Driving around pedestrian and school crossings

Crossings are usually found in areas with lots of people. Stay on the look out for warning signs and road markings to help you.

Where should you practise this?

You can’t guarantee each drive will involve pedestrians crossing your path. To maximise your chances, pick a route close to schools at closing time. 

Tips for pedestrian crossings 

•  Warning signs and road markings will tell you a pedestrian crossing is ahead.
• Look out for pedestrians around the crossing, they may be distracted and not see you.
• Before you drive through a crossing, make sure the way ahead is clear. You need to be able to get your whole car off the crossing.
• As you come up to the crossing slow down and be ready to stop.
• Give way to anyone on the crossing or waiting to use the crossing. Do this by waiting behind the white limit line.
• Don't drive off until the person has crossed in front of you and is clear of your vehicle.

Remember

• If there's a raised traffic island in the middle of the crossing, stop and give way to pedestrians on your half of the road.
• If there's no raised traffic island in the middle of the crossing, stop and give way to pedestrians on any part of the crossing.
• Don't pass other vehicles that have slowed down or stopped at a pedestrian crossing.

Tips for school crossing

• Warning signs and road markings will tell you a school crossing is ahead.
• Look out for children anywhere around the crossing. You can't be sure of what they're going to do so stay on high alert.
• Watch out for cars and school buses picking up or dropping off children.
• School zones can have a lower speed limit during certain hours. This is usually before and after school. 
• As you come up to the crossing slow down and be ready to stop.
• If the school patrol sign is opened onto the road, stop behind the white limit line. Stay stopped until the signs have been pulled in.