Pedestrian Safety Action Plan Bicycle Safety Action Plan

Transcription

1 Pedestrian Safety Action Plan Bicycle Safety Action Plan January 24, 2017

2 VISION: Safe travel for all MISSION STATEMENT: Partner with the community to plan and fund transportation projects and programs that provide safe, reliable travel for all users. CORE VALUES: Safe and reliable transportation should be available to all regardless of their age, ability or social status. The efficient movement of goods and services is an essential part of our economy. Transportation is a part of the fabric of our community. Transportation projects and services should support vibrant communities and our vision for the future. The best plans come from community collaboration. Leveraged resources go farther. Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Action Plans 1

3 Introduction The Polk Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) engaged the services of Sprinkle Consulting and AECOM to prepare a Pedestrian Safety Action Plan and a Bicycle Safety Action Plan for Polk County. These stand-alone plans, completed in 2016, are intended to complement each other and further the TPO s goal of safe travel for all. These plans document the need for improved pedestrian and bicycle safety. They include comprehensive analyses of pedestrian and bicycle crashes with a review of where, when and how crashes occur. The plans identify high crash areas within Polk County and the most common types of crashes. The high crash areas, or corridors, are then prioritized for more detailed analysis as part of roadway safety audits. The plans propose engineering (physical improvements), education and law enforcement strategies to reduce the number and severity of pedestrian and bicycle crashes. These strategies reflect best practices and address the types of crashes most common to Polk County. This overview highlights the following from the respective plans: The Challenge History of Crashes A Typical Pedestrian or Bicycle Crash More Specifics High Crash Corridors Most Common Crash Types The Proposed Solutions Countermeasures to Prevent and Reduce Crashes 3 E s - Engineering, Education and Enforcement Strategies Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Action Plans 2

4 Pedestrian Safety Action Plan Crash History: Over this ten-year period, more than 1,500 people were injured in pedestrian crashes in Polk County. More than 140 pedestrians died as a result of traffic crashes. The number of these crashes, injuries and fatalities is increasing. In 2015 alone, more than 9,600 pedestrian crashes occurred in the state of Florida, with 144 occurring in Polk County. When the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) created the Florida Pedestrian and Bicycle Strategic Safety Plan in 2013, Polk County was identified as one of the top ten highest priority counties in the state. Year Severe Injuries Fatalities Total Fatalities Between 2006 and 2015, 142 pedestrians died as a result of traffic crashes. Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Action Plans 3

5 "The Challenge" Three-Year Review of Crash Data The project consultant analyzed three years of crash data (December November 2014). This included a detailed review of 545 pedestrian crash reports. Typical Pedestrian Crash What would a typical Polk County pedestrian crash look like? A typical pedestrian crash type would involve a pedestrian walking along a roadway being hit from behind. (163 crashes) on a dry roadway (489) in clear (452), daylight conditions (297). It involves a male (306) years of age (66). This crash is most likely to occur in the fall, September to November (168) on a weekday (407) during the evening, 6-9 pm (130). Most Common Crash Type Walking along Roadway 21% 27% Fatal or Incapacitating Approximately 27% of pedestrian crashes resulted in a fatal or incapacitating injury. Daylight Hours The majority of pedestrian crashes occurred during daylight hours, correlating with increased motor vehicle and pedestrian traffic volumes. Non-daylight Hours 67% of Fatal Crashes Of the 155 crashes occurring between 8 pm and 6 am, 65 (42%) resulted in either fatal or incapacitating injuries. Of the 49 fatal crashes, 33 (67%) occurred during non-daylight hours. Month with Most Crashes November The most common type of crash for the subject period was Walking Along Roadway (21%). Most of the pedestrians were hit from behind. Weather Conditions 83% under Clear Conditions Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Action Plans 4

6 High Crash Corridors "More Details" The project consultant analyzed five years ( ) of pedestrian and bicycle crash data to identify high crash corridors. Crash frequency and severity, proximity to schools and lighting conditions were analyzed to identify 34 high priority corridors. Of these corridors, ten were identified as the top priorities for pedestrian safety improvements. These corridors are the first recommended for further study as part of a Roadway Safety Audit program. The TPO plans to conduct a minimum of two safety audits annually in conjunction with its local government partners. A Roadway Safety Audit is detailed review of crash data and field conditions (the corridor is literally walked and biked) to identify short and long-term safety improvements. The audit team consists of planners, engineers and safety professionals from state and local governments. 34 High Crash Corridors 34 roadway segments were identified as "high crash" corridors for pedestrian and bicycle crashes. Top 10 High Priority Corridors for Pedestrian Safety Cypress Gardens Boulevard (From 3rd Street SW to 9th Street SE) US 98 (From Gibsonia-Galloway Road to W Socrum Loop Road) S Wabash Avenue (Ariana Street to Cochran Street) SR 37 (N Florida Avenue) (From W. Brannen Road to Polk Parkway) US 17 (S. Charleston Avenue) (From 9th Street SE to US 98 (Broadway Street) SR 37 (N Florida Avenue) (From Ariana Street to Main Street) SR 33 (N Massachusetts Avenue) (From US 98 to Plum Street) N Combee Road (From Hardin Combee Road to Idlewild Street) Old Dixie Highway (From Auburndale Highway to Saddle Creek Road) E Memorial Boulevard (From E Lake Parker Drive to Old Dixie Highway) Share of Fatal and Severe Crashes 32% - Pedestrian 37% - Bicycle 32% of fatal and severe pedestrian crashes occurred within these 34 high crash corridors. The share of fatal and severe bicycle crashes was 37%. 15% 15% of fatal and severe pedestrian crashes occurred within the top 10 high priority corridors for pedestrian safety. Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Action Plans 5

7 Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Action Plans 6

8 Most Common Crash Types Three years of crash reports (December November 2014) were analyzed to determine the actual types of pedestrian crashes that were occurring. Two types of crashes account for 1/3 of all pedestrian crashes in Polk County: Walking along Roadway crashes and Pedestrian Dash/Dart Out crashes. 1/3 of All Crashes Walking Along Roadway Dash/Dart-Out Dash/Dart-Out (12%) Dart-Out The pedestrian ran into the roadway and was struck by a motorist. Dash The pedestrian walked or ran into the roadway and was struck by a motorist who noticed the pedestrian just before the crash. Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Action Plans 7

9 Walking Along the Roadway (19%) Walking Along Roadway - Against Traffic - From Behind The pedestrian was struck from behind while walking along the roadway against traffic. Walking Along Roadway - Against Traffic - From Front The pedestrian was struck from the front while walking along the roadway against traffic. Walking Along Roadway - With Traffic - From Behind The pedestrian was struck from behind while walking along the roadway with traffic. Walking Along Roadway - With Traffic - From Front The pedestrian was struck from the front while walking along the roadway with traffic. Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Action Plans 8

10 The Proposed Solutions Countermeasures to Prevent and Reduce Crashes The Pedestrian Safety Action Plan includes a series of recommended countermeasures that are intended to improve pedestrian safety. These safety strategies, reflect best practices, and in some cases, they are specifically designed to address the most common types of pedestrian crashes. The countermeasures include engineering (physical improvements), education and law enforcement actions. These strategies are intended to reduce the number and severity of crashes. 3 E's Engineering Education Enforcement Engineering Maximize Continuity Ensure pedestrians have safe and comfortable facilities for the length of their trip. Work to eliminate gaps in the Polk County pedestrian network. Conduct Pedestrian Roadway Safety Audits Review roadways with a high number of pedestrian crashes to identify corridor-specific crash reduction measures. Assemble a team to review crash data and field conditions (walk the corridor) to identify short- and long-term safety improvements. Conduct a minimum of two safety audits annually. Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Action Plans 9

11 Improve Lighting Review street lighting to ensure it meets appropriate design values. To provide for safe pedestrian travel, street lighting must illuminate the roadway, shoulders and sidewalk areas. Provide Complete Streets Implement complete street policies to ensure that roadways and new developments accommodate all users of the transportation system. Education Program Messaging Focus on three messages towards motorists: 1. Be aware of pedestrians while driving 2. Yield to pedestrians at intersections or other crosswalks 3. Remember to look for pedestrians when turning right on red Focus on three messages towards pedestrians: 1. Wear proper attire to be visible at night 2. Understand the stopping distance required for motor vehicles 3. Follow the rules of the road General Education Education should include general safety efforts and targeted efforts aimed at specific behaviors. A broad safety campaign should include school-based safety programs, community safety programs, public service announcements, brochures and posters. Media Involvement Produce non-traditional public service announcements that capture the attention of motorists and pedestrians. Prepare "Street Smarts" media kits that provide news outlets with background information on current crash trends and safety strategies. This informational text can accompany a news report on a pedestrian crash (intended to be easily read by a news anchor) Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Action Plans 10

12 In-School Education Programs designed for before or after school can reduce the effort required by overburdened teachers. Elementary - "Walking to School" drills can teach young students basic facts and practices about walking safely to and from school. Branded school planners can include a page with simple safety tips for walking safely to school. Middle School - Give students a current events assignment in which they must find a recent story about pedestrian crash and report on what contributed to the crash and how it could have been avoided. Enforcement Target High Priority Corridors Station officers along corridors that have experienced high frequencies of nonmotorized crashes in recent years. Issue warnings and educational material to motorists and pedestrians exhibiting unsafe behavior. Create and display campaign posters in cafeterias that have a simple, engaging message, e.g., how difficult it can be to see a pedestrian at night. Miscellaneous Brightly colored T-shirts could be printed and distributed at soup kitchens, shelters, YMCAs, or other places for residents who need safer, bright-colored clothing to improve their visibility amongst motorists. Pursue a partnership with a dollar store franchise to display pedestrian safety information as well as to promote the sale of reflective accessories for $1 or less. Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Action Plans 11

13 Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Action Plans 12

14 Bicycle Safety Action Plan Crash History: Over the last ten years, 900 people have been injured in bicycle crashes in Polk County. In the same period, more than 30 bicyclists have died as a result of traffic crashes. The number of these crashes, injuries and fatalities is increasing. In 2014 alone, more than 5,000 bicycle crashes occurred in the state of Florida, with 122 occurring in Polk County. When the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) created the Florida Pedestrian and Bicycle Strategic Safety Plan in 2013, Polk County was identified as one of the top ten highest priority counties in the state. Year Severe Injuries Fatalities Total Fatalities Between 2006 and 2015, 33 bicyclists died as a result of traffic crashes. Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Action Plans 13

15 "The Challenge" Three-Year Review of Crash Data The project consultant analyzed three years of crash data (December November 2014). This included a detailed review of 304 bicycle crash reports. Typical Bicycle Crash What would a typical Polk County bicycle crash look like? A typical bicycle crash type would be categorized as Motorist Failed to Yield-Motorist Drive Out-Sign Controlled Intersection (51) on a dry roadway (288) in clear (253), daylight conditions (212). It involved a male (234) years of age (41). This crash is most likely to occur in the late summer, August to October (93), on a weekday (242) during the later afternoon/early evening, 3-6pm (86). Most Common Crash Type Motorist Failed to Yield Sign Controlled Intersection 18% 12% Fatal or Incapacitating Approximately 12% of bicycle crashes resulted in a fatal or incapacitating injury. Daylight Hours 70% of Crashes The majority of bicycle crashes occurred during daylight hours (70%), correlating with increased motor vehicle and bicycle traffic volumes. Non-daylight Hours 51% of Fatal or Severe Crashes Dark-Lighted and Dark-Not-Lighted conditions generally resulted in a higher percentage of fatal and incapacitating injuries (51%). Month with Most Crashes October The most common type of crash for the subject period was caused by a motorist failing to yield at a sign controlled intersection. Weather Conditions 83% under Clear Conditions Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Action Plans 14

16 High Crash Corridors "More Details" The project consultant analyzed five years ( ) of pedestrian and bicycle crash data to identify high crash corridors. Crash frequency and severity, proximity to schools and lighting conditions were analyzed to identify 34 high priority corridors. Of these corridors, ten were identified as the top priorities for pedestrian safety improvements. These corridors are the first recommended for further study as part of a Roadway Safety Audit program. The TPO plans to conduct a minimum of two safety audits annually in conjunction with its local government partners. A Roadway Safety Audit is detailed review of crash data and field conditions (the corridor is literally walked and biked) to identify short and long-term safety improvements. The audit team consists of planners, engineers and safety professionals from state and local governments. 34 High Crash Corridors 34 roadway segments were identified as "high crash" corridors for pedestrian and bicycle crashes. Share of Fatal and Severe Crashes 32% - Pedestrian 37% - Bicycle Top 10 High Priority Corridors for Bicycle Safety E. Memorial Boulevard (From E. Lake Parker Drive to Old Dixie Highway) Country Club Road (From Walnut Road to Divot Lane) SR 37 (N. Florida Avenue) (From Ariana Street to Main Street) SR 655 (Recker Highway) (From S. Lake Shipp Drive to Orangewood Avenue SW) US 98 (From Gibsonia-Galloway Road to W. Socrum Loop Road) Auburndale Highway (From Old Dixie Highway to Jerico Road) E. Memorial Boulevard (From Kathleen Boulevard to E. Lake Parker Drive) E. Main Street (CR 542/K-Ville Avenue) (From Reynolds Road to Cardinal Street) Havendale Boulevard (From US 92 (Magnolia Avenue) to US 17 (8th Street NW/Lake Alfred Road)) Kathleen Boulevard (From W. Campbell Road to W. Socrum Loop Road) 32% of fatal and severe pedestrian crashes occurred within these 34 high crash corridors. The share of fatal and severe bicycle crashes was 37%. Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Action Plans 15

17 Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Action Plans 16

18 Most Common Crash Types Three years of bicycle crash reports were analyzed to determine the actual types of bicycle crashes that were occurring. Three types of crashes account for 40% of all bicycle crashes in Polk County: Motorist Failed to Yield at Signal Controlled Intersections (18%), Motorist Failed to Yield at Signalized Intersections (5%) crashes and Motorist Overtaking Bicyclist (17%) crashes. This finding makes Polk County unusual in that it suggests that, more than in other areas around the state and country, motorists behaviors may be most responsible for the plurality of bicycle crashes. 40% of All Crashes Motorist Failed to Yield - Sign Controlled Intersection Motorist Failed to Yield - Signalized Intersection Motorist Overtaking Bicyclist Motorist Failed to Yield - Sign Controlled Intersection (18%) Motorist Drive Out-Sign-Controlled Intersection A motorist stopped at a sign-controlled intersection, and then drove into the path of a bicyclist. Motorist Drive Through-Sign-Controlled Intersection A motorist violated the sign, and drove into the path of a bicyclist. Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Action Plans 17

19 Motorist Failed to Yield - Signalized Intersection (5%) Motorist Drive Out-Right Turn on Red A motorist is stopped at a red signal, and then drove into the path of a bicyclist while attempting to make a right turn. Motorist Drive Out-Signalized Intersection A motorist is stopped at a red signal, and then drove into the path of the bicyclist. Motorist Drive Through-Signalized Intersection A motorist violated the signal and drove into the path of a bicyclist. Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Action Plans 18

20 Motorist Overtaking Bicyclist (17%) Motorist Overtaking-Bicyclist Swerved A bicyclist swerved into the path of a passing motorist. Motorist Overtaking-Misjudged Space A motorist struck a bicyclist due to misjudging the space while passing. Motorist Overtaking-Other/Unknown A motorist struck a bicyclist while passing due to other or unknown conditions. Motorist Overtaking-Undetected Bicyclist A motorist was passing a bicyclist and failed to detect the bicyclist. Strategic Plan for Customer Service 19 May 2016

21 The Proposed Solutions Countermeasures to Prevent and Reduce Crashes The Bicycle Safety Action Plan includes a series of recommended countermeasures that are intended to improve pedestrian safety. These safety strategies, reflect best practices, and in some cases, they are specifically designed to address the most common types of bicycle crashes. The countermeasures include engineering (physical improvements), education and law enforcement actions. These strategies are intended to reduce the number and severity of crashes. 3 E's Engineering Education Enforcement Engineering Maximize Continuity Ensure cyclists have safe and comfortable facilities for the length of their trips. Provide bike lanes, paved shoulders and separated bikeways where preferable and appropriately designed. Conduct Bicycle Roadway Safety Audits Review roadways with a high number of bicycle crashes to identify corridor-specific crash reduction measures. Assemble a team to review crash data and field conditions (walk the corridor) to identify short- and long-term safety improvements. Conduct a minimum of two safety audits annually. Strategic Plan for Customer Service 20 May 2016

22 Improve Lighting Review street lighting to ensure it meets appropriate design values. To provide for safe bicycle travel, street lighting must illuminate the roadway, shoulders and sidewalk areas. Provide Complete Streets Implement complete street policies to ensure that roadways and new developments accommodate all users of the transportation system. Education Program Messaging Focus on three messages towards motorists: 1. Be aware of bicyclists while driving 2. Yield to bicyclists when appropriate 3. Look for bicyclists when entering a roadway from a collector road or driveway Focus on three messages towards bicyclists: 1. Proper attire and lighting is needed to be visible at night 2. Bicyclists are legally considered to be 'operating a vehicles' - need to follow the rules of the road 3. Obey traffic signals General Education Education should include general safety efforts and targeted efforts aimed at specific behaviors. A broad safety campaign should include school-based safety programs, community safety programs, public service announcements, brochures and posters. Media Involvement Produce non-traditional public service announcements that capture the attention of motorists and pedestrians. Prepare "Street Smarts" media kits that provide news outlets with background information on current crash trends and safety strategies. This informational text can accompany a news report on a bicycle crash (intended to be easily read by a news anchor) Strategic Plan for Customer Service 21 May 2016

23 In-School Education Programs designed for before or after school can reduce the effort required by overburdened teachers. Elementary - "Biking to School" drills can teach young students basic facts and practices about biking safely to and from school. "Bike Rodeos" are an excellent method of instilling safe bicycling practices. Middle School - Give students a current events assignment in which they must find a recent story about bicycle crash and report on what contributed to the crash and how it could have been avoided. Enforcement Target High Priority Corridors Station officers along corridors that have experienced high frequencies of nonmotorized crashes in recent years. Issue warnings and educational material to motorists and bicyclists exhibiting unsafe behavior. Create and display campaign posters in cafeterias that have a simple, engaging message, e.g., how difficult it can be to see a bicyclist at night. Miscellaneous Brightly colored T-shirts could be printed and distributed at soup kitchens, shelters, YMCAs, or other places for residents who need safer, bright-colored clothing to improve their visibility amongst motorists. Pursue a partnership with a dollar store franchise to display bicycle safety information as well as to promote the sale of reflective accessories for $1 or less. Strategic Plan for Customer Service 22 May 2016

24