Mastering the Crossing :

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Highway Code Rule 195

📖 Rule 195 Full Regulations & Explanation

Rule 195 ↗
Zebra and parallel crossings. As you approach a zebra crossing

look out for pedestrians waiting to cross and be ready to slow down or stop to let them cross
you should give way to pedestrians waiting to cross
you MUST give way when a pedestrian has moved onto a crossing
allow more time for stopping on wet or icy roads
do not wave, flash your lights or use your horn to invite pedestrians across; this could be dangerous if another vehicle is approaching
be patient, do not sound your horn or rev your engine as this can be intimidating
be aware of pedestrians approaching from the side of the crossing.
A zebra crossing with a central island is two separate crossings (see Rules 19 and 20).

Parallel crossings are similar to zebra crossings, but include a cycle route alongside the black and white stripes.

As you approach a parallel crossing

look out for pedestrians or cyclists waiting to cross and slow down or stop
you should give way to pedestrians or cyclists waiting to cross
you MUST give way when a pedestrian or cyclist has moved onto a crossing
allow more time for stopping on wet or icy roads
do not wave, flash your lights or use your horn to invite pedestrians or cyclists across; this could be dangerous if another vehicle is approaching
be patient, do not sound your horn or rev your engine as this can be intimidating
be aware of pedestrians or cyclists approaching from the side of the crossing.
A parallel crossing with a central island is two separate crossings (see Rules 19 and 20).

Law TSRGD schedule 14 part 5

Signal-controlled crossings

Text shown in the rule image

Mastering the Crossing :

A Driver's Guide to Rule 195

APPROACHING THE CROSSING

Scan and Prepare to Slow

As you approach , look out for pedestrians or cyclists waiting at the edge and be ready to reduce speed or stop entirely .

Account for Weather Conditions

You must allow for significantly more stopping distance when the road surface is wet or icy to ensure you can stop safely .

THE RULES OF GIVING WAY

Identify the Crossing Type

Zebra crossings feature black and white stripes ; Parallel crossings include a cycle route running alongside those stripes for cyclists .

When to Give Way

While you should give way to those waiting , you MUST legally give way once a pedestrian or cyclist has moved onto the crossing .

Watch the Sides

Drivers must remain aware of pedestrians or cyclists approaching the crossing from the side , not just those directly in front of the vehicle .

The Central Island Rule

If a Zebra or Parallel crossing has a central island , it is treated as two separate crossings rather than one continuous path .

DRIVER CONDUCT & SAFETY

Avoid Misleading Signals

Do not wave , flysh your lights , or use your horn to invite people to cross , as this can be dangerous if other vehicles are approaching .

Eliminate Intimidation:

Be patient and avoid sounding your horn or revving your engine , as these actions can be intimidating to those crossing .

Legal Compliance: These rules are supported by Law TSBGD Schedule 14 Part 5 , governing signal - controlled and non - signal - controlled crossings .