How to cross the road safely

• What to do if there is no pedestrian crossing
• How to use pedestrian crossings
• Pedestrian crossing traffic signals
• About courtesy crossings

What to do if there is no pedestrian crossing

If there is no pedestrian crossing, cross the road only when it's safe to do so. Always check all nearby roads for vehicles before you cross, and walk quickly straight across the road.

Remember - it takes time for a vehicle to stop. Be sensible and wait for a gap in the traffic before crossing the road.

• When crossing the road at an intersection, remember to check behind and in front for turning vehicles.
• When crossing the road at night, cross near a street light if you can.
• If you get off a bus, wait until it has moved away before checking for moving vehicles.
• If you have to cross the road between parked vehicles, move out as far as the headlight nearest the traffic of one of the parked vehicles. Then check for moving vehicles, and wait for a gap before crossing the road.

How to use pedestrian crossings

• If you're within 20 metres of a pedestrian crossing, you must use the crossing to cross the road.
• You must not step out suddenly onto a pedestrian crossing if any vehicles are so close to the crossing that they can't stop.
• Don't walk slowly on a pedestrian crossing.

Pedestrian crossing traffic signals

There often special traffic signals for pedestrians at crossings at main intersections and busy roads.

Pedestrians must obey these signals rather than the red, yellow and green traffic lights. A buzzer may sometimes sound as well, to indicate that you can cross.

Remember: When a police officer is directing traffic, their signals overrule traffic signals - including pedestrian signals. Obey the directions of the officer.

Courtesy crossings

Courtesy crossings - which are usually made of bricks or paving - are not official pedestrian crossings. The provide a place where motorists can stop safely to allow pedestrians to cross.

However, motorists are not obliged to stop at courtesy crossings, so use them with care.

Page updated: 21 October 2005