Section 18: Rules for pedestrians
Pedestrian deaths account for 1 in 5 deaths on our roads. This section covers the rules on walking along and crossing roads.
The most important rule for all pedestrians is to behave responsibly, exercise care and not endanger or inconvenience other users of the road.
Walking beside or along a road
If there is a footpath, you must use it.
If there is no footpath, you must walk as near as possible to the right- hand side of the road (facing oncoming traffic).
Do not walk more than two abreast. If the road is narrow or carries heavy traffic, you should walk in single file.
You should always wear bright and hi-viz clothing during the day and
reflective clothing at night when walking outside built-up areas.
You should always carry a torch when walking at night time.
You should always be aware of other road users.
Crossing the road
Follow the DOs and DON’Ts below to make sure you cross the road safely.
Dos 3 Don’ts 7
Do look for a safe place to cross. Don’t cross at a corner or bend in the road.
Don’t cross near the brow of a hill.
Do stop and wait near the edge of the path. If there is no path, stand close to the edge of the road.
Do look right and left and listen for traffic. Don’t cross near or at parked vehicles.
Do let any traffic coming in either direction pass, then look right and left again.
Don’t cross where there are guard rails along the footpath.