Walking across streets, especially in areas with a lot of traffic or at busy intersections, can sometimes feel unsafe. Thankfully, there are technologies like pedestrian crossing beacons to help increase safety. However, not all beacons work the same, and knowing the differences between them can help you make safer choices. What should you know about Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons (PHBs) and Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs)?
What is a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB)?
A Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon, also known as a HAWK (High-Intensity Activated crossWalK) signal, helps pedestrians cross busy streets safely. It stays off until a pedestrian pushes the button to cross. Then, it follows this light sequence:
- Flashing yellow to warn drivers about the upcoming change.
- Solid yellow telling drivers to get ready to stop.
- Solid red making drivers stop.
- Flashing red telling drivers they can go if the crosswalk is empty.
This sequence grabs drivers’ attention and controls the traffic flow, providing a safe time for pedestrians to cross.
What is a Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB)?
RFBs improve pedestrian safety at crosswalks without traffic signals and mid-block crossings. These beacons are usually installed on both sides of the crosswalk. These beacons do not control the traffic flow like PHBs do; they depend on drivers paying attention to the flashing lights and stopping.
When someone wants to cross, they activate the RRFB, and it uses bright, flashing lights to alert drivers. RRFBs also sometimes use video or infra-red to activate, which means that every pedestrian that passes by them activates the signal, whether or not they push a button.
Which is safer for pedestrians?
Studies show that both PHBs and RRFBs greatly improve pedestrian safety by reducing accidents and making more drivers stop. Some of the factors that influence which is safer include:
- Safety: PHBs, with their yellow and red signals similar to traditional traffic signals, create a clear expectation for drivers to stop. This can offer a higher level of control over vehicle movements, making PHBs safer for pedestrians.
- Compliance: Studies suggest that while both beacon types improve pedestrian safety, drivers do not necessarily comply with these signals at the same rate. Drivers may be more likely to yield and stop for a PHB compared to an RRFB, which relies on drivers to yield voluntarily.
- Pedestrian usage: While drivers are more likely to stop for a PHB, pedestrians are less likely to use these signals than they are RRFBs. This is because PHBs have a longer wait time, and pedestrians may choose to jaywalk instead of using the signal.
- Traffic volume and speed: Higher-speed roads with more lanes may benefit more from PHBs due to their stronger enforcement of driver behavior. Pedestrians are also more willing to use PHBs on wider roads or roads with heavy traffic.
While both types of beacons improve safety, their effectiveness can also depend on proper usage and compliance from both drivers and pedestrians. As a pedestrian, it’s crucial to understand how these technologies work and to use them as intended to protect yourself from a pedestrian accident. Your awareness and understanding could make all the difference in ensuring your safety and the safety of others on the road.