What defines a courtesy pedestrian crossing?

A courtesy pedestrian crossing is specifically characterized as an uncontrolled pedestrian crossing place. This type of crossing is not regulated by traffic lights or any direct control mechanisms, meaning that it relies on the attentiveness and cooperation of both pedestrians and drivers. Here, pedestrians usually have the right of way, and drivers are expected to yield when they approach a crossing where pedestrians are either waiting or in the act of crossing.

This setting promotes a safe environment for pedestrians, encouraging awareness and caution from both parties without the strict enforcement found in controlled crossings. A lack of physical barriers or signals at these crossings underscores the importance of mutual respect between drivers and pedestrians in order to maintain safety.

In contrast, controlled pedestrian crossings involve traffic lights or signs managing the flow of both vehicles and pedestrians, while lighted pedestrian crossings incorporate illumination for visibility, and marked crossings with barriers provide additional safety features that aid in separating pedestrian pathways from vehicle paths. None of these elements define a courtesy pedestrian crossing, which emphasizes the interaction and responsibilities of pedestrians and drivers in an uncontrolled setting.