Advance yield markings and drivers’ performance in response to multiple-threat scenarios at mid-block crosswalks

This study compares, on a simulator, drivers’ performance (eye fixations and yielding behavior) at marked mid-block crosswalks in multi-threat scenarios when the crosswalks have advance yield markings and pedestrian crosswalk prompt signs versus their performance in such scenarios when the crosswalks have standard markings. Advance yield markings and prompt signs in multi-threat scenarios lead to changes in drivers’ behaviors which are likely to reduce pedestrian–vehicle conflicts, including increases in the likelihood that the driver glances towards the pedestrian, increases in the distance at which the first glance towards the pedestrian is taken, and increases the likelihood of yielding to the pedestrian.

Research highlights▶ Simulator comparison of advance yield and standard markings at midblock crosswalks. ▶ Multi-threat scenarios used: driver's view of pedestrian obstructed by vehicle in travel lane. ▶ Thirty-six participants randomly assigned to advance yield or standard markings. ▶ Use of eye movements, percent yielding, yielding distance & crashes as measures of effectiveness. ▶ Drivers in advance yield condition behave in ways which reduce pedestrian-vehicle conflicts.