Making Sense of the Different Types of Pedestrian Crossings |
Posted: December 6, 2022 |
It’s not until you begin learning to drive that you realise just how many different types of crossing, road markings and general complexities there are for motorists to navigate. Pedestrian crossings can be particularly perplexing, of which there are at least seven different types to get to grips with. Of course, the general rules in all instances remain the same. Approach with caution, keep your speed sensible, and ensure pedestrians are given the right of way (where appropriate to do so). Pedestrian crossings take a broad range of different forms, but in all instances work in a fairly similar way. Pedestrians waiting at any formal type of crossing always have the right of way, making it illegal to drive through such crossing where pedestrians are crossing, or waiting to cross. Here are some of the most common types of pedestrian crossings you will encounter, both while learning to drive and while enjoying your newfound freedom on the roads: Zebra Crossing The most common and basic type of crossing is the zebra crossing, consisting of a series of black and white sections painted across the road. Zebra crossings are almost always preceded by a sign warning motorists in advance, and in all instances give approaching and waiting members of the public right of way over passing traffic. Zebra crossings are a common feature in residential areas, where speed limits of traffic volumes are comparatively low. Toucan Crossing A toucan crossing features two different sets of buttons for cyclists and pedestrians, allowing the two to cross separately. Some toucan crossings feature the red and green person symbol to indicate when to cross, while others do not. Pelican Crossing Pelican crossings work in a similar way to zebra crossings, but are designed with additional features to assist individuals with mobility issues. There is a button that can be pushed to request to cross, resulting in a red light for traffic and a green light for pedestrians. The green light also stays lit for a longer period of time, to give those with mobility issues plenty of time to cross. Puffin Crossing The difference between a pelican crossing and a puffin crossing lies simply in the way the lights are controlled. Push buttons are activated manually by pedestrians, but there are sensors installed on top of the lights that control their timings automatically. The sensors detect when pedestrians have finished crossing, after which drivers are given the green light to continue. This differs from other types of crossings, where pedestrians are given the green light for a set period of time. Toucan Crossing Toucan crossings are similar to pelican crossings but have two separate sets of push buttons for pedestrians and cyclists. This allows cyclists to cross separately from pedestrians, which can help prevent conflict between the two groups. Some toucan crossings also have a red and green man signal, like a puffin crossing. Pegasus Crossing A Pegasus crossing is predominantly the same as a toucan crossing, though also makes allowances for individuals riding horses. The crossing is engineered to detect when people are waiting to cross or have already started crossing, but will usually be wider to accommodate riders on horseback. There will also be an additional set of buttons positioned higher up, so that they can be reached by horse riders. School Crossing School crossings are those installed close to schools and similar facilities where children need to cross roads on a regular basis. They may or may not be accompanied by a patrol office (aka crossing guard), who will walk out into the road before and signal for the children to cross safely. All of this is important to know when you are learning to drive! Take driving lessons in manchester today and get in touch with Adams Driver Trainer.
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