Pedestrian Signals
Pedestrian Signals - - A Sign of the Times
In a simpler time, there was considerably less traffic and pedestrians
could take their cues from the the same traffic light as motorists. Things
are more complicated these days, so it shouldn't be surprising that we,
at the Washington State Department of Transportation, get a number of
questions about pedestrian signals.
Pedestrian signals are installed for two main reasons:
Pedestrian signals are installed for two main reasons: a high volume of
foot traffic at an intersection, or the signals directing motorists don't
meet the needs of the pedestrians. For example, some intersections are
laid out at odd angles so traffic signals can't be seen by pedestrians.
In other cases, turning and merging lanes make intersections so complex
that special provisions must be made for pedestrians.
Shouldn't pedestrian signals be available at every intersection? Won't
that be safer? -
If existing traffic signals meet the needs of people on foot, the signals
are easy to see and provide plenty of time to cross safely so there is
no need for pedestrian signals. Pedestrian signals won't improve safety
in such cases, and are costly to purchase, install and operate.
Why does the signal switch to 'Don't Walk' before I get across the
street? -
Traffic flashing 'Don't Walk' or upraised hand is a warning to people
who have not yet entered the crosswalk. At a normal walking speed, these
folks won't have time to cross the intersection if they enter after the
message changes. Signals are times to allow plenty of time for people
who are already in the crosswalk to get safely across the street.
Is it really necessary for me to push a button to activate the pedestrian
signal? Can't I just wait for the light to change?
Where buttons are available to pedestrians, it's because the traffic signal
is timed for cars, not for people on foot. If you don't activate the pedestrian
signal, chances are the timing of the traffic light won't give you enough
time to cross safely.
So, can I count on a safe crossing if I carefully follow the pedestrian
signals?
The signals assign your legal rights in the intersection but in any contest
of right of way between pedestrians and vehicles, the pedestrian will
likely lose. The following suggestions are offered in the interest of
safety:
1. Cross intersections defensively
2. When crossing a street, regardless of the availability of signals,
cross as quickly as possible. Minimize your time in the roadway
3. Always watch for oncoming cars. You have a legal right to be there,
but that doesn't protect your from the illegal acts of others.
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