Pedestrian Signal Safety - AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety

100
3 5 .0 %
3 0 .0 %
2 5 .0 %
2 0 .0 %
1 5 .0 %
1 0 .0 %
5 .0 %
0 .0 %
3 3 .3 %
High traffic volumes
5 .6 %
Traffic type/mix
1 1 .1 % 1 1 .1 %
High speeds
Pedestrian-vehicle conflict areas
LT phase follows pedestrian crossings
5 .6 % 5 .6 % 5 .6 % 5 .6 %
Pedestrians continue to cross during FDW
Minor approach w/ ped. detection crossing major arterial
PCD signals nearby
Figure A-6. Traffic operations criteria for considering implementing PCD signals.
1 6 .7 %
Existing pedestrian actuated signal
Monroe County, New York developed a traffic operational criterion to assist in the decision to use a
PCD signal or a traditional pedestrian signal (TPS). The County considers the influence of conflicting
vehicles that could delay a pedestrian briefly during the flashing DON’T WALK (FDW) interval.
Locations with heavier right-turning and left-turning vehicle volumes have a higher potential to
delay a pedestrian’s crossing. The time remaining information would be helpful in this situation to
reassure a pedestrian that there is still adequate crossing time available for the completion of the
crossing. Monroe County developed a draft guideline for when this condition exists: PCD signals are
recommended where right-turning and left-turning volumes that conflict with the crosswalk are greater
than 400 vehicles per hour.
Figure A-7 shows the responses provided under the roadway characteristics criterion. A total of 20
responses were received for this issue. Wide crossings were mentioned in 80 percent (n = 16) of the
responses. Two other responses included multi-lane roadways (this could be another way of stating
wide crossings) and complex intersections containing unusual geometrics.