Why is the duration of a walk light so short?
The walk light indicates when pedestrians are permitted to begin crossing. In Richmond, the standard duration of the walk light is eight seconds but for some directions it can be greater when different modes of signal operation are in effect. The walk light is followed by an orange flashing hand “pedestrian clearance” indication. The clearance duration is timed, based on a specific pedestrian walking speed to cross the entire intersection. If a pedestrian steps off the curb and begins crossing just as the hand starts flashing, there is adequate time to finish crossing. If a pedestrian starts crossing after the hand indication starts flashing, there may not be adequate time to cross safely. For more information on pedestrian signal indications, see Signal Devices.
