Right of way at pedestrian crossings

#1 15-01-2008, 02:20

One of the things that struck me (fortunately not literally) on holiday in PP last year and in Spain in general is how little attention drivers pay to pedestrian (zebra) crossings, i.e those without traffic lights.

On average we'd have to wait while 10-15 cars or trucks thundered past before someone would be kind enough to stop.

I'm not sure if this is a cultural thing (laws are there for other people) or that the law is actually different and drivers aren't obliged to stop in the way they are here.

Can anyone enlighten me so I know whether to scowl or smile this year?

Sharonh · #2 15-01-2008, 04:35

My understanding is that the law is different and car drivers are not obliged to stop - unlike the UK.

debz1 · #3 15-01-2008, 08:05

I always try and make sure I have one of my daughters with me when using the pedestrian crossing near Tolos, on the way to the beach.

For some reason the cars always seem to stop when I'm with them !!!!!

Debs

Belladonna · #4 16-01-2008, 00:29

' Coz they are stunners thats why debz! As well you know! Obviously the mothers genes, with a little bit of help from the dads!!

debz1 · #5 16-01-2008, 01:41

Love you!!!!

Lala70w · #6 16-01-2008, 05:58

My approach was learned in Southern Italy - where the drivers think they are all in Forumla 1! :eek

You basically put your foot on the crossing and look as if you are about to go for it. Works - honestly - although not for the faint hearted (I take no responsibility for any of you who try it and come to peril) but better than standing there like a lemon for hours.:lol

P.S a good tip - make sure that you are looking the right way first :rolleyes

#7 17-01-2008, 01:59

I asked Tony de la Cruz, a solicitor, about this.

He said that the law is the same as in the UK - basically they should stop and if they fail to and there is an accident the driver would be in serious trouble.

Doesn't help when you are standing there though!

allanglens · #8 17-01-2008, 05:25

I have found that, usually, only tourists (or at least hire cars) will stop for you if you are standing on the pavement at the side of the crossing. But almost everyone stops if you actually step onto the crossing.

Takes a bit of nerve sometimes, but seems to work.

allanglens