A Learner Drivers Guide to a Pelican Crossing

There are four main types of road crossings in the UK. You’ll need to know the rules around each one and what to do as a driver to pass your driving test and take to the road with confidence. The first of these is pelican crossings. Pelican crossings might sound strange but there’s nothing to worry about once you know how they work. 

After reading this guide you’ll know exactly what they are and how to drive through one. You’ll be able to impress the examiner when you encounter one while on your driving test and take to the challenge with ease. 

What is a Pelican Crossing?

A pelican crossing is a pedestrian-activated traffic signal that helps guarantee safe crossing by stopping vehicles with a traffic light system. Introduced in the UK in 1969, these crossings are triggered when pedestrians press a button on the control panel.

You’ll notice a set of traffic lights and zig-zag lines before and after the crossing, which signal drivers to be cautious. As a learner driver, you must stop when the lights turn red and wait for pedestrians to cross. The flashing amber phase alerts you to give way if pedestrians are still on the road.

Even if there’s a central refuge island, staggered crossings count as separate crossings, and you should wait accordingly. Prioritising pedestrian safety is the most important part both as a driver and as someone taking the exam. 

How Does a Pelican Crossing Work?

Pressing the button on a pelican crossing’s control panel activates the traffic lights to change. This guarantees a safe way for pedestrians to cross busy roads. Once activated, the traffic lights will turn red, which signals vehicles to stop. Pedestrians will then see a green man signal, indicating it’s safe to cross.

After a set period, the green man starts flashing, alerting pedestrians to finish crossing. At the same time, the traffic light for drivers changes to a flashing amber, indicating them to give way if pedestrians are still on the crossing. This system is made so that both pedestrians and drivers know when it’s safe to proceed.

What are the Rules for Pelican Crossings?

When approaching a pelican crossing, you must stop at the stop line when the traffic lights turn red. It is this simple yet crucial rule that allows pedestrians to cross safely. Pay attention to the signals, and be prepared to stop when the amber light starts flashing, as this indicates the lights are about to change.

Remember, pedestrians have the right of way according to the Highway Code. This also means that you should never block the pedestrian crossing, even if traffic is stationary. At larger roads with a central island, treat the entire length as one crossing. 

Pedestrians are the ones in charge of activating crossing signals and failing to stop at a red light as a driver can result in severe penalties. Generally, this comes in the form of receiving penalty points on your licence and/or a fine.

Practical Tips for Learner Drivers

Now that you have a better understanding of how pelican crossings work, it’s time to get you ready for your driving test. 

Pelican crossings can make learner drivers nervous because the lights can change at any moment. However, once you know what to do it will be so easy to navigate you won’t have to worry about anything. 

Gain confidence in your ability to conquer pelican crossings by following these tips:

Learn to Recognise a Pelican Crossing

Spot a pelican crossing by looking for traffic lights accompanied by zig-zag lines on the road. These lines mark the controlled area where stopping and parking are prohibited. 

You’ll also notice control panels on both sides of the road, where pedestrians press the button to change the signal. 

Gain Experience in How to Approach the Crossing

Always approach a pelican crossing with care and readiness to stop, even if the traffic light is green. Slow down as you get closer, keeping an eye on the traffic lights and for pedestrians waiting on either side of the road

If the amber light starts flashing be prepared to stop as this indicates the lights are changing. Always consider the traffic conditions behind you, so you don’t brake abruptly. Maintain a safe speed to make sure you can stop in time before reaching the crossing.

Be Mindful of the Traffic Lights

When you’re at the crossing, make sure to stop behind the white line and wait for the pedestrians to cross safely. Be mindful of the flashing amber light which means you should give way to pedestrians still in the crossing. 

If the road is clear of pedestrians while the amber light is flashing, you may start driving again. But be aware that getting this wrong and moving away too early can result in receiving a major fault from the examiner. 

On the flip side, if the road is empty and you’re waiting for the green light needlessly, you may still receive a minor as you’re holding up traffic. However, if you’re unsure, it’s always best to air on the side of caution. That way, both the car and pedestrians can remain safe.

Remain Calm in Unexpected Situations

There may be some moments when a pelican crossing involves unexpected elements that may cause you to change your driving approach. Being aware of these situations ahead of time will help you navigate them with ease if they appear in your driving test.

The most common two situations that may occur at a pelican crossing are:

• Hesitant Pedestrians: If you notice a pedestrian hesitating or appearing unsure, it's safer to wait until they have made a clear decision. Drive only when you are certain the crossing is empty.
• Emergency Vehicles: If an emergency vehicle approaches while you are at the crossing, remain stationary unless it is safe and necessary to clear the path. Ensure you do not endanger pedestrians by moving unpredictably. 

Alternate Pedestrian Crossings

In the UK, pelican crossings aren’t the only pedestrian crossings named after a bird. There are various other crossings that you may encounter as a driver, especially while performing your driving exam. Knowing the differences between them all can help you remain confident when encountering them on the roads.

Pelican vs Puffin Crossing

Although they look similar in execution, puffin crossings are more technologically advanced than pelican crossings as they use sensors to detect pedestrian movement. This means lights remain red until pedestrians have safely crossed rather than flashing red. 

Additionally, unlike pelican crossings, puffin crossings have instruction lights on the same side as pedestrians.

Toucan Crossing vs Pelican Crossing

Toucan crossings are designed to be wider than pelican crossings to allow cyclists and pedestrians to cross simultaneously. Thus, they are typically found near parks or along cycle lanes.

In contrast to pelican crossings, toucan crossings don’t have a flashing amber phase. Instead, they use standard traffic light sequences, making it clear when you should stop and when it’s safe to proceed. 

Zebra Crossing vs Pelican Crossing

Zebra crossings are named for the black and white stripes on the road that denote where pedestrians will walk. They are also marked with flashing orange beacons on the side of the road. Aside from these beacons, there are no traffic lights and they rely on drivers to stop when pedestrians approach the roadside. 

Want to Practice Before Your Driving Test?

If you’re looking to get some more practical driving experience before your driving test, book a driving lesson with EzLicence. 

We provide an extensive list of accredited driving instructors in your area to pick from any time you’re interested in practising. It’s as simple as choosing a time and date on the EzLicence website and hitting that ‘book’ button. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do they call it a pelican crossing?

The name "pelican crossing" comes from "PEdestrian LIght CONtrolled," abbreviated as PELICON, which was then adjusted to "pelican" to make it memorable and relatable to the UK public.

What are the four types of crossings?

The four main types of pedestrian crossings in the UK are zebra, pelican, puffin, and toucan crossings.

Which light won't show at a puffin crossing?

At a puffin crossing, you won't see a flashing amber light; the lights for drivers go directly from red to green.

Can you fail to stop at a red light at a pelican crossing?

Yes, failing to stop at a red light at a pelican crossing can result in failing your driving test and possibly receiving a fine and penalty points on your driving license.

Are pelican crossings being phased out?

Yes, pelican crossings are being gradually replaced by puffin crossings, which use sensors and are generally considered safer and more efficient.

How do you identify a pelican crossing?

A pelican crossing can be identified by its traffic lights and a push-button for pedestrians to control the lights, along with zigzag lines on the road leading up to it.

What are the colours on a puffin crossing?

At a puffin crossing, you'll see the standard traffic light colours: red and green for both vehicles and pedestrians, but no flashing amber light, as used in pelican crossings.