Citation

Corben BF, Triggs T, Diamantopoulou K, Wilson N. Proc. Australas. Road Safety Res. Policing Educ. Conf. 2000; 4: 75-80.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2000, copyright holder varies, Publisher Monash University)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

As part of the City of Stonnington's WalkSafe Program, coloured surfacing of pedestrian cross-walks at traffic signals was identified as a potential pedestrian safety measure to change drivers' perceptions of vehicle-pedestrian conflicts and priority at busy, complex locations. This paper summarises a study which assessed the potential benefits of highlighted cross-walks in Stonnington, the results of which can guide other municipalities with similar safety concerns. If effective, highlighted cross-walks in complex traffic settings should reduce a substantial proportion of pedestrian crashes, as well as reducing injury severity. Increased likelihood of pedestrians crossing at treated crossing points compared with other locations, higher priority given by approaching drivers to the possibility of encountering pedestrians, and improved detection of pedestrians are among the main benefits identified. Pedestrians interviewed about the treatments reported favourable attitude and behaviour changes. Observational studies showed a general tendency for greater separation between pedestrians and vehicles after highlighted cross-walks were introduced.