Drivers Face Hefty Fines from School Crossing Patrol 'Lollipop' Feature
Motorists across the UK are being warned about a clever feature on School Crossing Patrol signs that can lead to fines of up to £1,000. Many experienced drivers have been "caught out" by this little-known aspect of the familiar "lollipop" signs used by crossing officers near schools.
The Hidden Feature on Crossing Patrol Signs
School Crossing Patrol Officers, commonly known as lollipop persons, employ signs with a unique feature designed to identify vehicles that ignore their stop signals. The blacked-out space between the warning text and children's crossing symbol on these signs serves a specific purpose that many drivers - and even some crossing officers themselves - were unaware of until recently.
Liverpool-based driving instructor Daniel Smith highlighted this feature in a social media video that has since gone viral. He explained that crossing officers can use this space to record vehicle registration numbers of drivers who fail to stop when instructed.
"It's a little bit of band, and you'd use a piece of chalk to write down the registration of the car that's just gone through," Daniel stated. "The newer ones have got cameras in, so they can see who drives through and just video them."
Social Media Revelation and Public Response
The video, posted to both Instagram and TikTok where Daniel has over 131,900 followers, generated significant attention and surprise among viewers. Many people who had been driving for decades admitted they were "just learning" about this feature for the first time.
Responses included:
- "I'm a lollipop lady and not many people know that."
- "I've been a lollipop lady for four years and I was never told this!"
- "Nearly 40 and I never knew this! Learn something new every day!"
- "How have I got to 53 and never knew this?"
Some commenters pointed out practical limitations, noting that chalk markings would wash away in rainy conditions. However, the newer camera-equipped signs address this issue while providing more reliable evidence.
Legal Requirements and Penalties
Ignoring a School Crossing Patrol officer is indeed against the law. Under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 and Rule 210 of the Highway Code, drivers are legally required to stop when a uniformed officer displays the "Stop for Children" sign.
School Crossing Patrol Officers have the same authority to stop traffic as police officers. Failure to comply can result in:
- A fine of up to £1,000
- Three penalty points on your driving licence
- Potential disqualification from driving, depending on existing penalty points
Essential Guidelines for Drivers Near Schools
When approaching school areas, drivers should follow these important rules:
- Slow down immediately when you see School Crossing Patrol warning signs or flashing lights
- Stop completely when the officer displays the STOP sign
- Remain patient and do not attempt to move forward
- Wait until the officer has returned to the pavement before proceeding
- Avoid parking or stopping on zig-zag lines or other restricted areas near crossing points
Crossing officers typically pass vehicle registration information and reports to police or local traffic wardens, who then take appropriate action against violators. This system helps ensure child safety during busy school drop-off and pick-up times when roads around educational institutions become particularly hazardous.
The revelation about the sign's recording feature serves as an important reminder for all drivers to respect crossing patrols and follow their instructions carefully to avoid substantial penalties while protecting young pedestrians.
