Using the road near pedestrian crossings. 31/01/17

All UK drivers should remind themselves of the Highway Code from time to time.

Hundreds of car accidents occur at pelican pedestrian crossings every year, so it is important to remember how to drive safely when you approach one and what exactly the traffic signals mean.

Firstly and most obviously, you must always STOP if the crossing lights show red regardless of whether there is a pedestrian waiting to cross or not.

If the amber light is flashing you must wait and give way to any pedestrians on the crossing.

When the amber light is flashing and there are no pedestrians on the crossing you can then proceed, but with caution.

You must not park on a crossing or in the area covered by the zig-zag lines. You must not overtake the moving vehicle nearest the crossing or the vehicle nearest the crossing which has stopped to give way to pedestrians.

In queuing traffic, you should keep the crossing clear.

You should take extra care where the view of either side of the crossing is blocked by queuing traffic or incorrectly parked vehicles. Pedestrians may be crossing between stationary vehicles.

Allow pedestrians plenty of time to cross and do not harass them by revving your engine or edging forward.


All content is believed to be correct at time of publication.