Zebra Crossings
A General Guide
Introduction
Zebra crossings are formal crossings where the pedestrian is
given legal priority over vehicles without the use of traffic
signal controls. They are a relatively low cost option compared
with signal-controlled crossings.
Layout
A Zebra crossing is marked on the carriageway with alternate black
and white stripes. Studs and `Give Way’ markings outline the
crossing, and zig-zags replace centre and kerb side markings on
either side of the crossing. These highlight the crossing and
prohibit parking to ensure good visibility. Flashing yellow beacons
are placed at each end of the crossing.
Pedestrian approaches to the crossing must have red tactile
surfacing and flush kerbs. Footway build-outs can be used to
highlight waiting pedestrians, and reduce carriageway width. Where
the carriageway is particularly wide, a pedestrian refuge is
recommended. Where traffic calming exists, the crossing could be
sited on a `flat-top’ hump level with the footway.
The crossing may need extra illumination. High skid resistance
surfacing may be laid on the approaches to the crossing where
considered appropriate and advanced warning signs should be
used
The layout of Zebra crossings is governed by regulations laid
down by the Department for Transport.
Location
Site assessments are carried out to determine the need for a
crossing, to select the appropriate type of crossing and to ensure
safe location.
Zebra crossings should not be used on roads with high traffic
volumes and/or high traffic speeds. This is due to the fact that
pedestrians:
- could find it difficult to establish priority and therefore may
experience significant
delays
- would be at greater risk of injury leading to under use of the
crossing.
In these cases a signal-controlled crossing would be
appropriate. Zebra crossings may also be inappropriate where
pedestrian flows would dominate the crossing and cause delay to
traffic. Signal-controlled crossings are also preferred where there
is a high proportion of disabled or elderly users.
Other factors considered when siting all types of crossing
include:
-
pedestrian/driver visibility
-
location of bus stops
-
location of side roads and entrances
-
waiting/loading restrictions or activities
-
existing street furniture
-
other traffic signals or crossings
Zebras should be located on or as near to the route the
pedestrian would naturally follow (the desire line). Installing a
crossing away from the desire line could lead to lower use of the
facility, increasing the risk of accidents near to, but not on the
crossing. Where a pedestrian desire line cannot be identified,
informal pedestrian facilities such as a series of road narrowings
and/or pedestrian refuges may be more appropriate. In some cases it
may even be safer not to provide pedestrian facilities.
Formal crossings are not recommended on roads where traffic is
relatively light. In such situations pedestrians tend to cross the
road where they like rather than using a crossing which may take
them out of their way.
Safety
- Drivers should approach Zebra crossings cautiously as any
pedestrian who steps out on the crossing has
priority.
- Pedestrians should allow vehicles to stop at the crossing
before stepping out onto the carriageway.
- Crossing close to, but not on, the Zebra (i.e. in the zig-zag
area) is very dangerous, as drivers are focusing on the crossing
itself and are not expecting pedestrians to cross
elsewhere.
- Parking on zig-zags is not permitted for any reason, as the
consequent restriction to visibility puts pedestrians crossing at a
greater risk.
This information has been reproduced by kind permission of
Bristol City Council
