What is a safety zone?

A safety zone refers to a designated area where pedestrians are provided protection from vehicle traffic, often marked by signage or other visual indicators. This area is intended to enhance the safety of pedestrians, allowing them to cross or wait without the immediate threat of vehicle encroachment. Adequate signage is crucial as it informs drivers of the pedestrian zone and helps facilitate a safer environment for those on foot.

In contrast, other options describe different types of designated areas. An area designed exclusively for vehicle use would not prioritize pedestrian safety, while a marked area for emergency vehicles serves a different purpose related to emergency response rather than pedestrian safety. Similarly, a loading and unloading zone for buses is specific to transit operations and does not embody the concept of protecting pedestrians within the traffic flow. Therefore, the option highlighting the protective nature of a safety zone for pedestrians aligns perfectly with its definition.