[timomaxgalvin]

The distinction is about pedestrians being forced to use crossings. In the UK you can use them, but you can cross where you like if you want to.

[Delphiza]

Also in the UK we have pedestrian refuge islands. Not a crossing, as there is no pedestrian priority, but useful little bits of road furniture that reduces the likelihood of getting mown down by cars. As a side effect they also tend to slow down car traffic due to narrowing of the road. Americans may see them as official jaywalking points.

https://www.trafficchoices.co.uk/traffic-schemes/refuge-isla...

[Grimbat]

Not entirely true. Generally true in England & Wales and Scotland aside from motorways, but in Northern Ireland the cops can fine you for it, although it rarely seems to be enforced.

https://www.psni.police.uk/sites/default/files/2023-01/00008...