Designated point on a road where road marking or other means helps ped...
A pedestrian crossing or crosswalk is a place designated for pedestrians to cross a road. Crosswalks are designed to keep pedestrians together where they can be seen by motorists, and where they can cross most safely across the flow of vehicular traffic.
Marked pedestrian crossings are often found at intersections, but may also be at other points on busy roads that would otherwise be too unsafe to cross without assistance due to vehicle numbers, speed or road widths. They are also commonly installed where large numbers of pedestrians are attempting to cross (such as in shopping areas) or where vulnerable road users (such as school children) regularly cross.
Designated point on a road where road marking or other means helps ped...
Introduction:
A designated point on a road where road marking or other means help pedestrians cross safely is called a pedestrian crossing. It is an essential feature of road infrastructure that ensures the safety and convenience of pedestrians.
Explanation:
Pedestrian crossings are designed to provide a safe passage for pedestrians across a road, especially in areas with high pedestrian traffic or near schools, parks, and commercial areas. They are marked with road signs, road markings, and sometimes additional safety features to alert drivers and prioritize the safety of pedestrians.
Types of Pedestrian Crossings:
There are several types of pedestrian crossings, each designed to cater to different traffic conditions and pedestrian needs. Some common types include:
1. Zebra crossing:
- This type of pedestrian crossing is characterized by black and white stripes on the road surface.
- It provides pedestrians with the right of way, indicating that vehicles must stop to allow them to cross.
- Zebra crossings are easily recognizable and widely used in many countries.
2. Pelican crossing:
- Pelican crossings incorporate traffic lights and signal buttons to control the flow of both vehicles and pedestrians.
- Pedestrians can press the button to activate the traffic lights, which will stop the vehicles and provide a dedicated time for pedestrians to cross.
3. Puffin crossing:
- Puffin crossings are similar to pelican crossings but use infrared sensors to detect pedestrians waiting to cross.
- The infrared sensors monitor the crossing and adjust the signal timings to ensure the safe passage of pedestrians.
4. Toucan crossing:
- Toucan crossings are designed to accommodate both pedestrians and cyclists.
- They have wider crossing spaces and signalized phases to allow cyclists to cross alongside pedestrians.
5. Pedestrian refuge island:
- This type of crossing provides a safe space for pedestrians to pause in the middle of the road.
- Pedestrians can cross the first half of the road, reach the refuge island, and then proceed to cross the second half.
Conclusion:
Pedestrian crossings play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and convenience of pedestrians. They provide a designated point on the road where pedestrians can cross safely, and drivers are legally obliged to yield to pedestrians at these crossings. The various types of pedestrian crossings cater to different traffic conditions and pedestrian needs, ensuring that pedestrians can navigate roads without unnecessary risks.
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