Page:Report of the Traffic Signs Committee (1963).pdf/69



252. Pedestrian crossings fall into two groups:—

(i) those controlled either by the police or by signals, and

(ii) uncontrolled crossings, commonly called 'zebra' crossings.

The limits of all crossings are marked by parallel lines of studs which may be either square or circular and of any material which is white, silver or light grey in colour. In addition, zebra crossings are marked with black and white stripes and have a double row of studs on the approach side to show the limit of the area within which Regulations forbid vehicles to stop. Zebra crossings also have flashing amber globes on each side of the carriageway. These are mounted on posts painted with black and white bands.

253. The studs used in the carriageway to mark the limits of pedestrian crossings and of the approaches to them are commonly made of metal, which tends to become smooth with wear. The Cyclist Associations complain that these studs are dangerous because they can cause cyclists to skid; motor cyclists also object to their use. They can cause pedestrians to slip, especially in wet weather.

We have been unable to ascertain with any accuracy the number of accidents which have been caused by these studs but we think that the danger is slight. If, however, a sufficiently durable material can be found which is easily visible and non-skid and can be set in the road surface we recommend that it be used in preference to metal studs.

254. A considerable amount of research preceded the choice of the black and white stripes now used for the marking of zebra crossings. Various other forms of marking were tried but none was found to be as conspicuous to drivers and pedestrians alike as the longitudinal stripes, particularly when they are formed from materials of different surface textures. We regard these markings as satisfactory and do not recommend that any change be made in them.

255. We recommend no change in the amber flashing beacons at zebra crossings.

256. Contrary to our recommendations elsewhere that other roadside traffic sign posts (except those for signals) have their black and white banding removed in the interest of amenity, we think the beacon posts should continue to be banded for the sake of emphasis and in the interest of pedestrian safety.