What makes people cross? Waiting more than 30 seconds for the green man

Research has shown that 30 seconds is the longest a pedestrian will wait at a signalised crossings before attempting to cross against the ‘red man’[1].

The charity is asking members of the public to nominate a crossing for their local Highway Authority to review, in the hope that it will encourage the relevant authority to reduce the waiting time and improve pedestrians’ journeys.

Living Streets campaigners in London successfully worked with Transport for London to reduce unnecessary wait times[2]. Their project showed that crossing users reported a significantly better experience where wait times had been reduced from up to two minutes down to 30 seconds or less.

Research shows that over a quarter of people (26%) would walk more on their local streets if there were more or better crossings.[3]

Stephen Edwards, Chief Executive, Living Streets said:

“When it comes to crossing waiting times, less is more. We know pedestrians are more likely to risk crossing the road when they are made to wait.

“Reducing wait times for pedestrians is a quick, low-cost intervention that improves safety and gives priority to people using the cheapest and cleanest way to get around.”

People can use the form on Living Streets’ website to write to their Highway Authority. Visit livingstreets.org.uk/BetterCrossings

[1] Factors influencing pedestrian safety (tfl.gov.uk)

[2] https://www.livingstreets.org.uk/about-us/our-work-in-action/crossings-campaigning-in-london

[3] YouGov Plc research.  Total sample size was 2076 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 21 – 22 June 2022.  The figures have been weighted and are representative of all GB adults (aged 18+).