Index for Assessing Pedestrian Safety at Intersections

Abstract

The primary objective of this study was to develop an index that would allow engineers, planners, and other practitioners to prioritize intersection crosswalks with respect to pedestrian safety. The study involved collecting data on pedestrian crashes, conflicts, and avoidance maneuvers as well as subjective ratings of intersection video clips by pedestrian professionals. Sixty-eight pedestrian crosswalks were selected for the pedestrian analysis from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; San Jose, California; and Miami–Dade County, Florida. A predictive model, the pedestrian intersection safety index (Ped ISI), was developed primarily on the basis of intersection ratings and avoidance maneuvers. Variables in Ped ISI included the number of through lanes, 85th percentile vehicle speed, type of intersection control (signal or stop sign), main street traffic volume, and area type. Through a user-friendly guide, Ped ISI can be used to identify which crosswalks in a city have the highest priority for pedestrian safety improvements. Specific countermeasures can then be implemented to reduce certain types of hazards. This tool should also be helpful in influencing future intersection design.