Vulnerable road users

Vulnerable road users are pedestrians, cyclists, children, the elderly and motorcyclists. They have no bodywork to protect them, so a collision with them often has serious consequences. Anticipate their behaviour: children may suddenly run into the road, the elderly walk slowly and see less well, and cyclists may swerve unexpectedly around a pothole or a parked car. Example: you approach a zebra crossing where a pedestrian clearly wants to cross. You are required to let them go first and stop in time. Never overtake just before a zebra crossing — an overtaking car blocks your view of crossing pedestrians. When passing a cyclist keep at least about 1.5 metres of lateral distance, and watch for approaching cyclists when opening your door (the "Dutch reach": open with the far hand).