Pedestrian crossing
Information
Written by Chris Prosman Reviewed by Dirk van Zuijlen
Updated
- Sign code
- L2
- Category
- Information
- Traffic signs
- Pedestrian crossing.
L2 identifies a pedestrian crossing, usually recognisable as a zebra crossing. Drivers must let pedestrians and disability-vehicle users cross when they are crossing or clearly about to do so. Look for people still waiting at the edge too.
What to do at this sign
Approach at a speed that lets you stop in time. Check both sides and people hidden by parked vehicles or other traffic. Do not focus solely on the white stripes: the person crossing and their clear intention are essential.
Example on the road
Someone stands at the zebra crossing, looking towards it and clearly intending to cross. You do not wait until they are already in the middle of your lane. Keep the crossing clear in time and avoid forcing them to stop or step back.
Other conditions to check
Article 49 provides specific exceptions, including an applicable red pedestrian signal or flashing amber signal and the specified military column and motorised funeral procession. Signals and actual circumstances therefore matter; a zebra crossing does not authorise crossing regardless of every signal.
How to recognise the sign
Read the image, arrows and any text on sign L2; they distinguish this version within the information category.
Difference from J22 — Pedestrian crossing
J22 warns of a pedestrian crossing ahead. L2 identifies the crossing itself.
J22 — Pedestrian crossingLegal basis
Frequently asked questions
- Must I wait for someone clearly about to cross?
- Yes. The rule includes someone clearly about to use the crossing, subject to statutory exceptions.
- Is J22 the same as L2?
- No. J22 gives advance warning; L2 identifies the pedestrian crossing.
Explained in the course
Practise this sign for your theory exam
Pedestrian crossing belongs to the Information category. In the CBR theory exam a traffic sign is almost never asked on its own: you are shown a situation and have to know what you may or must do in it. In the free sign trainer you practise the signs by category, with the explanation shown right after every answer.
Practise traffic signs for free Practise car theory: free mock exam
