Children are particularly vulnerable as road users due to their unpredictability and tendency to not look before stepping into the road.
When driving near schools, exercise caution:
- Look out for flashing amber lights under school warning signs and reduce your speed accordingly.
- Be prepared to stop for a school crossing patrol, who may step out into the road with a stop sign to halt traffic.
Avoid waiting or parking on yellow zigzag lines outside schools to maintain clear visibility of the crossing area for both drivers and pedestrians.
Buses and coaches transporting schoolchildren display a special sign on the back to indicate frequent stops, not just at designated bus stops.
When encountering older or disabled pedestrians:
- Be cautious if older individuals are preparing to cross the road, as they may misjudge your speed. Allow them to cross at their own pace.
- Treat disabled pedestrians with patience and respect, as they may require additional time to cross.
- Look out for pedestrians with hearing difficulties, often accompanied by a dog with a distinctive yellow or burgundy coat.
- Be aware of pedestrians who are both deaf and blind, indicated by a white stick with a red band or a dog with a red-and-white checked harness. Exercise extra caution, as they may not perceive approaching vehicles.