A dangerous crossing at SE Foster near 80th, where two pedestrians were killed in November of 2009, is getting a new crosswalk treatment in the coming weeks. This treatment, called a "rapid flash beacon" is activated by the pedestrian's push of a button. The LED lights then flash on the crosswalk sign, creating a very bright, visible signal that a pedestrian wants to cross.
According to the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) website "Rapid Flash Beacons combined with signage and pavement markings have been shown to increase the percentage of motorists who stop for pedestrians from approximately 18 percent before the improvement to nearly 80 percent after."
This is good news, considering that between 1990 and 2000, 37 percent of pedestrian injuries occurred in crosswalks due to driver error.
Below is a video from the beacon manufacturer's website that shows the rapid flash beacon in action.
Remember also, that drivers have specific responsibilities to pedestrians at crosswalks. You must stop and stay stopped for pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks. If the pedestrian doesn't activate the beacon, you must still stop for them.
This is a great video to help remind you of Oregon crosswalk laws. Enjoy!
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