Drivers could be fined at a zebra crossing in the UK for making a simple error. You could land a hefty fine and points on your driving licence if you fail to give way at a crossing. If the pedestrian is still on the crossing then you could be fined £100 and land three penalty points. Even if the pedestrian has crossed over to the other side of the crossing than your car you still need to wait for them to exit.
Zebra crossing are common safety features on popular road routes typically near shops, schools or parks.
The Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 says a drive must “look out for pedestrians waiting to cross” and “give way when a pedestrian has moved onto a crossing”.
However, where the rules get ore complicated is when it relates to a pedestrian crossing with an island in the centre of it.
If there is a central refuge then when the pedestrian gets to it you can pass as they are classed as two separate crossings.
Rule 195 of the Highway Code states that “you MUST give way when a pedestrian has moved onto a crossing.”
Rebecca Ashton, head of driver behaviour at IAM RoadSmart, said: “The law states you must give precedence to any pedestrian on the crossing; the regulation itself does not define exactly what that means.
“And so there is some room for interpretation and regional differences. At the very least you must ensure the pedestrian feels that they have been allowed to cross comfortably and safely before making any move.
“If it’s a single crossing and someone steps onto the road from the other side you should stop, however if for example the road is divided by a central reservation or large traffic island, as in many city centres, then the crossings could be treated as if it was two crossings.”
Source: Read Full Article