How to Safely Navigate a Pelican Crossing: A Beginner’s Guide

Pelican crossings are a common sight on UK roads, yet many new drivers and learners often find them confusing. Understanding how to navigate a pelican crossing safely and confidently is an essential part of becoming a responsible road user.

In this beginner’s guide, we’ll explain what a pelican crossing is, how it differs from other types of pedestrian crossings, and what drivers should do when approaching one.

What Is a Pelican Crossing?

A Pelican crossing (short for Pedestrian light-controlled crossing) is a type of pedestrian crossing that features traffic lights operated by pedestrians. When someone wants to cross, they press a button which triggers a sequence of traffic light changes to stop vehicles and allow safe crossing.

What makes this crossing unique is its flashing amber light phase, which is not found at all types of crossings.

How Does a Pelican Crossing Work?

1. Pedestrian presses the button: When someone wants to cross, they press the button on the control box.

2. Traffic lights change: After a short wait, the traffic lights will change from green to amber to red.

3. Pedestrian green man: Pedestrians see a green man symbol and begin to cross.

4. Flashing amber: After a set period, the red light changes to a flashing amber light.

5. Drivers may proceed: Vehicles can move forward only if the crossing is clear.

Key Rules for Drivers at Pelican Crossings

• Approach with caution: Always slow down when approaching a pelican crossing, especially if pedestrians are nearby.

• Stop at red: If the traffic light is red, stop and let pedestrians cross.

• Flashing amber means wait: During the flashing amber phase, you may proceed only if no pedestrians are still crossing.

• Do not overtake: Never overtake the lead vehicle near a pelican crossing.

• Keep the crossing clear: Never stop your vehicle on the crossing, even in slow-moving traffic.

How do Pelican Crossings Differ from Other Crossings?

• Puffin Crossings: Use sensors to detect pedestrians, eliminating the flashing amber phase.

• Zebra Crossings: No traffic lights; vehicles must give way to pedestrians waiting to cross.

• Toucan Crossings: Allow both pedestrians and cyclists to cross.

Pelican crossings are the only ones that include the flashing amber light, making them unique in terms of driver response.

Tips for Learner Drivers

• Practice observation: Always look out for pedestrians approaching crossings.

• Know the light sequences: Understand when you must stop and when it’s safe to go.

• Stay calm: Don’t rush through a flashing amber light if someone is still on the crossing.

At Shah Driving School, we help new drivers build confidence with all road types and conditions—including navigating crossings like a pro.

Conclusion

Understanding how to navigate a pelican crossing is essential for staying safe and passing your driving test. Always follow the signals, be alert to pedestrians, and know the difference between a solid red and a flashing amber light.

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