What is a Pelican Crossing?

A Pelican Crossing is a type of pedestrian crossing that uses traffic lights to regulate when pedestrians can cross and when vehicles must stop. Unlike uncontrolled zebra crossings, pedestrians at a Pelican Crossing activate the lights by pressing a button, signaling their intention to cross. The term 'Pelican Crossing' itself originates from the UK, meaning 'Pedestrian Light Controlled ANd INdication' crossing, highlighting its core function.

Signal-Controlled Pedestrian Crossings in Austria

In Austria, while the specific term 'Pelican Crossing' is not officially used, the concept of signal-controlled pedestrian crossings is integral to the road network. These crossings, often designated as a 'Schutzweg' (pedestrian crossing) and equipped with traffic lights, are designed to ensure pedestrian safety, especially on busier roads. For Austrian driving theory, it's essential to understand the specific light sequences and your responsibilities as a driver at such junctions.

Understanding the Traffic Light Sequence

At a signal-controlled pedestrian crossing, the lights follow a specific sequence:

• Pedestrian Request: A pedestrian presses the button, requesting to cross.
• Amber Light for Vehicles: The vehicle traffic lights will turn amber, indicating that drivers must prepare to stop.
• Red Light for Vehicles: The vehicle traffic lights turn red, requiring all vehicles to stop before the stop line.
• Green Man for Pedestrians: Simultaneously, the pedestrian signal illuminates a green 'walking man' symbol, indicating it is safe for pedestrians to cross.
• Flashing Green Man/Red Man: After a set time, the green man may flash (warning pedestrians that the crossing time is ending) or immediately switch to a red 'standing man' symbol, indicating pedestrians should not start crossing and those on the crossing should finish quickly.
• Amber then Green for Vehicles: The vehicle traffic lights will turn amber again, then green, allowing vehicles to proceed once the crossing is completely clear of pedestrians.

Driver Responsibilities and Safety at Signal-Controlled Crossings

As a driver in Austria, approaching any signal-controlled pedestrian crossing requires heightened awareness and adherence to traffic laws:

• Prepare to Stop: Always be ready to stop when approaching a crossing, especially if you see pedestrians waiting or the lights change to amber.
• Stop Behind the Line: If the lights turn red, you must stop before the white stop line marked on the road. Do not block the crossing area.
• Yield to Pedestrians: Even if your light turns green, you must ensure the crossing is entirely clear of pedestrians before proceeding. Pedestrians already on the crossing have priority.
• Maintain Distance: Avoid tailgating when approaching these crossings, as sudden stops are common.
• Be Patient: Wait for the full light cycle and for all pedestrians to clear the crossing safely.

Pelican Crossing vs. Zebra Crossing: Key Differences

It's important to distinguish signal-controlled crossings (like the Pelican Crossing concept) from zebra crossings (known as 'Zebrastreifen' or 'Schutzweg' without lights in Austria). At zebra crossings, pedestrians have immediate priority, and drivers must yield without traffic light signals. At signal-controlled crossings, priority is determined by the traffic lights. In Austria, a 'Schutzweg' can be both a zebra crossing (uncontrolled) or a signal-controlled crossing, hence the emphasis on always observing the lights when present.