I enjoy taking long walks. I enjoy the fresh air and the energizing lift. Last spring while walking with a partner I became distressed over the short time period that walk lights stayed lit allowing pedestrians to cross the street.

I was residing in the Kansas city suburbs last spring. My partner and I would venture out for a walk long walk in the early mornings. It was wonderful except when we would have to cross a four lane street. Then it became unnerving. Barely would we get across two lanes when the light would change. I thought it must be a joke, the walk light is only there to appease the walker, but not really for the safety of the pedestrian or surely it would last long enough for the pedestrian to get safely across.

Last month I relocated to the beautiful of city San Diego. Enjoying the spectacular views, interesting foliage and balmy temperatures, I started on a daily trek to discover my new neighborhood on foot. Now, as a pedestrian, I not only have to cross a four lane street, instead I am crossing or attempting to cross a six lane thoroughfare.

Are Walk Lights Really Safe for Pedestrians

Is the walk light here timed any longer as a result of the greater distance to get safely across? I am shocked and disappointed to say an emphatic no. When the light changes to the white walk light, I immediately take off jogging to get as close to the other side as possible before the walk light changes and I no longer feel safe. In spite of the quickened pace, I can only get halfway to the other side.

The walk light in theory is designed with the pedestrian in mind. Reasonably the crossing of a thoroughfare should not be conjuring up dread. The impatient stares and threatening motions of automobile drivers serves only to add to my discomfort. It appears as though some drivers are using extreme restraint, as if any moment I could become road kill.

Traffic Lights Should Be Updated For Modern Thoroughfares

Have we become so fast paced and uncaring in our society that the pedestrian is no longer important? What of those who cannot manage an automobile due to poor or mental health or perhaps from age. Must they endure such discomfort every time they are in a position to have to get across a large avenue. Does the destination of the automobile driver hold more import than the safety of the pedestrian.

If I feel threatened by the impatience of the automobile drivers and the apprehension that I could get hit by a car, imagine how unnerving it could be for children or someone elderly or perhaps handicapped attempting to get across the thoroughfare when the pedestrian walk light barely gives the walker enough time to cover the distance.

Pedestrian traffic lights should allow walkers the right of way to get safely across but they do not give ample time. If they are not doing the adequate job, isn’t it about time someone takes note that change is needed. Isn’t it about time the pedestrian is given as much consideration as the automobile driver?

Have we become so fast paced and uncaring in our society that the pedestrian is no longer important? Does the destination of the automobile driver hold more import than the safety of the pedestrian. Isn’t it about time the pedestrian is given as much consideration as the automobile driver?