Pedestrians crossing road: methodology. Research of new approaches to deal with pedestrians crossing roads

Road traffic accidents are still the most common cause of death and injury of EU inhabitants. Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users, since they have no physical protection to reduce the road accident effects. Although the number of pedestrians involved in road accidents has decreased over the last 20 years in the countries of ECMT, more than other categories of road users, the fact is that the share of pedestrians among road accident victims is still very high. The cause of the high pedestrian accident rate is not mere inattention or carelessness, but it is often the unsuitable traffic environment showing a number of factors which indirectly cause road accidents. This methodology aims to provide basic information on the correct design of pedestrian crossings and places for crossing roads. However, it is not the goal to repeat information from relevant technical standards, but rather to complement such standards with illustrative examples and designs. The recommendations specified in the methodology are particularly applicable in urban areas. Moreover, the methodology can be used by the expert community to promote principles of improved pedestrian safety in traffic.