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Bicycles/Pedestrians

Safety Toolbox: Engineering


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Bicycle detection



   
When a bicyclist approaches an intersection, there are several means of detecting and facilitating his or her movements. Most of the innovations are passive detection devices such as loop detectors and infrared or video detection systems. A bicycle stencil informs bicyclists that their bicycles actuate the signal. Other detection devices are active, such as the bicycle push-button, which is similar to that used by pedestrians.
objective  To accommodate the crossing needs of bicyclists at signalized intersections.
applications For use at signalized intersections. Detection methods are selected based on a jurisdiction's budget, infrastructure, and preference.
target population All Bicyclists
crash type Unsafe Starting or Backing, Auto R/W Violation, Improper Passing, Traffic Signals and Signs
advantages
  • Improves efficiency, decreases bicycle delay, and thus discourages red light running by cyclists.
  • Helps to protect the cyclist at an intersection, which may improve real and perceived safety at high conflict areas.
disadvantages
  • The equipment may not be capable of detecting all types of bicycles
  • Loop detectors are ineffective if cyclists don't know where to position themselves.
  • Weather conditions such as thick fog and blinding sunlight may reduce the effectiveness of the camera.
  • Infrared detection may have trouble detecting smaller objects, including young children, or young children on bicycles.
  • When using loop detectors, inconsistency in placement, presence of stencil, etc. may produce confusion and frustration for cyclists. 
pointers Consistently-placed loop detectors with stencils are currently the most reliable technology for bicycle detection.
cost Varies, dependent on existing equipment, design and detection mode.
responsibility Public Works Department
further reading

Traffic Advisory Leaflet 1/99: Monitoring Local Cycle Use; TRL Report 395: Guidance on Monitoring Local Cycle Use. P. D. Emmerson, A. Pedlar, and D. G. Davies, 1999; TRL Report 396: Research on Monitoring Cycle Use.  P. D. Emmerson, A. Pedlar, and D. G. Davies, 1999.

Minnesota Department of Transportation Office of Advanced Transportation Systems. Bicycle and Pedestrian Detection, Draft Evaluation Test Plan. Federal Highway Administration, March 2001.

City of San Diego. Traffic Signal Bicycle Detection Study – Final Report. 1985. 

Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority. VTA Bicycle Technical Guidelines. September 1999.
examples City of San Luis Obispo, Department of Public Works; City of Berkeley, Office of Transportation; City of Madison WI, City Traffic Engineering Division; City of Menlo Park, Transportation Division; Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority, Congestion Management Program
related tools Bicycle Signals, Educational Signs for Bicycle Detectors, Pavement Markings for Bicyclists

Index: alphabetical / cost / crash type / target population

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