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Question

Difficulty: HardOlder and Disabled People

Traffic lights at a pelican crossing begin flashing amber while a pedestrian using a walking aid is still only halfway across the carriageway. Which action must you take?

  1. A
    Flash your headlights to indicate that the pedestrian should hurry across the road
  2. B
    Edge forward past the stop line to encourage the pedestrian to clear your lane quickly
  3. Wait patiently behind the stop line until the pedestrian has completely cleared the crossingAnswer
  4. D
    Steer around the pedestrian into the oncoming lane as soon as your side of the road appears clear

Answer

Wait patiently behind the stop line until the pedestrian has completely cleared the crossing
At a pelican crossing, the flashing amber phase means drivers MUST give way to any pedestrians who are already on the crossing. Older people and those using walking aids require extra time and patience, so drivers must remain stationary behind the stop line until the pedestrian has completely reached the opposite pavement.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Recognize the signal phase and the presence of a vulnerable road user on the crossing.
Identify that a flashing amber light at a pelican crossing means priority must be given to any pedestrians already on the carriageway.
Highway Code Rule 196 explicitly mandates giving way to pedestrians when the amber light is flashing.
2
Assess the pedestrian's physical mobility and crossing pace.
Acknowledge that older pedestrians and individuals using walking aids need additional time to traverse the road safely.
Vulnerable road users may have reduced mobility, reaction time, or spatial awareness and must never be pressured or rushed.
3
Maintain a stationary position behind the stop line without revving the engine or signalling to the pedestrian.
The crossing remains safe and clear of vehicular movement until the pedestrian safely steps onto the opposite pavement.
Drivers may only proceed once the crossing is entirely clear, even if the light remains flashing amber.

Key Concept

Highway Code regulations on pelican crossings and duties towards pedestrians with restricted mobility
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Older and Disabled People

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