The UK Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions (DETR) has commissioned the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL) to investigate how pedestrians behave at traffic signals, relate geometric and control aspects of current traffic signal layouts to accident records, and attempt to identify features leading to safe or unsafe operation. This paper presents the findings of some of the research conducted so far. Literature reviews have considered relevant previous work. In addition, the STATS19 database was used to identify pedestrian accidents at signalised junctions. Police files, produced after 60 fatal and 60 serious injury accidents at signalised junctions, were examined in detail in an attempt to identify any patterns or trends. The results of these studies were used to identify measures which might be implemented to improve pedestrian safety at signalised junctions. Three sites were selected for before and after video surveys, which will investigate the impact of measures to improve safety. The measures were to: (1) lay thicker road markings; (2) increase the distance between the stopline and the recommended crossing area from 2m to 3m; (3) colour the crossing area; (4) install studs and guard rails; (5) lower pavements; (6) raise the number of signalised crossings; and (7) increase safety otherwise.
Abstract