First gaining popularity in the early 2000s, pedestrian countdown timers are now widely implemented worldwide. These devices integrate a countdown display with pedestrian signals, showing the seconds remaining for pedestrians to safely complete their crossing.
Various research studies have explored their impact on road safety, particularly for pedestrians. Studies consistently show these timers reduce the number of pedestrians crossing late in the sequence, which, coupled with crash data, suggests potential trauma-reduction benefits.
Research also highlights possible “spillover” effects on vehicles. Drivers may use the timers to anticipate signal changes, either accelerating to clear an intersection or gauging whether they can safely proceed. A notable New Zealand study reviewed existing literature and found no evidence that the timers increase vehicle speeds.
Despite these advantages, technical challenges may limit their use in Victoria. The SCATS traffic signal coordination system, which dynamically adjusts signals across interconnected intersections, poses a significant hurdle. Its adaptive nature makes it difficult to display accurate countdowns.
Some of the research:
Boateng, R. A., Kwigizile, V., Miller, J. S., & Oh, J.-S. (2019). A justification for pedestrian countdown signals at signalized intersections: the safety impact on senior motorists. Journal of transport and health
Hussain, Q., Alhajyaseen, W. K. M., Brijs, K., Pirdavani, A., & Brijs, T. (2020). Innovative countermeasures for red light running prevention at signalized intersections: A driving simulator study. Accident Analysis & Prevention
Wanty, D. K., & Wilkie, S. (2010). Trialling pedestrian countdown timers at traffic signals.
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