The Effects of Colored Crosswalks on Pedestrian and Drivers’ Behaviors at Signalized Intersections

Abstract

Colored crosswalks were designed to enhance the safety of pedestrians. This study examined the effects of the colored crosswalks at two sites. Results found that the effect of the colored crosswalks on drivers’ behavior was varied depending on the vehicle and turning movement types. The interactions between vehicles and pedestrians increased after the colored crosswalks were in place. Pedestrians suffered less severe conflict from right-turning cars at both sites, while this effect was noted from right-turning motorcycles at one site. Pedestrians suffered more conflicts with left-turning motorcycles. The number of pedestrians per vehicle yield increased for either cars or motorcycles and turning left or right. However, drivers’ yielding behaviors had not significantly changed. These results indicate that the colored crosswalks could encourage pedestrians to step onto the crosswalks. Accordingly, more pedestrians may suffer severe conflicts with vehicles if drivers are not willing to yield to pedestrians.