- While flashing lights and beacons located at midblock and intersection crosswalks alert motorists to the presence of pedestrians in crosswalks, they do not necessarily enhance pedestrian visibility.
- Use either in-sign flashing lights or sign-mounted flashing beacons to supplement pavement markings and signs at uncontrolled crosswalks. Using either of these devices alongside in-pavement flashing lights amplifies a motorist’s awareness of pedestrians in crosswalks. Ensure the in-sign flashing lights are coordinated with in-pavement flashing lights.
- Yellow in-pavement flashing lights can be an effective way to delineate uncontrolled crosswalks in places that drivers do not expect to see a crosswalk or where the surrounding environment contains many distractions. They should be used only at marked crosswalks and be accompanied by warning signs informing drivers they need to yield or stop for pedestrians. The lights should be activated by a pushbutton or sensors that detect pedestrians (the latter is a preferred option). Locate in-pavement lights so they do not pose a safety hazard to bicyclists.
- In-pavement flashing lights are a good option on routes that carry 5,000 – 30,000 vehicles per day and/or accommodate at least 100 pedestrians per day.
CONTACT:
Chris VanDyke
Research Scientist | Program Manager
chrisvandyke@uky.edu
