With term two now underway the RAA is urging drivers to brush up on the often-misunderstood rules surrounding school zones and pedestrian crossings.

Most may be familiar with Zebra crossings, but what about Emu, Wombat, and Koala crossings?

The reminder aims to keep the number of pedestrian lives lost in South Australia this year to a minimum – so far this year one pedestrian has lost their life, compared to seven at this point in 2023.

RAA Senior Manager Safety & Infrastructure Charles Mountain says road rules surrounding the different types of crossings are often misunderstood by drivers.

“The different types of school crossings are designed to protect our most vulnerable road users,” he says.

“The overarching rule at school zones is to stick to the 25km/hr speed limit whenever children are present, and otherwise drive at a speed that allows you to stop if required.

“With school returning this week, South Aussies should brush up on each type of crossing and the relevant rules – such as when they are operational and when you need to give way to pedestrians.

“Doing so will not only help you avoid a fine, but will keep our most vulnerable road users safe as they make their journeys to school.”

School zones

• School zones are signed and zigzag lines are marked on the road where practicable.
• 25km/h speed limits apply within school zones, at children’s crossings when the lights are flashing and when passing a school bus that has stopped to pick up or drop off children.

Emu crossings

• Emu crossings have red and white posts with white road markings, and display ‘children crossing’ flags.
• Operational whenever the flags are displayed.
• Drivers must stop for pedestrians using or about to use the crossings.
• Speed limit of 25km/hr applies whenever children are present.

Koala crossings

• Koala crossings have and white posts with white road markings, and two yellow alternating flashing lights on top.
• Operational whenever the lights are flashing.
• Drivers must stop for pedestrians using or about to use the crossings.
• Speed limit of 25km/hr applies between the signs on the approach to the crossings.

Zebra crossings 

• Zebra crossings have white parallel stripes on the road with pedestrian crossing signs. May include two yellow alternating flashing lights.
• Drivers must give way to pedestrians and cyclists.
• Drivers must drive at a speed that allows them to safely stop if required.

Wombat crossings

• Wombat crossings have white parallel stripes on a raised section of road with pedestrian crossing signs.
• Usually accompanied by a 40km/hr speed limit.
• Drivers must give way to pedestrians and cyclists.
• Drivers must drive at a speed that allows them to safely stop if required.