What is a Zebra Cross? Here are its Functions and Rules!
A zebra crossing is a road marking designed with longitudinal black and white stripes. The zebra crossing has its own functions and rules. So what are its functions and what are the rules? For more details, please pay attention to the following review.
What is a Zebra Crossing?
A zebra crossing is a vital element in road infrastructure designed specifically to provide ease and safety for pedestrians. On the zebra crossing, the road marking has a longitudinal stripe design accompanied by black and white colors. The marking has a thickness of about 300 mm with equal gap sizes and a length of about 2,500 cm.
However, according to the history of the zebra crossing, since it was first created in 1951, the colors used were not black and white. Instead, they were blue and yellow and made from metal materials.
Functions of Zebra Crossings
Zebra crossings have several important functions in everyday life. Here are the complete functions.
1. Facilitating Pedestrians
The main function of a zebra crossing is to facilitate pedestrians when crossing the road. Therefore, when pedestrians want to cross, they must use the zebra crossing marking if they want to be safe. However, every pedestrian must pay attention to the situation and conditions on the right and left before crossing the zebra crossing. This is necessary to avoid being hit by other drivers.
If the right and left conditions are safe, pedestrians should cross immediately. Pedestrians are not advised to turn back when already in the middle of the road. If the zebra crossing is located in an area with traffic lights, then pedestrians must wait until the light is red before crossing.
2. Warning Drivers
Furthermore, zebra crossings serve to warn other road users or drivers on the road. With the presence of zebra crossings, drivers are required to slow down when approaching the marking. This applies at every zebra crossing, not just when at a red light.
Drivers must prioritize pedestrians who want to cross. Avoid honking the horn, which can cause the crossing pedestrian to panic and rush, as this can endanger their safety. Additionally, drivers may also face traffic violation penalties.
Rules for Installing Zebra Crossings
As previously explained, the type of zebra crossing road marking is made with a thickness of about 300 mm with equal gap sizes. The length of the zebra crossing itself is made to be approximately 25 meters. The installation of zebra crossings cannot be done arbitrarily, as it must follow the following rules.
1. Installation is mandatory in low traffic areas
The installation of zebra crossings must be done in areas with low traffic flow. In these areas, there are rules for low vehicle speeds. For example, in busy urban areas or where pedestrian traffic is only heavy at certain times.
2. Installation is mandatory in areas with sufficient visibility
Zebra crossings must be installed in areas with sufficient visibility. To ensure adequate and clear visibility, the road conditions should usually be flat and straight. Avoid installing in curved areas as it can cause collisions.
Thus is the review regarding zebra crossings, their functions, and installation rules. To ensure safety and security, comply with all applicable traffic signs. Don't forget to service your car at the official Daihatsu workshop regularly, especially when planning to travel long distances.
