Council seeks to end confusion over courtesy crossings

Mayo County Council has moved to remove any confusion as to who has the right of way at courtesy crossings (uncontrolled crossings) in the county. 

The issue has caused particular concern in the tourist hotspot of Westport in recent years, where a series of near misses have occurred at several courtesy crossings installed at various junctions. 

Now, a new road safety leaflet published by the council clearly confirms that drivers are not legally obliged to stop at courtesy crossings, meaning that motorists have the right to decide whether to stop or not for pedestrians seeking to cross.

The new pedestrian crossing leaflet states: “Drivers are not legally obliged to stop at uncontrolled pedestrian crossings. Safety depends on the awareness and co-operation of both drivers and pedestrians.” 

It points out that it is the responsibility of pedestrians to stop at the kerb and check traffic in both directions; to make eye contact with drivers where possible; and to cross only when drivers in both directions have come to a stop; whereas drivers are advised to slow down and remain alert; be prepared to stop; give extra attention in poor weather or low visibility; and watch carefully for pedestrians waiting to cross.

The council adds: “An uncontrolled pedestrian crossing (courtesy crossing) is a designated place where pedestrians can cross a road without the use of traffic signals, stop signs or barriers to control traffic flow. These crossings are usually identified by dropped kerbs for wheelchair, buggy and mobility access; tactile paving to assist visually impaired pedestrians; raised road surfaces or speed reducing features; and central refuge islands on wider roads.” 

As to the rights of pedestrians at zebra crossings, however, there should also be no confusion as the council states that “drivers must stop and yield right of way to any pedestrian who is waiting to cross or has commenced crossing the road at a zebra crossing and can only move on once the pedestrian has crossed the road and the crossing is clear".

The information leaflet was launched recently outside Castlebar National School by Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council Cllr John Caulfield, who stated: “Pedestrian crossings play a vital role in helping people cross roads safely but it is important that both pedestrians and motorists understand their responsibilities."

Director of Services Siofra Kilcullen stated: “This new pedestrian crossing leaflet is an important initiative to promote awareness, encourage safe behaviour and remind both pedestrians and motorists of their responsibilities on the road. This launch forms part of ongoing efforts to promote road safety awareness throughout County Mayo and to help make roads safe for everyone.”

• Published as part of the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.