Maybe you’ve noticed, but not all road crossings are created equal. They differ in terms of symbols, rules and even noises. There are 5 main types of pedestrian crossing, with a couple of extra variations to consider. The main ones are named after animals—because we’re fun like that in the UK!
If you’re learning to drive or looking to refresh your knowledge of the road, make sure you get to grips with the following road crossing types.
This one is probably the most common crossing you'll come across during your course. Named because of the stripes on the road that distinguish them from other crossings, zebras give priority to pedestrians. You can also spot them from afar by their flashing yellow Belisha beacons. The approach to the crossing (as is the case with most) is marked by white zigzag lines.
As a driver:
As a pedestrian:
Pelican crossings come with all the extras: lights, activation buttons, sounds (oh my!). The name is a shortened version of Pedestrian Light Indication. By pressing the button at the side of the road, pedestrians control the flow of traffic. Unlike other crossings, the red light will be followed by a flashing amber light. Pelicans are the OG of traffic light crossings, with the red and green men positioned next to the lights on the opposite side of the road.
As a driver:
As a pedestrian:
A slightly smarter version of the pelican crossing, puffin is short for Pedestrian User Friendly Intelligent crossings (doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue, does it?). Not only do these crossings have activation buttons, they are also equipped with sensors that detect when pedestrians are present. The green and red man symbols are positioned at the side of the crossing, rather than on the opposite side of the road.
As a driver:
As a pedestrian:
These are like puffin crossings, but they serve pedestrians and cyclists. They are noticeably wider than pelican and puffin crossings in order to accommodate bikes (because here, ‘two-can’ cross). As you would expect, these crossings are commonly found near parks and cycle lanes.
As a driver:
As a pedestrian:
Pegasus crossings are designed to allow horses to cross the road, as well as pedestrians and/or cyclists. Buttons are usually located slightly higher up than on normal lights, to make it easier for riders to reach them.
As a driver:
As a pedestrian:
During school hours (anytime between 8am and 5:30pm) you might see a lollipop person manning a crossing. They may station themselves at a Zebra crossing, or indeed any part of a road that is a popular crossing point. These patrollers have the authority to stop any traffic, so you must act according to their signals.
This is the term given to the pavements that provide a place for pedestrians to stand in the middle of particularly large or busy roads. If crossings are staggered by islands, it’s safer to treat them as two separate crossings (especially if they are not directly in line with one another).
The most important thing to remember at crossings, whether pedestrian or driver, is to always look and check both ways—people can be unpredictable. Furthermore, outside circumstances may cause behaviour that is not in accordance with the official rules. It takes a certain amount of instinct and common sense (which you'll pick up over time and with more driving lessons) to avoid car accidents. Understanding and following the rules of the road is a good place to start!
We'd love to let you know about our courses, news and offers via email. You may unsubscribe at any time.