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Driver dilemma

The difference between zebra and pelican crossings: a simpleton's guide

And what to do when approaching them.

PELICAN CROSSINGS DIFFER from zebra crossings in that the flow of traffic is controlled by traffic lights (PEdestrian LIght CONtrolled crossing). Pedestrians press a button and wait until the traffic lights turn red to signal the cars to stop and they proceed to cross the road when the green man illuminates.

When motorists see a flashing amber light at a pelican crossing they must proceed with caution and must yield to pedestrians already crossing the junction. Red and green lights are treated as usual.

A zebra crossing is identified by black and white ‘zebra’ road markings and a flashing amber beacon.

Pedestrians claim priority at a crossing by putting a foot on road and waiting until it is safe to cross. Motorists must give way to pedestrians on or at a zebra crossing (even if they are only waiting to cross). Motorists must also give way to pedestrians who are already crossing the road.

The yellow or white zig-zag lines at a zebra crossing means that there is no overtaking or parking.

You are not allowed wholly or partly to park on a zebra or pelican crossing or at pedestrian lights.

Do you know how far away you should park from a pedestrian crossing or zebra crossing on a two way street and one way street?

The answer is 15 metres on a two-way street and on a one-way street it is 15 metres before and five metres after.

If you didn’t already know this information, might I suggest you do all road users a favour and have a read of the Rules of the Road before you get back in your car and head out on the road again. Please and thank you.

READ: Review – the Kia Stinger GT is beautiful and brilliant and a blast to drive >

READ: How bad does the weather have to be before you use fog lights? >

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