Pedestrian Crossings
Right of Way
Pedestrians have specific rights of way, and drivers must exercise great care at all crossings.
General Rules
You must not:
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Park on a crossing or within the zigzag-marked area — this blocks visibility for both pedestrians and drivers.
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Overtake a moving or stopped vehicle near a crossing.
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Block the crossing when queuing in traffic.
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Rush or intimidate pedestrians by edging forward or revving your engine.
You should:
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Allow pedestrians plenty of time to cross, especially older or disabled people.
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Be cautious where visibility is restricted by stationary traffic — pedestrians may step out unexpectedly.
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Drive slowly and be ready to stop in wet or icy conditions.
At all signal-controlled crossings, always:
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Give way to anyone still crossing, even if your light turns green.
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Proceed carefully if the lights are not working.
Zebra Crossings
Zebra crossings are marked by flashing yellow beacons and black-and-white stripes, with zigzag lines on both approaches.
When pedestrians are waiting:
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Check your mirrors and stop if it’s safe to do so.
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Stay alert — pedestrians may step onto the crossing suddenly.
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You must give way to anyone already on or stepping onto the crossing.
Never wave pedestrians across — another driver may not see them.
Where a zebra crossing is divided by a central island, treat each side as a separate crossing.
Parallel Crossings
These combine a zebra crossing for pedestrians with a cycle lane for cyclists.
Drivers must give way to both pedestrians and cyclists crossing the road.
Pelican Crossings
Pelican crossings are controlled by traffic lights activated by pedestrians.
They feature a flashing amber light, meaning:
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Give way to pedestrians on the crossing
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Proceed only when the crossing is clear
Crossings may be:
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Straight – both sides count as one crossing
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Staggered – each side is treated as a separate crossing
Puffin Crossings
‘Intelligent’ crossings that use sensors to:
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Detect waiting pedestrians
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Cancel the signal if they walk away
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Extend crossing time if someone needs longer
These use the same light sequence as standard traffic lights.
Toucan Crossings
Toucan crossings are shared by pedestrians and cyclists, both allowed to cross simultaneously.
They also use the standard traffic light sequence.
Equestrian Crossings
Designed for horse riders, often positioned alongside pedestrian or cycle crossings.
They feature:
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Wider crossing areas
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Barriers
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Controls positioned at two heights for riders and pedestrians
School Crossing Patrols
Look out for patrols and obey their ‘Stop’ signs.
Flashing amber lights indicate an active crossing point.
Never overtake near a school crossing, and keep your speed down to stay ready to stop safely.
Defensive Driving for Crossings
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Look well ahead for beacons, signals, and zigzag markings.
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Use the MSM routine early.
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Reduce your speed and anticipate pedestrians, especially near schools or busy areas.