Question

Difficulty: MediumOlder and Disabled People

At a pelican crossing, a driver is permitted to proceed during the flashing amber light phase if an older pedestrian is still on the crossing but has moved past the path of the driver's vehicle.

Answer: Answer

Answer

False
Under Highway Code Rule 196, a flashing amber signal at a pelican crossing requires drivers to give way to any pedestrians who are still on the crossing. Drivers must wait until the entire crossing is clear before proceeding. Older and vulnerable pedestrians may take longer to cross, may misjudge approaching traffic, or may turn back unexpectedly, making it dangerous to move off prematurely.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the crossing type and traffic light phase described in the scenario.
The situation involves a pelican crossing displaying a flashing amber signal while a pedestrian remains on the carriageway.
Pelican crossings feature a unique flashing amber phase following the red signal that governs driver movement relative to pedestrians.
2
Apply the relevant UK Highway Code rule regarding the flashing amber signal and vulnerable road users.
Highway Code Rule 196 states that drivers must give way to any pedestrian on the crossing and may only proceed once the crossing is completely clear.
Older pedestrians may walk slowly, have reduced hearing or eyesight, or become confused and unexpectedly reverse their direction.
3
Evaluate the statement's validity against the legal requirement.
The statement asserts that a driver may move off while a pedestrian is still on the crossing, which directly violates the rule.
Drivers must never rush vulnerable road users or drive across a crossing before all pedestrians have stepped safely onto the pavement.

Key Concept

Pelican crossing regulations and patience for older pedestrians
Estimated Time:45s
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