Rules for Zebra Crossing in South Africa

Introduction

When it comes to road safety in South Africa, zebra crossings play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of pedestrians. Understanding the rules for zebra crossings is essential for both drivers and pedestrians to navigate these areas safely.

Rules for Drivers

Drivers in South Africa must adhere to the following rules when approaching a zebra crossing:

• Drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians waiting to cross or already crossing the road at a zebra crossing.
• Drivers must come to a complete stop when a pedestrian is on the zebra crossing and only proceed once the pedestrian has safely crossed to the other side.
• Drivers should not overtake other vehicles that are stopped at a zebra crossing.
• It is illegal for drivers to park or stop within five meters of a zebra crossing.
• Drivers should always be vigilant and prepared to stop for pedestrians at zebra crossings, especially in high pedestrian traffic areas.

Rules for Pedestrians

Pedestrians using zebra crossings in South Africa should also follow certain rules to ensure their safety:

• Pedestrians should make eye contact with drivers before stepping onto the zebra crossing to ensure that the driver has seen them.
• Pedestrians should wait for traffic to come to a complete stop before crossing the road at a zebra crossing.
• Pedestrians should cross the road quickly and in a straight line to minimize the time spent in the path of oncoming vehicles.
• Pedestrians should avoid distractions such as cell phones or headphones while crossing the road.

Peculiar Differences

One peculiar difference between South Africa and some other countries is that in South Africa, zebra crossings do not have traffic lights or signals to indicate when pedestrians can cross. This makes it even more important for drivers to be vigilant and for pedestrians to take extra caution when using zebra crossings.

FAQ

1. Can drivers overtake other vehicles at a zebra crossing?

No, it is illegal for drivers to overtake other vehicles that are stopped at a zebra crossing.

2. How far should drivers park from a zebra crossing?

Drivers should not park within five meters of a zebra crossing.

3. Can pedestrians cross the road at any point along a zebra crossing?

Pedestrians should only cross the road at designated zebra crossings to ensure their safety.

4. Are drivers required to stop for pedestrians at zebra crossings?

Yes, drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians at zebra crossings.

5. What should pedestrians do before crossing the road at a zebra crossing?

Pedestrians should make eye contact with drivers to ensure they have been seen before crossing.

6. Can pedestrians use electronic devices while crossing the road at zebra crossings?

No, pedestrians should avoid distractions such as cell phones while crossing the road.

7. Are there penalties for drivers who do not stop for pedestrians at zebra crossings?

Yes, drivers who fail to stop for pedestrians at zebra crossings can face fines and penalties.

8. How should drivers approach a zebra crossing?

Drivers should approach a zebra crossing at a slow speed and be prepared to stop for pedestrians.

9. Are there any exceptions to the rule of giving way to pedestrians at zebra crossings?

No, all drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians at zebra crossings.

10. What should pedestrians do if a driver does not stop at a zebra crossing?

Pedestrians should wait for the driver to stop or cross the road only when it is safe to do so.