At signalized intersections and midblock crossings, the vehicle stop line
can be moved farther back from the pedestrian crosswalk for an improved
factor of safety and for improved visibility of pedestrians. In some places,
the stop line has been moved back by 4.6 to 9.1 m (15 to 30 ft) relative
to the marked crosswalk with considerable safety benefits for pedestrians.
One study found that use of a “Stop Here For Pedestrians” sign
alone reduced conflicts between drivers and pedestrians by 67 percent. With
the addition of an advanced stop line, this type of conflict was reduced
by 90 percent compared to baseline levels.7
The advanced stop lines allow pedestrians and drivers to have a clearer
view of each other and more time in which to assess each other’s
intentions. The effectiveness of this tool depends upon whether motorists
are likely to obey the stop line, which varies from place to place.
Advanced stop lines are also applicable for non-signalized crosswalks on multi-lane roads to ensure that drivers in all lanes have a clear view of a crossing pedestrian.
