Pedestrian crossing

Police crossing notice 1868

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Cyclists Crossing Refuge Crossing Onehunga

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Zebra crossing, Rochdale Road, Greetland - geograph.org.uk - 2640706

Pelican crossing on Cuffley Hill (geograph 2443957)

Cycleway Assen G11

Pedestrian subway, Melrose Bypass - geograph.org.uk - 2541584

Pedestrian crossing refers to a designated point on a road, street, or avenue where pedestrians are provided with the right of way to cross from one side to the other. These crossings are crucial for ensuring the safety of pedestrians in areas of high vehicle traffic. They are marked in various ways, including with road surface markings, traffic signals, and signs, to alert drivers to the presence of pedestrians. Pedestrian crossings are an essential part of urban planning and traffic management, aiming to reduce the risk of accidents between vehicles and pedestrians.

Types of Pedestrian Crossings

Several types of pedestrian crossings are used worldwide, each with its specific design and rules for both drivers and pedestrians.

Zebra Crossing

A Zebra Crossing is characterized by alternating dark and light stripes on the road surface, resembling the coat of a zebra. This type of crossing gives pedestrians the right of way once they step onto the crossing. Vehicles must stop to allow them to cross safely.

Pelican Crossing

A Pelican Crossing (Pedestrian Light Controlled Crossing) is controlled by traffic lights that pedestrians activate by pressing a button. Once the lights change to red, vehicles must stop, and pedestrians can cross.

Puffin Crossing

Similar to the Pelican Crossing, a Puffin Crossing (Pedestrian User-Friendly Intelligent) uses sensors to detect when pedestrians are crossing and can adjust the timing of the lights accordingly. This type of crossing is designed to improve efficiency and safety.

Toucan Crossing

A Toucan Crossing is designed for both pedestrians and cyclists to cross the road together. The name "Toucan" is derived from "two-can cross." These crossings are also light-controlled and wider than typical pedestrian crossings.

School Crossing

A School Crossing is often found near schools and is sometimes manned by a crossing guard who stops traffic with a sign to allow children to cross safely. These crossings are critical in ensuring the safety of young pedestrians.

Safety Measures

To enhance the safety of pedestrian crossings, various measures can be implemented, including:

- Installing speed bumps or traffic calming devices nearby to slow down vehicles. - Improving lighting around the crossing area to ensure that pedestrians are visible during nighttime. - Implementing auditory signals for the visually impaired. - Enforcing strict penalties for drivers who fail to yield to pedestrians at crossings.

Legal Aspects

The legal obligations of drivers and pedestrians at crossings vary by jurisdiction but generally include rules such as drivers must stop for pedestrians at zebra crossings and only proceed once the crossing is clear. Pedestrians are usually encouraged to use crossings where available and wait for signals at light-controlled crossings.

Challenges and Considerations

While pedestrian crossings are vital for safety, they also present challenges, such as maintaining the flow of traffic and ensuring compliance from both drivers and pedestrians. Urban planners and traffic engineers must balance these considerations when designing and implementing crossing systems.