Exploration of Pedestrian Refuge Effect on Safety Crossing at Signalized Intersection

Pedestrian safety has become a major issue in the traffic management systems of major cities in China. This is particularly true where a signalized intersection is relatively large and a significant number of pedestrians must wait to cross. This study investigated the safety issues of pedestrian crossings at signalized intersections in Beijing. Field observations were conducted and evaluated, and a questionnaire survey was administered to both pedestrians and motorists at 45 signalized intersections in Beijing. Safety implications of pedestrian crossings at wider signalized intersections and traffic conflict analyses are elaborated on with respect to the survey. It can be concluded from this study that it is vital to install a pedestrian refuge island at the medians of roadways to provide pedestrians with a risk-free waiting area to complete two-step crossings. This measure is particularly necessary at signalized intersections where green time designated for pedestrian crossing is scarce. This study shows that a refuge island has proved acceptable to both pedestrians and drivers.