Crossing Behaviors of Pedestrians at Signalized Intersections: Observational Study and Survey in China

Abstract

In China pedestrian crashes make up a large proportion of road casualties and are more likely to occur at signalized intersections. This study examines the behavioral characteristics of pedestrians at such sites and the factors affecting pedestrian behavior. Data on pedestrian behavior were obtained from video images of pedestrian movements recorded at 26 signalized intersections in three Chinese cities, and 598 pedestrians who were using crosswalks were surveyed for their perceptions about the crossing environment. The behavior data indicated that most pedestrians walked normally when they crossed roads; the rate of compliance with traffic rules for all pedestrians was 62.8%. The differences in crossing behavior by gender, age, and the type of pedestrian group were then identified. The results showed that women and middle-aged individuals were more likely to violate traffic rules. In comparison with a single pedestrian and pedestrians in a pair, pedestrians in a group tended not to look at traffic signals. Analysis of the rates of compliance with traffic rules at crosswalks also indicated that crossing distance, signal timing, the presence of traffic police, and pedestrian volume had different effects. Moreover, the major reasons for crossing on red and opinions on waiting time were obtained by analysis of the survey data. For example, the largest proportion (30.25%) of surveyed individuals indicated that they violated traffic rules to save time and for convenience. Findings from this study can help researchers and practitioners understand pedestrian behavior at crosswalks at signalized intersections and thus create a better street-crossing environment for all pedestrians.