Puffin pedestrian crossing accident study

Puffin facilities were developed to replace Pelican crossings at mid-block sites and farside pedestrian signals at junctions. Research has shown that compared to existing pedestrian signal facilities, Puffin facilities can reduce both driver and pedestrian delay at junctions, and improve pedestrian comfort (particularly for older pedestrians and those with impaired mobility). Previous research has also indicated safety benefits. The aim of this study was to quantify the safety benefit.

Accident data was analysed from 50 sites (40 mid-block crossings and 10 junctions) that had been converted to Puffin facilities from Pelican crossings and farside pedestrian signals at junctions. The sites had no other significant changes in layout or operation and were in general conformance with current DfT Puffin guidance.

The results of the on-street inspection are reported. Statistical analysis was undertaken by using a generalised linear model which included time trends and seasonal factors. ‘Before’ and ‘after’ conversion accident data was paired together for each site, negating any biases for particular site factors.

Mid-block Puffin crossings were shown to be safer than Pelican crossings with a mean reduction in personal injury accident frequency of 17%, statistically significant at the 5% level. The accident frequency reduction for the combined sample including junctions was 19%, statistically significant at the 5% level.