Pedestrian Crossings.

Objective of lesson:  To recognise the various types of crossings, to approach crossing safely, to give the correct signals, to be familiar with the sequence of lights, and to be aware of potentially dangerous situations.

Types of crossings:

Zebra:     Recognised by flashing yellow beacons and black and white stripes on the road.     Pedestrians have priority.                                         Give an arm signal if beneficial to show intention of slowing down or stopping. Some Zebra crossings are split into 2 halves with a central refuge. These are then 2 separate crossings. However, if the road is particularly narrow and someone is already approaching the central refuge then common sense should prevail and the driver should be prepared to stop and give way.  

Pelican:    Recognised  by traffic lights and a yellow box on the post. A red light means stop and if you are the lead vehicle stop just before the line and apply handbrake. You may engage first gear. A flashing amber light means that you may proceed if the crossing is clear. Green means go if it is safe but approach and proceed with caution.

Toucan:   Means 2 can cross - pedestrians and cyclists.  There is no flashing amber in the light sequence. 

Puffin:      This crossing is monitored by sensors which detect when the crossing is clear of pedestrians. As soon as the road is clear the light will change to green to enable the traffic to proceed. Puffins are normally sited on busy routes to enable a better traffic flow.

School Patrol:     Recognised by the lollipop banner. There is often a set of vertical flashing amber lights prior to the vicinity of the crossing but these are usually only sited on busy roads on approach to a school entrance. Around quieter side streets there is no warning other than noticing crowds of children, and mothers, usually with pushchairs arriving to collect their children. Always approach with extreme caution and if instructed to stop do so allowing a good cars length between you and the patrol officer.

4 Must do's when approaching any type of crossing  -                                    Check mirrors and go into MSPSL mode.                                                           Ease off gas.                                                                                                          Be prepared to stop.                                                                                            If stopping at front of queue, apply handbrake,  (you may select 1stgear)

5 Must nots when approaching or waiting at crossings -                                Do not speed up to beat the lights or pedestrians.                                          Do not invite pedestrians to cross.                                                                     Do not rev engine whilst waiting.                                                                        Do not overtake or park between zigzag lines.                                                 Do not block crossing, always keep pedestrian route clear. 

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