marking installation were proposed to avoid early pavement marking deterioration.