Fixed Illumination for Pedestrian Protection: Final Report

Abstract

FH 11-8034This document reports the findings and applications of research investigating the effectiveness of specially designed low pressure sodium luminaires to increase pedestrian safety at intersection crosswalks at night. It was found that the LPS systems had beneficial effects on the crossing environment, driver performance, and pedestrian behavior. Illumination intensity was increased as much as thirty-fold, resulting in an average of 9% increase of available time for drivers to respond. Pedestrians appeared to be more alert in crossing and make better use of the crosswalk. The driving environment has been improved by reduction in headlight glare effects. Local residents and business people expressed satisfaction with the system applications at all seven test sites