Analysis of the Impact of Countdown Signal Timers on Driving Behavior and Road Safety

Abstract

This article describes the safety and effectiveness issues related to signal countdown timers (SCT). These devices are used in many countries around the world. The impact of these devices on road safety and the effectiveness of traffic lights is presented. During a literature review, more than 18 aspects of device use were recognized. The research involved measurements carried out at three intersections in Płock (Poland). The initial and final period of the green signal for vehicles was analyzed. Headways, incidences of vehicles passing through after the end of the green signal, and red-light violations were examined. Additionally, a fuel consumption analysis and a case study of a road crash in Szczecin (Poland) are presented. Problems related to signal countdown timers working during traffic light failure are described. The research shows different influences of signal countdown timers at various intersections. It was observed that SCTs increase the number of red-light violations and during the red-amber signal. On the other hand, the number of entries during the amber signal with SCTs is lower. A literature review also indicated that the use of SCT causes a reduction of start-up time (positive impact) and increases vehicle speed (negative impact). The article concludes that SCTs do not always fulfill their role in improving road safety and control efficiency. Conclusions can address various stakeholders, including drivers, road authorities, and traffic engineers.

Vehicle and Traffic Safety

“…Several studies referred to selected problems in the reconstruction of road accidents [5,22,28]. A separate group of papers analyzed selected aspects of road infrastructure and traffic control [3,6,23,24]. All of the data show that the weakest link in the road safety system is man, and more specifically, vehicle drivers.…”

Effective and Acceptable Eco-Driving Guidance for Human-Driving Vehicles: A Review

“…From the perspective of vehicles, technologies such as emission after-treatment and vehicle fleet electrification can lead to a substantial decrease in emissions and fuel consumption [ 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 ]. Methods that mitigate traffic congestion, such as adaptive signal timing control, countdown signal timers, predictive cruise control, and connected automated vehicles (CAVs) can also effectively control traffic emissions through shorter delays and less stop-and-go operations [ 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 ]. Compared to the above-mentioned methods, adopting ecological driving behaviour (eco-driving) is a more cost-effective method because it does not require the upgrade of the vehicle powertrain or the reconstruction of infrastructure.…”

Exploring the Influence of Signal Countdown Timers on Driver Behavior: An Analysis of Pedestrian–Vehicle Conflicts at Signalized Intersections

“…Also, some studies have reported the positive effects of PSCTs on increasing pedestrian volume. Furthermore, research ( 8 , 10 , 21 ) has shown that the presence of a PSCTs increases pedestrian reaction time and also increases pedestrian speed ( 8 ). Besides, the number of pedestrians increased on the Flashing Green (or Amber or Flashing Don’t Walk) Signal by installing a PSCTs.…”