How to Approach a Zebra Crossing During the CBR Practical Exam

Before the hidden edge

Ease off while you still have space to stop normally before the crossing. Don't carry on at the same pace simply because you haven't seen a pedestrian yet. You need a speed that works with the view you actually have, not the view you hope is there.

Someone appears

At an unsignalled zebra, let people crossing or clearly about to cross go first. The examiner assesses your approach speed and yielding. This is about noticing the risk early enough to respond calmly, rather than turning the last few metres into an emergency braking demonstration.

Before moving off

Wait before the stripes and leave the pedestrian's path clear. Then check the crossing and its approaches again before moving. Another person may have arrived while you were watching the first. Move off smoothly when clear. This example is an unsignalled crossing; traffic lights would change the decision.

Who has priority at a zebra crossing?

At an unsignalled zebra, RVV 1990 Article 49 requires drivers to let pedestrians crossing or clearly about to cross go first. They need not already have a foot on a stripe. Approach the hidden edge at a speed that lets you stop normally. CBR Rijprocedure B also calls for a moderate approach speed.

Do not mistake a cycling crossing next to zebra stripes for the zebra rules applying automatically to cyclists on their bikes. The signs, marking and other traffic rules still matter for a separate cycle crossing.

Signs that someone may appear

• A car ahead of you slows or stops for no clear reason.
• Children, school bags, or a group walking towards the crossing.
• Bicycles standing at the kerb. Cyclists next to the crossing may also move quickly.

What to practise

Ask your instructor to vary the obstruction: one parked van, a pedestrian approaching from the far pavement and a crossing beside a cycle track. Your task is to identify where the person could first become visible and how early you must reduce speed to retain a safe stopping option.

Legal note: RVV 1990 Articles 12 and 49 also cover overtaking immediately before or on a pedestrian crossing.