Chapter 6: Pedestrian Crossings & Vulnerable Road Users

Why Vulnerable Road Users Matter

Vulnerable road users — pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, horse riders, children, elderly people, and disabled people — account for a disproportionate share of road casualties. In Greater Manchester, pedestrians and cyclists represent approximately 40% of all killed or seriously injured road users despite making up a smaller share of traffic. As a driver, your responsibility towards these groups is both legal and moral.

The 2022 Highway Code update formalised the hierarchy of road users, placing the greatest responsibility on those who can cause the most harm. As a car driver, you have a duty of care towards every road user more vulnerable than you. DriveSQ instructors integrate this principle into every practical lesson.

Types of Pedestrian Crossings

Manchester has five types of pedestrian crossings, and your theory test will include questions on all of them. Each crossing type has different rules for drivers.

Zebra Crossings

Identified by black and white stripes on the road, flashing amber Belisha beacons, and zigzag road markings on the approach. Rules for drivers:

• You must give way to anyone who has stepped onto the crossing
• Since the 2022 Highway Code update, you should give way to anyone waiting to cross
• Never overtake the leading vehicle approaching a zebra crossing
• Never park or stop on the zigzag markings
• Slow down on approach and be prepared to stop — even if no one is visible, a pedestrian may appear

Manchester has zebra crossings throughout residential areas, near schools, and in shopping districts. Didsbury Village, Chorlton, and Levenshulme high street all feature multiple zebra crossings where DriveSQ learners practise.

Pelican Crossings

Traffic light controlled crossings operated by pedestrians pressing a button. The light sequence for drivers is: Green → Amber → Red → Flashing Amber → Green.

The flashing amber phase is unique to pelican crossings. During flashing amber, you may proceed only if the crossing is clear of pedestrians. If anyone is still crossing, you must wait. This is frequently tested in the theory exam.

Puffin Crossings

Similar to pelican crossings but with sensors that detect pedestrians on the crossing. The key difference: puffin crossings have no flashing amber phase. The lights change from red directly to green only after the sensors confirm the crossing is clear. This is safer and increasingly common in Manchester.

Toucan Crossings

Designed for both pedestrians and cyclists to cross together (hence “two can cross”). Toucan crossings are wider than standard crossings and have no zigzag markings. Cyclists are allowed to ride across rather than dismount. Manchester has toucan crossings along cycle route corridors, including sections of the Oxford Road corridor and the Fallowfield Loop.

Pegasus Crossings (Equestrian Crossings)

Designed for horse riders, with a higher-mounted push button and sometimes a separate horse waiting area. Rare in central Manchester but found in more rural parts of Greater Manchester. Your theory test may include a question on these.

The Zigzag Line Rules

The zigzag lines on the approach to and departure from crossings serve a critical safety function:

• You must not park on zigzag lines — Parking here obscures the view of both drivers and pedestrians, creating a dangerous blind spot
• You must not overtake on zigzag lines — The leading vehicle may be slowing for a pedestrian you cannot see
• Zigzag lines apply at zebra, pelican, puffin, and some toucan crossings
• Penalty for parking on zigzag lines: £70 fine and 3 penalty points

Sharing Roads with Cyclists

Manchester has invested significantly in cycling infrastructure through the Bee Network programme. As a driver, you will share roads with cyclists daily, and understanding the rules is essential:

Passing Distances

• At speeds up to 30mph: leave at least 1.5 metres gap when overtaking a cyclist
• At speeds above 30mph: leave at least 2 metres
• If there is not enough space to pass safely, wait behind until space opens up

Cyclist Road Position

Since the 2022 Highway Code update, cyclists may ride in the centre of their lane on quieter roads, in slower traffic, and approaching junctions. This is legal and correct — do not honk, flash, or drive aggressively. They are positioning for their safety.

Cycle Lanes in Manchester

• Solid white line — Mandatory cycle lane. Do not drive or park in it during operational hours
• Dashed white line — Advisory cycle lane. Avoid driving in it unless necessary
• Protected cycle lanes — Physically separated from motor traffic (Oxford Road, parts of Wilmslow Road). Never enter these

The Dutch Reach

The Highway Code now recommends the Dutch Reach technique when opening your car door: use the hand furthest from the door handle. This naturally turns your body, making you look over your shoulder for approaching cyclists before the door opens. In Manchester, where many residential streets have parked cars alongside cycle traffic, this habit can prevent serious injuries.

Driving Near Children

Children are the most unpredictable road users. They may run into the road without looking, step from between parked cars, or chase a ball into traffic. Key rules:

• Slow down near schools — Manchester’s 20mph school zones exist because children are present
• Watch for the school crossing patrol — You MUST stop when the lollipop person displays their sign, regardless of whether children are crossing
• Be extra alert near parks and playgrounds — Children playing near roads can suddenly enter the carriageway
• Ice cream vans — Children may run across the road to reach an ice cream van without looking

Driving Near Elderly and Disabled People

Elderly pedestrians may take longer to cross roads, may not see or hear approaching traffic clearly, and may walk more slowly than younger pedestrians. Give them extra time at crossings — never rev your engine or creep forward impatiently.

Disabled people may use mobility scooters, wheelchairs, or guide dogs. Mobility scooters can travel on the road at up to 8mph. Treat them as you would a cyclist — give space, be patient, overtake only when safe.

Driving Near Motorcyclists

Motorcyclists are vulnerable because they are smaller and less visible than cars. Key rules:

• Always check mirrors and blind spots for motorcycles before changing lanes or turning
• Motorcycles can legally filter through traffic — check your mirrors before opening doors or changing position in slow traffic
• At junctions, look specifically for motorcycles — their narrow profile makes them easy to miss against a busy background
• Wet weather dramatically reduces motorcycle grip — give them extra space on Manchester’s frequently wet roads