THE INFLUENCE OF TRAFFIC SIGNAL TYPE ON PEDESTRIAN BEHAVIOUR AND SAFETY IN SCHOOL ZONES

As a vulnerable category of road users, pedestrians are often exposed to conflict situations, even when crossing the road at designated pedestrian crossings. Pedestrian safety depends on their behaviour and compliance with traffic signals, as well as the behaviour of drivers and their attitude towards this category of road user. This study analysed the behaviour of pedestrians crossing the road at signalised pedestrian crossings in school zones. Particular attention was paid to the influence of the type and mode of operation of traffic lights on pedestrian safety, and on the occurrence of irregular behaviour when crossing the road. Additionally, the analysis includes the traffic conditions and characteristics of the observed locations. The results indicate that the appropriate selection and setting of traffic lights can significantly impact pedestrian behaviour, reducing the occurrence of irregular road crossings and improving pedestrian safety in school zones.