Perceptions and Self-Reported Pedestrian Behavior at Signalized Crosswalks: A Comparative Survey in Greece and Italy
摘要
Urban environments face increasing challenges in ensuring pedestrian safety, particularly at signalized crosswalks where traffic lights grant pedestrians the right of way and vehicles are required to stop. These challenges, driven by growing traffic volumes and complex mobility systems, necessitate a careful balance between safety and efficiency. This study investigates pedestrian safety at signalized crosswalks in Thessaloniki, Greece (Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh) and Enna, Italy (Kore University of Enna) focusing on students as a key demographic. This research is based on a structured questionnaire survey administered to university students at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (Greece) and Kore University of Enna (Italy). The survey gathered information on demographic characteristics, crossing habits, perceived safety, and preferences for infrastructural improvements. Respondents also identified factors influencing their crossing decisions, such as urgency, signal duration, and vehicle speeds. The findings reveal that short green-light durations and vehicle non-compliance significantly compromise pedestrian safety. Issues such as inadequate crosswalk visibility and poor markings were also noted. Participants emphasized the need for stricter enforcement of traffic laws, improved lighting, and tactile pathways to enhance accessibility. This research highlights the importance of addressing both behavioral and infrastructural aspects of pedestrian safety. Recommendations include optimizing signal timings for diverse pedestrian speeds, raising driver awareness of pedestrian rights, and employing monitoring systems like traffic cameras. By integrating these measures, urban planners can create safer, more inclusive environments that prioritize pedestrian mobility while maintaining traffic efficiency.