During the holiday season, pedestrian accidents spike significantly as streets, parking lots, and retail centers become congested with shoppers, travelers, and event-goers. The surge in both foot and vehicle traffic, coupled with shorter daylight hours and sometimes inclement weather, increases the likelihood of accidents. Many pedestrians are distracted by holiday activities, carrying shopping bags, checking mobile devices, or navigating through unfamiliar areas, making them less aware of surrounding vehicles. Meanwhile, drivers may also be distracted, rushed, or fatigued, especially in crowded shopping districts, casinos and parking structures. These factors create a perfect storm for accidents, underscoring the need for heightened caution and improved safety measures, such as well-marked crosswalks, increased lighting, and traffic calming efforts to ensure safer environments for pedestrians during the bustling holiday season.

The Problem: Pedestrian Accidents in High-Traffic Areas

1. Parking Structure

   Parking garages are often dimly lit, with tight corners, low visibility, and a lack of clear pedestrian pathways. During the holiday season, the increased flow of vehicles and pedestrians heightens the likelihood of accidents. Many drivers are often more focused on finding parking spaces than watching for pedestrians, while pedestrians may be distracted by holiday preparations, carrying bags, or handling children.

2. Retail Shopping Malls

   Shopping mall parking lots and crosswalks are another area of concern, especially during peak shopping seasons. Crowded with cars and pedestrians, and with distracted or hurried drivers, the chances of accidents multiply. Pedestrians may find themselves crossing multiple lanes of traffic in these parking lots, with drivers who may not be fully aware of crosswalk locations or may be dealing with low visibility due to vehicle congestion.

3. Casino Parking and Entrances

   During the holiday season, casinos see a significant increase in foot traffic as visitors flock to enjoy entertainment, dining, and shopping. This uptick in pedestrian activity, combined with high vehicle turnover in parking areas and valet zones, raises the risk of accidents.

Enhancing Pedestrian Safety with Lighted Crosswalks

Lighted crosswalks are an effective way to increase pedestrian visibility in high-traffic areas. By integrating these crosswalks in parking structures, shopping centers, and casinos, we can create a safer environment for everyone. Here are some key benefits and considerations for implementing lighted crosswalks:

1. Enhanced Visibility for Drivers

   Lighted crosswalks use embedded LED lights that flash when pedestrians approach, alerting drivers to potential foot traffic even before they reach the crosswalk. This feature is crucial in dimly lit areas such as parking garages, where traditional crosswalk markings are often difficult to see, particularly in poor weather or during nighttime hours.

2. Increased Awareness for Pedestrians

   Lighted crosswalks can also help pedestrians recognize designated safe crossing areas, encouraging them to use these instead of crossing at random points. This is particularly useful in sprawling shopping mall parking lots or corporate campuses, where crosswalks may not be as obvious.

3. Seasonal Safety for High-Traffic Periods

   During the holiday season, when pedestrian and vehicle traffic spikes, lighted crosswalks can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. When activated, these lights serve as a visual cue for both drivers and pedestrians to exercise caution. 

4. Reduction in Accident Rates

   Studies have shown that illuminated crosswalks in high-risk areas can decrease pedestrian accidents by as much as 30%. Their effectiveness is particularly pronounced in low-visibility settings, making them ideal for parking structures and corporate campuses with long, dark stretches of road between buildings.

Implementing Lighted Crosswalks: Practical Steps for Cities, Municipalities, and Property Managers

To maximize pedestrian safety, property managers of shopping malls, parking structures, should consider the following steps when planning for lighted crosswalk installations:

1. Conduct a Site Assessment

   Identify high-traffic pedestrian zones, areas with limited visibility, and places where vehicles and pedestrians are likely to intersect. These spots are prime candidates for lighted crosswalks.

2. Integrate with Existing Infrastructure

   Lighted crosswalks can be installed on top of existing crosswalk markings, reducing the need for major structural changes. They are also compatible with motion sensors, enabling them to illuminate only when pedestrians are present.

3. Consider Solar-Powered Options

   For outdoor areas, solar-powered crosswalk lighting is a sustainable, cost-effective option. These lights can operate independently of traditional power sources, making them easier to install in large parking lots and corporate campuses.

4. Raise Awareness Among Employees and Patrons

   Informing people about the presence of lighted crosswalks can help increase their usage. This can be achieved through visible signage, announcements, and notifications on corporate or mall apps.

Additional Safety Tips for the Holiday Season

In addition to lighted crosswalks, here are a few other measures that can improve pedestrian safety during the holiday season:

• Increased Security Presence: Having security or traffic control personnel in parking structures and at busy crosswalks can help manage the flow of traffic, especially during peak shopping hours.

• Encourage Pedestrian Awareness: Through signage or announcements, remind pedestrians to stay alert, avoid using cell phones, and follow designated crosswalks.

• Traffic-Calming Measures: Install speed bumps, stop signs, and pedestrian-focused signage to encourage slower driving in high-risk areas.

• Regular Maintenance: Ensure that existing crosswalk lights and signage are well-maintained and visible. Replace any worn or faded paint, and check that all lighting is operational.

Final Thoughts

As retail centers, parking structures, and casinos prepare for the holiday season, a proactive approach to pedestrian safety is essential. Lighted crosswalks offer an affordable, effective, and scalable solution to protect pedestrians from accidents in these high-traffic zones. By increasing visibility, reducing speed, and promoting awareness, businesses and property managers can create safer environments that benefit drivers, shoppers, and employees alike.

Contact us today to explore our complete line of lighted crosswalk solutions, from in-roadway warning lights and flashing pedestrian signs, to radar, motions sensors and rectangular rapid flashing beacons, LightGuard Systems has a solution for every pedestrian safety need.