Pedestrian deaths are at alarmingly high levels across the United States. More than 7,000 people were killed while walking in 2024, and pedestrian fatalities have surged 48% since 2014. As communities search for solutions, one traffic control device is gaining attention for its proven ability to protect people on foot: the pedestrian hybrid beacon.
What Is a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon?
A pedestrian hybrid beacon, also known as a PHB or HAWK (High intensity Activated Cross Walk), consists of two red lights above a single yellow light. Unlike regular traffic signals, these beacons stay dark until someone needs to cross.
When a pedestrian pushes the call button, the beacon activates. It displays flashing yellow, then steady yellow, followed by steady red to stop traffic. Once the pedestrian starts crossing safely, the beacon shows alternating flashing red lights. This allows drivers to proceed after stopping if pedestrians have cleared their lane. After the crossing is complete, the beacon turns off.
PHBs are typically installed at marked crosswalks on busy or high-speed roads where there isn’t enough traffic to justify a full signal but enough danger to warrant intervention.
How PHBs Help Prevent Injuries and Deaths
The data on pedestrian hybrid beacons is encouraging. Federal Highway Administration research found that PHBs can reduce pedestrian crashes by 69% and total crashes by 29%.
A study in Arizona showed drivers yielded at PHB locations 97% of the time, contributing to a 46% reduction in pedestrian-involved accidents. These beacons work particularly well on roads with three or more lanes and speeds exceeding 35 miles per hour, where pedestrians face the greatest risk.
The beacons remain dark until activated, which helps maintain driver attention. When the lights turn on, they create an unmistakable signal that demands action. This clarity removes guesswork and gives pedestrians a protected window to cross safely.
Where PHBs Are Working
The first pedestrian hybrid beacon was developed and installed in Tucson, Arizona, in 2000. Since then, cities across the country have adopted them near schools, parks, senior centers, and other high-pedestrian areas.
Beyond Arizona, PHBs have appeared in Massachusetts, New Jersey, Georgia, and many other states. Communities installing them typically see immediate improvements in driver yielding and pedestrian safety.
The Pros and Cons
Advantages:
- Significantly reduce pedestrian crashes and injuries
- Create minimal delay for vehicles since they only activate when needed
- High driver compliance rates, often exceeding 90%
- Work effectively on higher-speed roads where pedestrians face greater danger
- More affordable than full traffic signals
- Studies show that over 90% of pedestrians use the call button when needed
Challenges:
- Some drivers are initially confused
- Require education campaigns when first introduced to an area
- Less effective if pedestrians don’t activate them or cross without waiting for the walk signal
- May not be appropriate for all locations, depending on intersection type and traffic patterns
The Bigger Picture
Nearly three-quarters of pedestrian deaths occur at locations without sidewalks or proper crossing infrastructure.
PHBs address part of this crisis by creating safe crossing opportunities on dangerous roads. They work best as part of a comprehensive approach that includes better sidewalks, traffic calming measures, enforcement of dangerous driving behaviors, and public education.
Of course, PHBs can’t eliminate all accidents. Attorney J.J. Dominguez of The Dominguez Firm advises what to do if you are seriously injured in a pedestrian accident. “PHBs are a welcome attempt to curb accidents. Nonetheless, injuries and deaths remain disturbingly high. If you are seriously injured while attempting to cross the street, contact an experienced pedestrian accident attorney immediately. They can advise you of your rights and help you seek justice.”
As pedestrian deaths remain stubbornly high, proven safety measures like pedestrian hybrid beacons deserve serious consideration. The evidence shows they save lives. For communities struggling with pedestrian safety, PHBs offer a tested, effective tool that could help reverse a deadly trend.
