Pushing the button or pushing the gap? An analysis of pedestrian crossing behavior at pedestrian hybrid beacons.

INTRODUCTION: Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons (PHBs) are traffic control devices installed at crosswalks to alert drivers of pedestrian presence through a sequence of yellow or red-light indications. The device is activated through a roadside pushbutton located at intersection and non-intersection locations, where most pedestrian fatalities occur. While PHBs are intended to enhance safety, their effectiveness depends on how well drivers and pedestrians understand them. Without clear comprehension from both groups, the intended safety benefits are limited. Previous studies have focused primarily on driver understanding and behavior at PHBs, revealing a significant gap concerning pedestrian comprehension and behavior. This current research addresses this gap through a quantitative analysis of pedestrian behavior at PHBs.

METHOD: A field study was conducted to capture naturalistic video data of pedestrians at 10 PHB midblock crossing locations across Massachusetts. The cameras were oriented to capture the entire crosswalk and surrounding areas to ensure pedestrian behavior can be assessed before, during, and after the crossing is completed.

RESULTS: The results of this research offer insight on pedestrian behaviors such as pushbutton utilization, waiting time, and crossing interval. Additionally, operational characteristics such as the "lockout" interval, which prevents the device from being activated multiple times within a specified duration, may influence pedestrian behavior.

CONCLUSIONS AND PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The study reveals areas of confusion that can be used to improve PHB signage and educational materials. Proper comprehension of PHBs is crucial to enhance pedestrian safety and maximize their effectiveness at otherwise dangerous crossing locations.