Vulnerable road users and pedestrian crossings
This domain tests whether you drive for the people who will lose any collision: pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, children, older people and those carrying loads. In Guinea-Bissau many roads have no footpaths, markets spill onto the carriageway, and motorcycles and motorised tricycles carry passengers and goods, so vulnerable road users are not an exception to plan for but the normal condition of the road.
Crossings
The approach to a zebra is where the marking becomes an obligation: slow on approach so that you can stop. Do not overtake a vehicle that has stopped at a crossing, because it is probably stopping for someone you cannot see. If a pedestrian has already begun to cross, you must stop and wait.
Space and anticipation
- Leave at least one metre when passing a cyclist or pedestrian, and more at higher speeds.
- Check the blind spot before every lane change or turn: motorcycles are easily hidden and are among the most common casualties.
- Children near schools and markets behave unpredictably; expect them to step out from between parked vehicles.
- Older people and people carrying loads move slowly and may not hear you; give them time rather than horn.
- Before opening your door, look behind for cyclists and motorcyclists.
- At night, unlit pedestrians and cyclists are almost invisible; reduce speed and use dipped beam.
Worked example
A minibus is stopped at a zebra crossing. You have clear road ahead and are tempted to pass it. Reason it through: a stopped bus at a crossing is a strong signal that someone is crossing in front of it, out of your sight. If you pass, you meet that pedestrian at speed with no stopping distance. The correct action is to stop behind the bus and wait until you can see the crossing is clear.
Traps that cost marks
Assuming a pedestrian will stop; overtaking a vehicle stopped at a crossing; waving someone across when another lane is not stopped; tailgating a motorcycle; and forgetting to check for riders before opening a door.