Comprehensive Guide to Approaching and Driving Through Pedestrian Crossings in Great Britain

Pedestrian crossings in the UK are designed to protect people on foot, and drivers must follow strict rules when approaching them. This guide covers all types of crossings, correct procedures, and legal requirements under the Highway Code.

1. Types of Pedestrian Crossings in the UK

There are six main types of pedestrian crossings in Great Britain:

Zebra Crossings (black & white stripes with flashing yellow beacons)
Pelican Crossings (traffic light-controlled with a green/red man signal)
Puffin Crossings (sensor-controlled, no flashing phase)
Toucan Crossings (shared by pedestrians and cyclists)
Pegasus Crossings (for horse riders)
School Crossings (patrolled by a lollipop person)

Each has different rules, but the key principle is always: give way to pedestrians.

2. General Rules for All Pedestrian Crossings

You MUST stop if someone is crossing (Rule 195).
Do not wave pedestrians across—it can be dangerous if another vehicle doesn’t stop.
Never overtake just before a crossing.
Do not park on or near a crossing (Rule 243).
Watch for cyclists (especially at Toucan crossings).

3. Approaching a Pedestrian Crossing (MSM Routine)

Use the Mirror-Signal-Manoeuvre (MSM) routine:

Step 1: Mirrors

Check rear-view and side mirrors for traffic behind.
Be aware of cyclists or motorcyclists filtering.

Step 2: Signal (if needed)

If slowing down or stopping, a brake light signal is usually sufficient.
No need to indicate unless changing lanes.

Step 3: Manoeuvre (Slowing & Stopping)

Reduce speed smoothly when approaching.
Be prepared to stop if someone is waiting or crossing.
Never block the crossing if traffic is queuing ahead.

4. Specific Rules for Each Crossing Type

A. Zebra Crossings

No traffic lights—pedestrians have priority once they step onto the crossing.
Flashing yellow beacons (Belisha beacons) mark the crossing.
You MUST stop if a pedestrian is waiting or crossing (Rule 195).
Do not encourage pedestrians to cross by waving.

B. Pelican Crossings

Traffic light-controlled (red/amber/green).
Flashing amber phase: You may proceed only if the crossing is clear.
Steady amber: Prepare to stop (same as normal traffic lights).
Green man = pedestrians cross, red man = pedestrians should not cross (but some may still be finishing).

C. Puffin Crossings

Sensors detect pedestrians, so lights change based on need.
No flashing amber—just red, amber, green.
Wait until lights turn green even if the crossing looks clear.

D. Toucan Crossings

Used by both pedestrians and cyclists.
Wider than Pelican/Puffin crossings.
Cyclists may ride across (unlike other crossings where they should dismount).

E. Pegasus Crossings

Designed for horse riders.
Higher-mounted buttons for riders to press.
Allow extra space—horses can be unpredictable.

F. School Crossings

Patrolled by a crossing guard (lollipop person).
You MUST stop when the guard signals (Rule 87).
20mph zones often apply near schools.

5. Common Mistakes & Penalties

Mistake	Penalty
❌ Failing to stop for pedestrians	£100 fine & 3 penalty points
❌ Overtaking within the zigzag lines	illegal, £100 fine
❌ Blocking the crossing in traffic	can lead to a fixed penalty
❌ Ignoring a school crossing patrol	fine + points

6. Emergency Vehicles & Pedestrian Crossings

If an emergency vehicle approaches, do not drive through a red light or endanger pedestrians.
Wait until safe to move aside.

7. Key Highway Code Rules

Rule 191: Do not park on or near a crossing.
Rule 195: Always give way to pedestrians on Zebra crossings.
Rule 196: Stop for Pelican/Puffin crossings when lights are red.
Rule 87: Obey school crossing patrols.

Final Tips for Safe Driving Near Crossings

✔ Slow down early when approaching any crossing.
✔ Look for pedestrians waiting (especially children and elderly).
✔ Never assume a pedestrian has seen you.
✔ Be extra cautious at night (visibility is reduced).

By following these rules, you’ll keep pedestrians safe and avoid penalties.

Would you like any clarification on a specific type of crossing?