Why can’t “walk” lights at crosswalks last long enough to cross a street?
Many citizens have expressed concern that the “walk” indication at signalized intersections does not give them enough time to cross the street safely. The “walk” light is meant to indicate to pedestrians that it is okay to begin crossing the street. The “walk” indication will not remain lit the entire time it takes someone to walk from one curb or island to another. When the indication switches to a flashing “don’t walk”, pedestrians in the crosswalk should continue crossing until they reach a sidewalk or safety island. The timing of the flashing “don’t walk” indication is designed to allow enough time for pedestrians to complete crossing at a normal pace; however, please do not begin crossing the street while “don’t walk” is flashing. Pedestrians who are in the crosswalk during the flashing “don’t walk” phase have the right-of-way provided they began crossing during the “walk” phase. Unfortunately, many motorists are impatient or unfamiliar with the law; thus, it is important to be al
