Traffic

Seattle intersections with history of pedestrian collisions giving walkers more time to cross

SEATTLE — The Seattle Department of Transportation says pedestrians are getting more time to cross at some intersections, but drivers are getting a bonus too.

SDOT calls the increase a “leading pedestrian interval.” It works by turning the walk signal on 3 to 7 seconds before drivers get a green light.

The idea is that giving pedestrians a head start not only gives them more time to cross but makes them more visible to drivers who are turning.

It may only be a few seconds, but it can make a big difference in pedestrian safety. The Federal Highway Administration said intersections with the leading pedestrian interval installed have a 60 percent reduction in collisions involving pedestrians and vehicles.

SDOT is installing them at intersections where such collisions have been a problem.

Drivers will also get more time. At some intersections, SDOT is installing "lag times" where the walk signal will end early and drivers will get a few extra seconds to be able to make a turn.

If you've tried to make a turn at a busy intersection where there's heavy pedestrian traffic, you know that by the time everyone has crossed, often the light has turned red again.

Lag time gives drivers a chance to make their turn and clear out an intersection.

For more information, visit the SDOT blog.