How are signals timed to accommodate pedestrians?
Crossing the street, particularly at a busy intersection, can be dangerous for pedestrians. Traffic signals are designed to make it clear to pedestrians when they can cross and when they should not. Here are some characteristics of pedestrian-related signals: • When the walk symbol (see left) is illuminated, pedestrians are advised to check for turni ng vehicles and then start walking across the roadway. The length of the WALK phase is based upon the minimum start-up time for pedestrians and is typically four to seven seconds. • When the dont walk symbol (see left) is flashing, it is not safe for pedestrians to start crossing. A common misconception is that pedestrians should not be in the crosswalk when the WALK sign changes to a flashing DONT WALK sign. However, pedestrians who are already crossing when it starts to flash should have sufficient time to safely finish crossing. • When the dont walk symbol (see left) is constantly illuminated, it is not safe for pedestrians to start cro
