A pedestrian signal allows a safe way for pedestrians to cross the street at signalized intersections. The pedestrian signal, when activated, provides time for the pedestrian to enter the street on the steady "WALK" signal and finish crossing the street on the flashing "DONT WALK" signal. The pedestrian signal is activated by a pedestrian detector push-button, which causes the controller to operate a pre-programmed timed sequence of steady "WALK" and flashing "DONT WALK" indications.  Pedestrian signals may also use international symbols displaying a person walking for the "WALK" indication and a hand for the "DONT WALK" indication. The person walking is displayed in white, and the hand typically is orange.

    The pedestrian signal sequence begins when the "WALK" indication is illuminated. This sequence should be at least 4 to 7 seconds long and allow enough time to leave the curb and begin crossing the street before the clearance interval begins. At locations where large numbers of pedestrians are crossing, a longer "'WALK" interval may be warranted.

     The pedestrian clearance interval consists of a flashing "DONT WALK" indication. During this interval the pedestrian should complete the crossing. Pedestrians should not begin crossing when the "DONT WALK" is flashing. The clearance interval timing is based on the street width divided by 4 feet per second walking time. If elderly pedestrians are using the crossing it is recommended that the walk speed be reduced to 3.5 feet per second. The distance is measured across the street, from the curb on the near side to the center of the last lane on the far side of the street.

     The "DONT WALK" indication, steadily illuminated, means that a pedestrian should not enter the street in the direction of the pedestrian signal.

     The design requirements for a pedestrian signal require that a pedestrian signal be mounted at least 8 feet, but no higher than 10 feet, above the sidewalk. The pedestrian signal shall be so positioned and adjusted as to provide maximum visibility to the pedestrian. The pedestrian detector push-button is usually found on the pole under the pedestrian signal head that faces the crossing direction. A sign shall be mounted above the detector unit explaining its purpose, and the positioning of the push-button should clearly indicate which crosswalk signal is activated by each push-button.

WARNING-Both pedestrians and drivers must be particularly alert while pedestrians are crossing, especially when "Right turn on red" movements are allowed.