Crosswalk Types in the UK: A Breakdown of Zebra, Toucan, and Tiger Crossings
In the bustling streets of Britain, pedestrian crossings play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of road users. Here's a breakdown of the main types of pedestrian crossings found in the UK, their features, and the rules for both pedestrians and drivers.
Zebra Crossings, marked by black and white stripes on the road with flashing yellow Belisha beacons, are the most common form of pedestrian crossing. Unique to zebra crossings is that pedestrians have automatic priority once they step onto the crossing or wait at the crossing. However, it's essential to exercise caution, as not all drivers may yield promptly.
Pelican, Puffin, Toucan, Pegasus, and Tiger crossings use traffic signals, and both pedestrians and drivers must obey the lights strictly. Pressing the button on a pelican crossing activates the traffic signals, but pedestrians should not cross when the red figure is illuminated. In contrast, Puffin crossings use sensors to indicate when the crossing is clear to release the traffic.
Toucan crossings, designed for both pedestrians and cyclists to cross simultaneously, are similar to Puffin crossings but wider with combined signals. Pedestrians and cyclists cross when the green signal is shown.
Pegasus crossings, designed for horse riders as well as pedestrians, have higher-mounted buttons and signals for horses. Horses and pedestrians cross when the signal shows.
Authorised Person Crossings are controlled by a person (e.g., school crossing patrol) rather than signals. Pedestrians must follow the instructions of the authorised person to cross safely.
Tiger Crossings, a newer crossing type for both pedestrians and cyclists with distinct parallel paths, ensure the safety of all road users. Pedestrians and cyclists cross in their respective lanes when signals allow.
It's essential for pedestrians and cyclists to check that the traffic has stopped before they start to cross the road, and for drivers to obey the crossing signals and watch for vulnerable road users. Failing to stop at crossings where pedestrians have right of way can lead to prosecution under road traffic laws.
Each crossing type has its visual cues and operational characteristics. If you require more specific details, feel free to ask! Remember, the ultimate goal is to make our roads safer for everyone.
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