Pedestrian Deaths Are Rising in the Dark—But Simple Solutions Can Help
A staggering 75% of the 7,522 pedestrians killed in motor vehicle crashes in 2022 lost their lives at night. With pedestrian fatalities continuing to rise, particularly in poorly lit areas, a groundbreaking Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) study reveals a simple but powerful solution: crosswalk illuminators and rectangular rapid flashing beacons (RRFBs).
The researchers tested how different lighting treatments at crosswalks affect driver behavior at night—particularly their likelihood of yielding to pedestrians and reducing speed.The results? Dramatic improvements in driver compliance and pedestrian safety when these measures are in place.
The Study: Pedestrian Crosswalk Safety at Night
The study observed driver behavior at four crosswalks under different lighting conditions at night.:The locations included:
Two T-intersections with speed limits of 30 mph
One four-way intersection with a 30 mph limit
One midblock crosswalk with a 25 mph limit
Each location lacked stop signs or traffic signals, making them high-risk zones for pedestrians. Existing lighting conditions varied significantly, with the midblock location meeting federal guidelines for brightness (20 lux) while the others had minimal lighting (less than 3 lux).
The study compared driver responses under the following conditions:
Continuous illuminators (lights that remain on)
Triggered illuminators (lights activated when a pedestrian is present)
RRFBs alone (flashing beacons at the crosswalk)
RRFBs plus triggered illuminators (combining both systems)
Researchers analyzed how these factors affected driver yielding (stopping for pedestrians) and speed reductions(whether drivers slowed down by at least 5 mph or 10 mph).
Key Findings: Brightening Crosswalks Saves Lives
The study confirmed that any type of added lighting or flashing beacons improve pedestrian crosswalk safety at night, with the strongest effects occurring in poorly lit areas.
🚦 Drivers were more than three times as likely to yield when continuous or triggered crosswalk lighting was present in dark locations.
🚦 Drivers were more than 13 times as likely to yield when both RRFBs and triggered lighting were used together.
🚦 Speed reductions of 10 mph or more tripled in dimly lit locations when crosswalk lighting was installed.
🚦 The combination of RRFBs and triggered lighting had the greatest effect, significantly increasing yielding compared to using either measure alone.
Why These Safety Measures Work
The study highlights a crucial distinction:
RRFBs help get a driver's attention, signaling that a pedestrian is present.
Crosswalk lighting helps drivers see the pedestrian, which is just as critical for preventing accidents.
When combined, these two elements provide the best chance for pedestrian visibility and safety.
IIHS President David Harkey summarized it best:"These results show that simple changes can have a dramatic impact on pedestrian safety. When drivers are yielding, pedestrians aren’t dying."
What This Means for Pedestrian Safety in South Carolina
Crossing the street at night can be especially dangerous for pedestrians, particularly in areas with poor lighting. This study highlights the urgent need for better infrastructure and enhanced safety measures to protect those on foot. South Carolina is consistently ranked among the most hazardous states for pedestrians, yet many roads—especially in suburban and rural areas—lack proper lighting and safe crosswalks. To reduce the risk of accidents, local governments should prioritize installing crosswalk illuminators and rectangular rapid flashing beacons (RRFBs) in high-risk areas.
Legal Implications: When Drivers Fail to Yield
At Palmetto State Injury Lawyers, we have witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of pedestrian accidents. South Carolina law requires motorists to stop for pedestrians in marked crosswalks (see, S.C. Code §56-5-3130), and failing to do so can result in catastrophic or fatal injuries. While improved lighting and flashing beacons help make roads safer, drivers are still legally responsible for yielding to pedestrians. When drivers neglect this duty, they can be held liable for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, Palmetto State Injury Lawyers is ready to fight for you. Drivers who fail to yield can and should be held accountable, and we are committed to securing the compensation you deserve.
🚶 Injured in a pedestrian accident? Let us help you seek justice. Contact us today for a free consultation.
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