The difference between pelican, puffin and zebra crossings

With a growing number of vehicles and the population continuing to rise it's never been more important to be aware of the rules of the road.

One set of rules which both motorists and pedestrians alike need to be aware of is that related to the various types of crossings. While most people will instantly be able to describe what a zebra crossing is it's not the only kind named after a type of animal.

On UK roads there are also crossings named after two species of birds - puffins and pelicans. But do you know which is which?

READ MORE:

• Road by Lancashire primary school will close for resurfacing work

• Blackpool summer roadworks warning as 15-week scheme set to begin on five key routes

Pelican Crossing

Unlike zebra crossings, a pelican crossing is controlled by traffic lights. Pedestrians press a button when they want to cross and wait until the green man shows and the red light stops the traffic – your cue to stop.

If the lights are green then continue as normal, unless people are still crossing then obviously you’d stop. When approaching a pelican crossing always be prepared to stop, even if pedestrians are waiting at the side. The lights are on a timer so could change at any time. The lights change from green to amber and then to red.

After a period of time, the lights will flash to amber, this warns pedestrians that traffic will start moving soon. For you the driver, the flashing amber light means if the crossing is clear you can continue, but if pedestrians remain on the crossing you must wait until they’re safely across the road.

Puffin Crossing

While many people will tell you pelican crossings and puffin crossings are the same, there is a slight difference.

Puffin crossings are controlled by sensors installed on the top of traffic lights. And rather than being controlled by a timer, the sensors detect when pedestrians are crossing which effects the colour of the lights. Once red, the lights will only change back to green when the coast is clear.

Unlike pelican crossings, puffin crossings don’t change to amber after red, instead they jump straight to green so there’s no indecisiveness, simple.

Zebra Crossing

The biggest giveaway for a zebra crossing is the black and white stripes similar to, you guessed it, a zebra. Hence where it gets its name from. You’ll also notice flashing beacons on either side of the road to make them more visible from afar.

It is a legal requirement to stop and give way to pedestrians when they want to cross the road. Failing to do so is a criminal offence which could result in being issued with points on your driving licence.