LIGHTGUARD’s TraxAlert™ ‘Lights Up’ RR Grade Crossing in Elk City, OK in USDOT Study

websitebuilder • September 18, 2017

RR Grade Crossing in Elk City — Santa Rosa, CA — Lightguard Systems

A demonstration was held with representatives from several agencies, including Volpe National Research Center, Farmrails, City of Elk City and the ODOT on September 18, 2017. This illuminating event commemorates the first installation and study of TraxAlert™ LED in-roadway warning lights (IRWL) used at a RR Grade Crossing in the state of Oklahoma. Funded by the USDOT Volpe National Research Center, the study will evaluate traffic behavior and motorist stopping yield rates before and after the IRWL installation. Results will be available in early 2018.

About TraxAlert™

TraxAlert™ is an in-pavement LED warning light signaling system designed for Rail Grade crossing safety. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, 240,528 at-grade highway-rail crossings exist in the United States. Even with gates and signal lights, nearly 50% of vehicle-train collisions occur at crossings, creating the need for a more effective active traffic warning device. TraxAlert’s red and amber LED in-roadway warning lights (IRWL) are embedded into and across the roadway, creating two LED flashing warning lines in front of the railroad tracks. The amber IRWLs are located at the stop bar line and define where motorists should stop. The IRWL lights flash automatically, activated by the approaching train. First the red IRWL flash in a quick strobe pattern, then remain on until the train clears the track crossing zone. The amber lights continually flash for the duration of the train’s crossing.

Pavement LED Warning Light — Santa Rosa, CA — Lightguard Systems

About LightGuard Systems®


For twenty-five years, LightGuard Systems’—pioneers in traffic safety and inventors of lighted crosswalk systems—has helped cities, municipalities, schools, traffic safety and transportation engineers build safer crossing environments for pedestrians, students, employees, the elderly and disabled. Customers choose LightGuard for its easy-to-install, robust, reliable and cutting-edge-technology systems, better pedestrian safety outcomes, and a safer, more effective public safety traffic calming method. In a study conducted by Whitlock & Weinberger Transportation Inc., April 1998, LightGuard’s systems increased driver yield rates to pedestrians from 20 percent to 95 percent in the evening.

LightGuard’s products can be customized to fit any uncontrolled marked crosswalks, crosswalks marked with pedestrian, school or trail crossing signs, at locations such as:


  • Urban mid-block crosswalks
  • School zones
  • Intersections with through lanes on major legs
  • Multi-lane crosswalks
  • Greenways
  • Trail crossings
  • Public parking garages
  • Corporate campuses
  • Rail Grade Crossings


LightGuard’s solutions include:


  • Lighted safety systems for crosswalk and pedestrian crossings
  • Automatic activation and manual push button devices that trigger a lighted crosswalk warning system’s blinking lights
  • System controllers, data collection, storage and management devices
  • Flashing LED pedestrian, stop, yield, school zone and other signs
  • Flashing LED Sign and Rapid Rectangular Flashing Beacon (RRFB) systems

History of Smart Crosswalk™


In 1991, LightGuard’s President, Michael Harrison conceived the idea of a pedestrian crosswalk warning system after a close friend was involved in a fatal crosswalk crash. After several years of research and development, the first ever lighted crosswalk system was created. In 1999, LightGuard presented its technology to the Federal MUTCD Marker and Signals Committees, recommending amendments to the existing MUTCD manual. After both committees approved the recommendations, the FHWA made the final decision on the language and inclusion of in-roadway warning lights at crosswalks into the Millennium Edition of the Federal MUTCD. (See: MUTCD Section 4N). LightGuard Systems® in-roadway warning lights (AKA lighted crosswalks), are now a recognized traffic calming standard in the U.S. LightGuard Systems holds multiple design and utility patents and is based in Santa Rosa, California.

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St. Patrick’s Day is a time for celebration—parades, parties, and plenty of festive cheer. However, with the excitement comes increased traffic, crowds, and a higher risk of unsafe driving. Whether you’re heading out for a night on the town, joining a parade, or simply enjoying the holiday, prioritizing road safety is key. Here are some essential traffic safety tips to ensure a fun and accident-free St. Patrick’s Day: 1. Plan Ahead: Designate a Driver If you plan on drinking, make sure you have a safe ride home. Impaired driving is a serious risk—not only to yourself but to everyone on the road. Arrange for a designated driver, use a rideshare service, or take public transportation. A little preparation can prevent a tragedy. 2. Be Aware of Road Closures Parades and celebrations often lead to road closures and detours. Check local traffic reports in advance to avoid unexpected delays. Knowing alternate routes ahead of time can save you from frustration and keep traffic flowing smoothly. 3. Watch for Pedestrians With large crowds and celebratory distractions, pedestrians may not always be paying attention. Always yield at crosswalks and stay extra vigilant in busy areas, especially near bars, event venues, and parade routes. 4. Stay Focused—Avoid Distracted Driving Between checking maps, responding to messages, and managing passengers, distractions can be tempting. Keep your eyes on the road and avoid using your phone while driving. A moment of distraction can lead to an accident. 5. Stay Alert for Impaired Drivers Unfortunately, drunk driving spikes on holidays like St. Patrick’s Day. If you notice a driver swerving, speeding, or behaving erratically, keep your distance and report them to authorities. Your vigilance could save lives. 6. Buckle Up—Every Trip, Every Time Seat belts save lives, no matter how short the drive. Ensure that everyone in your vehicle is buckled up before hitting the road. 7. Plan Your Parking Strategy Expect crowded parking lots and limited spots near popular events. To avoid the stress, look up parking options in advance or carpool with friends. Walking a short distance from a well-lit, secure parking area is a small trade-off for peace of mind. 8. Be Patient and Expect Delays Traffic congestion is almost guaranteed on St. Patrick’s Day. Stay calm, give yourself extra time to reach your destination, and remember that arriving safely is more important than rushing. 9. Keep Emergency Contacts Handy In case of an emergency, have local law enforcement and towing service numbers saved in your phone. Being prepared can make all the difference if something unexpected happens. Enhancing Safety with Lighted Crosswalks Installing a LightGuard Systems lighted crosswalk in your community is an effective way to reduce pedestrian and cyclist accidents. These crosswalks use in-road warning lights and flashing LED signs to alert drivers when pedestrians are crossing, improving visibility—especially in low-light conditions. By increasing driver awareness and compliance with traffic laws, lighted crosswalks make streets safer for everyone. Celebrate Responsibly—Safety Comes First St. Patrick’s Day should be fun and memorable for all the right reasons. By planning ahead, driving responsibly, and staying alert, you can help ensure a safe holiday for yourself and others. Let’s make this St. Patrick’s Day one to remember—for the fun, not the risks. Don’t rely on luck—plan ahead for safety! 🍀🚦
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