Zebra
This is the crossing which is not traffic light controlled. It can be recognised from a distance by flashing yellow beacons on both sides of the road and black and white stripes on the crossing.
The zigzag lines either side of the crossing indicate the area within which it is illegal to park or overtake. Parking is not allowed here because it would limit the view of approaching drivers and pedestrians. Overtaking is not allowed because the overtaking vehicle might not see a pedestrian using the crossing.
There is also a ‘give way’ line just before the crossing to indicate where waiting vehicles should stop.
Some zebra crossings may have a central refuge for pedestrians to wait in safety in the middle of the road.
Crossings with a central refuge should be regarded as being separate crossings on each side of the road.
When you see the crossing, check your mirrors to look for vehicles who may be close behind - this is important, you may have to stop and, if there are vehicles close behind, you may need to brake more gently and earlier than normal.
Check the crossing for pedestrians. If people are using it and will not have cleared the whole crossing by the time you get there, you must stop at the give way line and wait until they reached the pavement or central refuge.
Even if pedestrians are not actually using the crossing, check to see if there is anyone approaching. If so, slow down and stop to allow them to cross. You are only legally obliged to stop for a pedestrian who actually has their foot on the crossing, but you should also stop for anyone waiting to use it - this is not only polite, it avoids the possibility of them stepping unexpectedly in front of the car.
The key is good forward planning. Practice this on your lesson.
