Zebra crossing is a type of pedestrian crossing marked by alternating black and white stripes on the road, designed to indicate a safe crossing point for pedestrians. It grants pedestrians the right of way, meaning vehicles are expected to stop when pedestrians are crossing or about to cross.
In Nigeria, however, compliance with zebra crossing rules is often poor. Many drivers ignore these crossings, sometimes claiming ignorance of their purpose. This disregard can lead to dangerous situations for pedestrians, as drivers frequently accelerate rather than slow down when approaching a zebra crossing.
Legal Framework
– Regulation 156 of the National Road Traffic Regulations (NRTR) mandates that drivers must yield to pedestrians at zebra crossings.
– Regulation 159 of the National Road Traffic Regulations (NRTR) in Nigeria mandates the use of trafficators by drivers when navigating pedestrian crossings, including zebra crossings.
It emphasizes that drivers must signal their intentions clearly to ensure pedestrian safety. Additionally, the regulation requires drivers to take precautions when approaching these crossings, thereby enhancing the protection of pedestrians.
– Regulation 161 of Nigeria’s National Road Traffic Regulations (NRTR) mandates that drivers must yield to pedestrians at zebra crossings. This regulation emphasizes the need for motorists to stop and allow pedestrians to cross safely, recognizing zebra crossings as designated safe areas for pedestrians, particularly vulnerable groups like children and the elderly
– Regulation 163 of Nigeria’s National Road Traffic Regulations addresses the rules for stopping vehicles on public roads, including at railway crossings and pedestrian crossings. It mandates that drivers must stop for pedestrians at designated crossings, ensuring their safety while crossing the road.
– Regulation 158 of the National Road Traffic Regulations (NRTR) in Nigeria addresses exemptions from obeying traffic signs and signals. Specifically, it outlines circumstances under which certain persons, such as emergency service vehicles, may not be required to follow standard traffic regulations, including those at zebra crossings. However, pedestrians must use designated crossings like zebra crossings when available, and drivers are obligated to yield to pedestrians at these crossings to enhance safety.
The Nigeria Highway Code establishes regulations for zebra crossings, emphasizing pedestrian safety. Motorists must stop to allow pedestrians to cross at these designated areas, which serve as safe passage points for vulnerable road users, such as children and the elderly. The code mandates that pedestrians should not run but walk smartly across zebra crossings, ensuring no vehicles are approaching before stepping onto the crossing
Regulations for Pedestrians Crossing including Zebra Crossing
Under Regulation 173 of Nigeria’s NRTR Act and Nigeria highway code, pedestrians have specific responsibilities at zebra crossings:
- Yield to Vehicles: Pedestrians must yield to vehicles when crossing only if they are already on the crossing or approaching closely enough to be in danger.
- No Sudden Movements: They cannot suddenly enter the crossing in a manner that prevents drivers from yielding safely.
- Crossing Quickly: Pedestrians should cross without lingering and must not loiter on the crossing.
- Use Designated Areas: Crossing is permitted only at designated crossings or within 91.44 meters of them, and they must use overhead bridges where available.
- Safety Awareness: They must ensure the road is clear of oncoming traffic before crossing and should not act dangerous.
- Avoid obstruction: Pedestrians must not hinder or obstruct traffic on public roads.
- Visibility: Pedestrians should ensure they are visible to drivers, especially at night or in poor weather conditions.
- Obey Traffic Signals: Cross only when pedestrian signals indicate it’s safe.
Responsibilities of Drivers at Zebra Crossing
Nigeria, drivers have specific responsibilities at zebra crossings as outlined in Regulation 161 of the National Road Traffic Regulations (NRTR):
- Clear Road: Drivers must ensure the road is clear of moving traffic before crossing.
- Sufficient Space: They should not enter an intersection unless there is enough space on the other side to avoid obstructing others.
- Priority to Vulnerable Users: Drivers must give preference to children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities wishing to cross at pedestrian crossings.
- Safety First: They should only enter public roads when it is safe for all road users.
- Speed Reduction Near Schools: Drivers must slow down when approaching schools or playgrounds.
- Obstruction Prevention: Vehicles should not obstruct other road users during maneuvers like lane changes or turns.
Key Offences Related to Zebra Crossings
1. Failure to Yield to Pedestrians: Drivers must stop when pedestrians are on or approaching a zebra crossing. Not yielding can result in penalties under traffic laws.
2. Speeding Near Crossings: Motorists are required to reduce their speed to zero upon approaching a zebra crossing. Ignoring this rule is considered a traffic violation.
3. Jaywalking: Pedestrians who cross outside designated areas, including zebra crossings, may face legal penalties. They are encouraged to use these crossings for safety.
4. Parking on Zebra Crossings: Zebra crossings are designated areas for pedestrians to cross safely, and parking in these zones obstructs their right of way, increasing the risk of accidents.
5. Ignoring Road Signs: Regulatory signs, such as “No Parking,” are mandatory and must be adhered to; failure to comply can lead to penalties. Additionally, neglecting zebra crossing warning signs contributes to hazardous driving conditions.
Penalties for Violating Zebra Crossings
– Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA):
– A fine of ₦20,000 is imposed on motorists who fail to yield to pedestrians at zebra crossings or park on them.
The fine increases to ₦30,000 for repeat offenders.
Read also: Unlawful Detention in Nigeria, What The Law Says
– Section 10(4) of the FRSC Act, 2007: Drivers who fail to yield to pedestrians at zebra crossings can face a fine of ₦5,000 and a penalty of 5 points on their driver’s license.
– Section 28(2) of the FRSC Act, 2007: Similar to Section 10(4), this section reinforces penalties for failure to adhere to road markings, including zebra crossings, with the same fine and point deductions.
– Regulation 167 of the National Road Traffic Regulations (NRTR) Act in Nigeria imposes strict penalties for dangerous driving, particularly at zebra crossings, to enhance pedestrian safety. Offenders may face a fine of ₦50,000 or imprisonment for up to two years for reckless actions on public roads. Specific violations include unsafe backward driving, tailgating, operating without lights at night, leaving vehicles running unattended, and overloading, which incurs a separate fine of ₦10,000 or six months imprisonment.
– Pedestrians who violate the pedestrian crossing including the Zebra crossing rule stated above face penalties that include a fine of N2,000 up to 3 months imprisonment, or both. (Section 173(11)).