While public policies in recent decades have tended to focus on the efficiency of vehicular traffic, with the construction of urban expressways and highways to mitigate issues such as greenhouse gas emissions and reduce travel times, the magnitude and impact of fatalities and serious injuries from traffic incidents have made it imperative to reflect on, and above all, act to balance these initiatives with the safety and well-being of pedestrians and cyclists.
Pedestrian crossings are not simply points of intersection on vehicle routes; they are vital spaces for the mobility and safety of people. In urban and road contexts where vehicular traffic is intense, pedestrians often find themselves in vulnerable situations. In this context, the concept of “safe pedestrian crossings” becomes highly relevant, as they can be considered fundamental elements in promoting more inclusive mobility and environmental respect.
The safety of pedestrians and cyclists at these crossings should be a priority in urban design, to protect the most vulnerable users and to promote a shift in mobility culture, encouraging more active and environmentally respectful forms of travel.
What is a Safe Pedestrian Crossing?
A “safe pedestrian crossing” is a designated place for pedestrians to cross the street with the utmost safety possible. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a safe crossing incorporates adequate visibility, clear signage, and measures to reduce vehicle speed.
Let’s break down each of these key elements:
1. Adequate Visibility
Adequate visibility at pedestrian crossings is vital to ensure that drivers can see pedestrians in time to stop or yield, and vice versa. This includes:
- Proper lighting: Adequate lighting at crossings significantly improves visibility for both pedestrians and drivers, especially at night or in low-light conditions.
- Reflective paint: Using reflective paint on crosswalks enhances their visibility in low-light conditions, a practice supported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the U.S.
- Removal of visual obstructions: Ensuring that crossings are free of obstacles such as trees, signs, or parked vehicles that may obscure pedestrians, as recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).
2. Clear Signage
Clear and understandable signage is essential for guiding both drivers and pedestrians. This involves:
- Visible vertical signage: Signs such as “Stop,” “Yield,” “School Zone,” etc., should be visible and understandable to all road users.
- Delineated and visible horizontal signage: This type of signage, such as stop lines or zebra crossing lines, should be clear and well-maintained. The NHTSA emphasizes the importance of these markings for pedestrian safety.
- Audible and tactile signals for visually and hearing impaired individuals: Incorporating audible and tactile signals on sidewalks and traffic lights for people with disabilities.
3. Vehicle Speed Reduction Measures
Reducing vehicle speed in areas with high pedestrian traffic is essential for preventing road accidents. Examples of these measures include:
- Reduced speed zones: Establishing lower speed limits in pedestrian and school areas. The General Law of Mobility and Road Safety establishes that maximum speeds should not exceed the following:
- 20 km/h in hospital, nursing home, shelter, and care home areas.
- 20 km/h in school areas on secondary roads and tertiary streets; and up to 30 km/h in school areas on primary roads and highways.
- 30 km/h on secondary streets and tertiary streets.
- Speed bumps: The NHTSA suggests using speed bumps or speed-reducing strips near pedestrian crossings to force vehicles to reduce their speed.
- Widening sidewalks and narrowing streets: These physical measures force drivers to reduce speed and increase safety for pedestrians.
Are there different types of pedestrian crossings?
Safe pedestrian crossings can be classified according to their design, location, and the safety measures they incorporate. It is vital to understand these types to implement effective road safety strategies. Some of the most common crossings are:
1. Street-level Crossings
These are the most common and are directly at road level. Safety at these crossings is achieved through:
- Zebra crossings: By regulation, they are white stripes, alternated with a dark color, usually black or even yellow, indicating where pedestrians should cross.
- Pedestrian traffic lights: Specific signals to control pedestrian and vehicular flow.
- Additional signage: Such as “Stop” or “Yield” signs for drivers.
2. Elevated Crossings and Pedestrian Bridges
These crossings are built above street level and are especially useful in high-traffic areas or main roads. Their advantages include:
- By completely separating pedestrians and vehicles, the chances of accidents are significantly reduced.
- They do not interrupt vehicular flow.
- They should include ramps or elevators for people with disabilities.
3. Underground Crossings
Pedestrian tunnels allow crossing beneath streets or highways. They are effective in:
- Reducing congestion: In areas with high pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
- Protecting pedestrians: From weather conditions and direct traffic.
4. Refuge Islands
These are safe spaces located in the middle of roads, allowing pedestrians to cross in two stages. They are especially useful in:
- Multi-lane streets: Where crossing in one stage can be dangerous.
- Areas for vulnerable pedestrians: Such as children or the elderly who may need more time to cross.
5. Sidewalk Extensions
These elements extend into the street from the existing sidewalk, reducing the width of the road at pedestrian crossings. They are effective for:
- Reducing crossing distance: Making it faster and safer for pedestrians to cross.
- Improving visibility: For both pedestrians and drivers.
While infrastructure is fundamental, it alone is not sufficient to guarantee the safety of road users. Road safety education from an early age is crucial, especially to instill in children the importance of respecting traffic signals and using pedestrian crossings correctly. Likewise, it is essential to adopt specific measures to protect older adults, who are often more vulnerable to pedestrian accidents.
Shared responsibility between drivers and pedestrians plays a key role in this effort. Drivers must always be attentive to pedestrians, respect speed limits, and yield at pedestrian crossings. On the other hand, pedestrians must ensure they cross streets safely, using designated crossings and following traffic signals. Road safety is everyone’s responsibility.
