NUMIC measure: Signpost Zschopauer Straße
The measure
This sign was installed as part of the NUMIC research project. Its purpose is to avoid or shorten long waiting times for pedestrians when crossing Zschopauer Straße (as a busy road). In this respect, the sign signals to drivers in a friendly manner that it is desirable traffic behaviour to allow pedestrians to cross the road.
The reasons:
Pedestrians should be seen as road users and taken seriously. It is not only drivers who want to reach their destinations safely and smoothly, but also other road users. For this reason, it is hereby tested to put up signs on busy roads with friendly but firm appeals for mutual consideration and courtesy if, for example, a traffic light solution is not possible for traffic planning reasons. In addition to enabling pedestrians to move forward more quickly, this measure also aims to increase safety. Understanding, empathy and helpful behaviour should be evoked in drivers, as well as a basic awareness of crossings of this type.
The process:
Signs may not be placed in the street space just like that. On the one hand, there are guidelines for traffic signs, i.e. signs that comply with the StVO, and on the other hand there are regulations for advertising in public spaces. As a non-StVO-compliant sign, the information sign was not placed directly on the carriageway after consultation with the traffic authority and the traffic management and regulation departments, but one metre away, which means that it is somewhat out of sight. Likewise, it must not obstruct any safety-relevant lines of sight. The design of the sign was also agreed with these departments so that the sign does not end up becoming a safety problem instead of a safety improvement due to the distraction of motorists.
Costs:
One sign cost around 210 euros.
Realisation period:
The coordination process for the design and the installation site took around 4 weeks, with production and delivery taking a further 4 weeks.