Pedestrian crossingUnited Kingdom
Traffic rules
United Kingdom
21. Pedestrian crossing
A pedestrian crossing is a designated place where pedestrians may cross a road. It is commonly indicated by road markings, traffic signs, signals or a combination of these measures.
Drivers must approach with appropriate caution and give way when required by local law. Pedestrians must also observe approaching traffic and follow any pedestrian signals or instructions from authorised traffic controllers.
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When must drivers give way at a pedestrian crossing in Great Britain?
At a zebra crossing, drivers must give way to pedestrians already on the crossing and should give way to people waiting. At a signal-controlled crossing, obey the traffic lights and allow people already crossing to finish.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code: Rules 191–199: crossings, queues and green signals
Are all pedestrian crossings controlled the same way in Great Britain?
A zebra crossing and a signal-controlled pelican, puffin or toucan crossing do not have the same rules. At a toucan crossing, cyclists can cross with pedestrians when their signal permits it.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code: Rules 191–199: crossings, queues and green signals
May I enter a pedestrian crossing if the road beyond it is blocked in Great Britain?
Do not queue on the crossing or conceal pedestrians from approaching drivers. Wait before entering until there is space to clear the crossing, and do not overtake or pass a vehicle that has stopped for a pedestrian where that would endanger anyone.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code: Rules 191–199: crossings, queues and green signals
What should I do if a pedestrian is still crossing when the traffic signal changes in Great Britain?
Allow the pedestrian to finish crossing safely. A green vehicle signal is not permission to drive into someone who is still in the crossing; watch particularly for pedestrians obscured by turning or queued vehicles.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code: Rules 191–199: crossings, queues and green signals
Does a central island split a British zebra crossing?
Yes. Treat each half separately; check again from the island.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain, Highway Code, rules 20, 23, 26, 28 and 29, GOV.UK
How should pedestrians use staggered British pelican or puffin crossings?
Treat them as separate crossings. Press again on the island and await steady green.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain, Highway Code, rules 20, 23, 26, 28 and 29, GOV.UK
Where should pedestrians cross at a British school crossing patrol?
In front of the patrol, only when signalled to cross.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain, Highway Code, rules 20, 23, 26, 28 and 29, GOV.UK
Does an island split a straight-across British pelican crossing?
No. It remains one crossing; drivers must wait for pedestrians coming from beyond the island.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain, Highway Code, rules 195–197, GOV.UK
Should British drivers wave pedestrians across a zebra crossing?
No. Waving, flashing headlights or sounding the horn could invite them into another vehicle’s path.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain, Highway Code, rules 195–197, GOV.UK
