Zebra crossing

A zebra crossing has no lights to obey, which is what makes it different from every other crossing: the judgement is entirely yours. Belisha beacons — the flashing amber globes — mark it, and zigzag lines run along the approach on both sides.

Once a pedestrian has moved onto the crossing you must give way. Good practice goes further than the minimum and slows on the approach when someone is clearly waiting, because the alternative is braking hard when they step out. Do not wave people across: you cannot see what is overtaking you, and you may be inviting them into it.

The zigzag lines are not decoration. You must not park on them, and you must not overtake the leading vehicle on the approach — both rules exist because they protect the sightline between a driver and a pedestrian about to step out.