Traffic note 14

Appendix 4: Pedestrian crossing warning lights

Last updated: July 2009

Print version: Appendix 4: Pedestrian crossing warning lights [PDF, 49 KB]

Purpose of trial

The purpose of the trial was to evaluate the effectiveness of a pavement embedded flashing lights warning system. This system aims to give drivers an early warning pedestrians are about to cross a pedestrian crossing.

The main objectives were to:

1. Research in-pavement flashing light warning systems on two pedestrian crossings in Christchurch. The first involves connecting flashing lights directly to a power source, while the second system is powered by induction
2. Research an in-pavement flashing light warning system on a pedestrian crossing in Auckland
3. Communicate with suppliers for detailed specifications of this equipment and associated costs of acquiring, installing and maintaining the in-pavement flashing lights
4. Purchase and test the technologies at the three selected crossing sites where there are existing safety concerns that need addressing
5. Collect 'before', 'during' and 'after' data in order to evaluate the effectiveness of the systems
6. Determine preferred technology and hardware in terms of effectiveness and long-term maintenance
7. Establish on-going maintenance issues, expenditure profiles and cost-benefit information
8. Publish the findings of the trial in a user-friendly report
9. The Director of Land Transport (Director) considered the application for a trial and his approval was published in the NZ Gazette on 19 January 2006. (See attached copy [PDF, 23 KB] (PDF, 24 KB).)

Need for approval

The Director needed to approve the pedestrian crossing warning lights as they require flashing yellow lights currently not permitted within existing rules.

Results

The results of the trial over two years (from 1 March 2006 to 28 February 2008) have been positive with the warning light system shown to be effective in heightening driver awareness when approaching a crossing. The NZ Transport Agency has therefore extended the approval of the trial sites so this device can be recommended for inclusion in an amendment to the Land Transport Rule: Traffic Control Devices 2004.

Contact details

For further information about the trial please contact:

David Pinkney, Christchurch City Council, PO Box 237, Christchurch
Phone 03 941 8027 email david.pinkney@ccc.govt.nz

Mitchell Tse, Auckland City Council, Private Bag 92516, Wellesley St, Auckland
Phone 09 373 6352 email mitch.tse@aucklandcity.govt.nz

Wayne Osmers, NZ Transport Agency, PO Box 13 364, Christchurch 8141
Phone 03 964 2840 email wayne.osmers@nzta.govt.nz

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