How A Simple ‘Pause’ Slashes Accident Rates by 47%

How a simple 'pause' slashes accident rates by 47%

“Slowing down saves lives,” is no longer an idle lecture for reckless drivers. A groundbreaking study by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) ties a humble intersection delay to a whopping 47% drop in pedestrian conflicts. Let’s delve deeper.

The Magic of a Momentary Delay

Such reductions in pedestrian mishaps came, against all odds, from extending the beginning of the green signal phase for pedestrians while keeping vehicles at a standstill. This countermeasure, known as the Leading Pedestrian Interval (LPI), allows pedestrians to firmly establish their presence in intersections before any vehicle movement.

Imagine you’re at an intersection with a walk sign. As a pedestrian, you get to cross a few seconds earlier while vehicles still see the red light. This extra time boosts your visibility, increases your safety and also improves the flow of foot traffic.

The Power of the Pause: A Deep Dive into the Data

According to the FHWA’s study, when this critical safety measure, the LPI, is implemented, pedestrian and vehicle crashes at intersections plummeted nearly in half— a decline responsible for thousands of lives saved and countless injuries avoided.

Referring to this strategy, Dominic Wyatt, International Drivers Association motoring expert, said, “Even a simple measure like giving pedestrians an additional few seconds to start crossing before vehicles can go helps dramatically reduce accidents. It’s an easy change that can have massive impact.

Now, that interruption at stoplights may not seem so frustrating, would it?

Practical Tips for Motorists and Pedestrians

So how do we ensure these measures run smoothly?

For Motorists

  1. Respect the Pause: Follow traffic signals, especially the LPI. Remember, red means stop.
  2. Patience Pays: Don’t rush to speed off the moment the light turns green. Take a moment, scan the crosswalk for any late-run walkers.
  3. Alertness is Key: Always stay alert, especially when turning at intersections, as pedestrians may be crossing.

For Pedestrians

  1. Utilize the Head Start: Capitalize on LPI timing.
  2. Observe and Cross: Even if the walk sign is illuminated, ensure all vehicles are at a stop before crossing.
  3. Stay Visible: Try to make eye contact with stopped drivers, establishing your presence.


Everyone has their part to play in making intersections safer. Remember, “A moment’s patience can prevent a major accident”, advised Wyatt.

It’s about Time, not Speed

We might all wish for a faster, more streamlined daily commute, but as this study shows, sometimes slowing things down is exactly what speeds us along to a safer, more secure journey.

It’s a new spin on an old saying: Stop, look and wait before you go. This cautious behavior isn’t just good manners – it’s a matter of life and death on the road. Let’s embrace the pause, shall we?

Please credit https://internationaldriversassociation.com/ if you decide to use the research.

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