What is the Difference Between Pelican and Puffin Crossing?

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The main difference between Pelican and Puffin crossings lies in the way they operate. Here are the key differences:

  • Timing: Pelican crossings work according to set timings, while Puffin crossings use sensors to determine when the crossing is clear.
  • Sensor Usage: Puffin crossings have sensors mounted on the traffic lights that detect pedestrians waiting to cross, making the crossing more efficient. Pelican crossings do not have sensors and rely on a set timer to control the traffic lights.
  • Traffic Light Sequence: Both Pelican and Puffin crossings have traffic lights that turn red to stop traffic when a pedestrian is crossing. However, Puffin crossings do not have a flashing amber phase, unlike Pelican crossings.
  • Rules for Drivers: The rules for drivers at both Pelican and Puffin crossings are the same. Drivers must stop when the traffic lights turn red and wait for the amber light to flash before proceeding if the crossing is clear.
  • Rules for Pedestrians: Pedestrians using both Pelican and Puffin crossings must push a button and wait for the green signal before crossing.

In summary, Puffin crossings use sensors to adjust the traffic light sequence based on the presence of pedestrians, while Pelican crossings follow a set timer. Both types of crossings have traffic lights that control the flow of traffic, and drivers and pedestrians must follow the same rules at both types of crossings.

Comparative Table: Pelican vs Puffin Crossing

Pelican and Puffin crossings are both types of pedestrian crossings controlled by traffic lights, but they have some differences in their features and operation. Here is a table comparing the key differences between the two:

Feature Pelican Crossing Puffin Crossing
Signal Display Traffic lights face the road, red then amber, followed by the green man signal for pedestrians Green/red man signals are on the side of the road, with traffic lights facing the road
Sensor Controlled by a timer Controlled by sensors mounted on the lights
Sequence Red light followed by amber, then green man for pedestrians Red light followed by green/red man signals without amber
Flashing Amber Light Present, indicating that vehicles can proceed if the crossing is clear Absent, only red and green lights are used

Both Pelican and Puffin crossings have traffic lights that control the flow of vehicles and pedestrians. However, Puffin crossings are considered more advanced and user-friendly because they are controlled by sensors and do not use a flashing amber light, making it simpler for both drivers and pedestrians to understand the signal sequence.