Vulnerable Road Users Flashcards
What are the types of pedestrian crossing?
- zebra crossing : slow down if you see someone preparing to cross
- pelican crossing : light controlled, give way when lights are red or flashing amber.
- puffin crossing : sensor controlled, lights don’t change until crossing is clear
- toucan crossing : like a puffin but bikes also cross
How should you drive near a school?
A school warning sign may have flashing amber lights underneath it. This is to show that children are often in the area and likely to be crossing the road on their way to or from school. You should slow down until you’re completely clear of the area.
As with road crossings, you shouldn’t wait or park on yellow zigzag lines outside a school. This is again because a clear view of the crossing area outside the school is needed by drivers and riders on the road, as well as pedestrians on the pavement.
What are the signs a pedestrian may have a disability (and therefore need extra care)
Older people are more likely to have certain disabilities and looking out for clues of these can help keep everyone safe. A pedestrian who is blind may have a white stick or guide dog; a person who is both deaf and blind may be carrying a white stick with a red band, and may also have a guide dog with a red and white checked harness. A person with hearing difficulties may have a dog with a distinctive yellow or burgundy coloured coat. In the event of encountering any people with these additional needs, you should take extra care as they may not be aware of vehicles approaching, or become aware later than other road users would be.
How should you overtake a cyclist?
Cyclists can seem unpredictable as they have to react to things that drivers don’t, such as swerving to avoid an uneven road surface or manhole cover or being blown off course by a gust of wind. Therefore, it’s imperative that if you’re overtaking a cyclist you give them as much room as you would a car.
A cyclist may be planning to turn right if they are travelling at a low speed, or keep glancing over their shoulder to check for traffic. You should learn to recognise these clues and hold back to give them plenty of room to complete their planned manoeuvre. If you’re just about to turn left, you should hold back and wait until the cyclist has passed the junction before you turn – NEVER overtake.
What should you be aware of in motorcyclists in traffic queues?
You should be cautious of the fact that motorcyclists may: filter between lanes; cut in just in front of you, or pass very close to you. You should keep checking all of your mirrors to make sure you see them and can anticipate their next move.
If there’s a horse on the road, you should:
you should always drive slowly and carefully near animals and give them plenty of room. Do not rev your engine, as the sound could frighten the horses who are easily startled.
If you wish to overtake them, make sure it’s safe before driving past slowly, whilst leaving plenty of room.
As with cyclists. horse riders may keep to the left at roundabouts, even if they’re signalling right. Stay well back and give them plenty of time and space.
Why should you be aware of learner drivers?
Learner drivers are more prone to making mistakes, such as stalling at a junction. Statistics show that 17 to 25-year-olds are the most likely to be involved in a road traffic incident. This may be down to over-confidence, a lack of experience and poor judgement. You should remember your experiences as a learner; be patient, kind and ready to slow down or stop if necessary. Doing this makes the roads a pleasant and safer place for all.
What does a flashing amber beacon on a vehicle mean?
Slow moving vehicle
