Why should you never wave people across at pedestrian crossings?

Explanation: If people are waiting to use a pedestrian crossing, slow down and be prepared to stop. Don't wave them across the road, because another driver may not have seen them, may not have seen your signal, and may not be able to stop safely. The wave only says “I’m stopping” — it does not mean “the whole road is safe.” A pedestrian may take the gesture as an all-clear, but another car, cyclist, or motorbike could still be approaching or overtaking. The UK Highway Code specifically says at zebra and parallel crossings do not wave, flash your lights, or use your horn to invite people across, because “this could be dangerous if another vehicle is approaching.”

Category: Attitude

References: The Official DVSA Guide to Driving: Section 7, Highway Code: Rule 195