Breakfast Buzz: Should there be countdown signals at red light intersections?

SASKATOON – There is talk on social media this morning about how Saskatoon should look at pedestrian countdown signals at intersections with red light cameras. However, do they actually make things safer?

Pedestrian countdown signals are popular in other cities, where instead of a flashing hand you have a countdown to tell you how long you have to cross.

The logic is that the countdown will encourage caution in drivers and pedestrians, although the opposite seems to be true. Drivers and pedestrians tend to be encouraged by the countdown to hurry through intersections. One study even saw an increase in collisions.

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READ MORE: Pedestrian signals are cause for confusion in Toronto

What do you think? Do you think Saskatoon should look into installing pedestrian countdown signals at intersections with red light cameras?

Be sure to comment with your thoughts and watch Global Saskatoon Morning News at 7:55 a.m. CT to see if we pull up your comment.