90% of drivers fail to identify crossing types

HUNDREDS of drivers landed themselves in trouble for ignoring the rules of the road at pedestrian crossings in the West Midlands in recent years.

Reckless or inconsiderate motorists got more than they bargained for when they were caught by police failing to stop for pedestrians waiting to cross, or stopping on crossings while waiting in traffic.

Traffic must stop for pedestrians waiting at zebra crossings, but it doesn’t always happen. Though drivers were more likely to fall foul of police for stopping on crossings, blocking anyone wanting to get cross the road.

A total of 2,073 motorists were given tickets for stopping on crossings between 2018, and

April 2021, West Midlands Police data showed. These mostly related to pelican crossings, operated by traffic lights. Waiting on crossings, particularly when lights are red, is an offence.

Another 182 drivers were given tickets for failing to stop for red lights at crossings.

It was not just motorists flouting the rules. Two pedestrians were also punished for “remaining within limits of a pelican crossing longer than was necessary”, while three drivers got into trouble for overtaking at a crossing.

The data comes as a new survey by insurers Admiral revealed 90% of drivers could not correctly identify a puffin crossing.

A similar number – 89% – didn’t know what a toucan crossing was, while more than half – 57% – couldn’t identify a pelican crossing.

Most people are familiar with the zebra crossing, though 18% were unable to name it.

Nationally, 6,529 drivers have penalty points on their licence for failing to follow rules at pedestrian crossings. The top causes for near misses at crossings were drivers failing to stop because they were distracted by phones, going too fast or pedestrians failing to look before stepping out. Changes to the Highway Code last year now put pedestrians at the top of the road “hierarchy”, giving them right of way in certain scenarios, such as when stepping into the road to cross at a junction. In this instance, the onus is on the driver to be alert and stop and let them cross.

However, research suggests these changes have caused confusion, with around half unaware of this change to the hierarchy. Lorna Connelly, head of claims at Admiral Car Insurance said: “Having any sort of car accident can be a frightening experience, but when a pedestrian is involved, the implications can be devastating. “What’s worrying about these findings is how little both drivers and pedestrians understand about the designated crossings and what the rules are to safely use them.

“We all have a responsibility to act with caution, and traffic collisions can be catastrophic, so it’s vital we do all we can to keep one another safe.”

What’s worrying is how little drivers and pedestrians understand about the crossings and what the rules are to safely use them. Lorna Conelly, Admiral