TAC Releases Research Report on Non-standard Crosswalk Pavement Markings

Wednesday, May 17, 2023

The Transportation Association of Canada (TAC) has released new research on the use and impacts of crosswalk pavement markings other than parallel white lines or zebra markings. This pooled-fund project was initiated by TAC’s Safety, Design & Operations Council, and supported financially by 20 partner organizations.

“Rainbow crosswalks” and similar decorative treatments can be seen in many Canadian communities. The new research report, Non-Standard Pavement Markings for Crosswalks by MORR Transportation Consulting with assistance from Human Factors North and NAVIGATS, addresses uncertainties about the impacts of such crosswalks on pedestrian and driver safety.

The research involved an international literature review, expert interviews, a survey of North American experience, and simulation-based testing of road user perceptions and reactions. It studied the impacts of non-standard crosswalk pavement markings on:

  • Driver perception and recognition
  • Driver and pedestrian distraction
  • Slip and skid resistance
  • Recognition by automated driving systems

Readers should note that this research report does not contain formal technical guidance on the use of non-standard crosswalk markings by Canadian jurisdictions. It does, however, provide a foundation for ongoing work by TAC to develop new technical guidance for inclusion in the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Canada (MUTCDC). The MUTCDC guides transportation professionals in the safe and effective use of road signs, traffic signals and pavement markings, and is one of TAC’s flagship publications.

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