Most pedestrian crashes occur while the pedestrian is attempting to cross the road. A range of treatments can help pedestrians to cross safely, including the use of signalised pedestrian crossings.

Signalised pedestrian crossings consist of signal displays, line markings and lighting. Signalised pedestrian crossings give priority to vehicles, and pedestrians are allowed to cross only when the signals halt vehicle traffic on the through road. Signals must be timed to give pedestrians long enough to complete their crossing before the signals change to allow vehicle traffic to start passing through the crossing again.

Signalised pedestrian crossings benefit visual and mobility impaired users by ensuring stoppage of traffic.

A high volume of pedestrian traffic is needed to justify the delays to road traffic that signalised pedestrian crossings cause. Also, signalised pedestrian crossings rely on compliance with traffic signals, which is poor in some regions.

Signalised crossing can be used at midblock locations, or incorporated into existing traffic signals at intersections. Pedestrian phasing should be considered at all signalised intersections where pedestrians are likely to be present.

Signalised pedestrian crossings may incorporate a raised feature (raised crossing) designed to slow the speed of approaching vehicles.