Pedestrians and drivers

A road user is any person who uses the public road. Animals, such as a horse, and objects, such as a bicycle, are not road users in themselves.

Road users are divided into two groups: pedestrians and drivers.

A pedestrian is someone travelling on foot. Pedestrians normally use the footpath, also known as the pavement.

If there is no footpath, they use the verge, parking strip, cycle path or, as a last resort, the carriageway.

Anyone pushing a wheelchair, shopping trolley, wheelbarrow, bicycle, moped or similar vehicle is still considered a pedestrian.

People with reduced mobility who use a motorised mobility aid designed specifically for them are also considered pedestrians, provided it travels no faster than walking pace.

A driver is a person who controls a vehicle. This may be a non-motorised vehicle, such as a bicycle, or a motor vehicle, such as a car.

Anyone leading or controlling draught animals, pack animals, riding animals or livestock is also considered a driver. This includes horse riders, for example. Even if a rider gets off and walks beside the horse, they are still considered a driver.

If you encounter such road users, slow down. If the animals appear frightened, stop immediately and avoid sudden movements that could make the situation worse.

Anyone pushing a motorcycle is also still considered a driver.