Improving Pedestrian Safety with Reflective Sheeting

Margaret Adams, Global Digital Communications Manager, Avery Dennison Reflective Solutions October 26, 2020

    "It is our mission to make roads safer for pedestrians around the world. From our fluorescent sign sheeting to our pre-striped ADA Barricade sheeting, our products help bring pedestrians home safely. "

Pedestrian Safety Awareness

Like so many of you, I find myself taking more walks in my neighborhood this year. October in Chicago is beautiful, so I take every chance I get to take a walk to my neighborhood park, grab a cup of coffee, or walk along the lake path. On these walks I encounter a variety of safety markers that help alert motorists to be aware of pedestrians so that we can safely share these spaces. 

Our roads are shared by motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians, so it’s critical that safety measures are taken to keep this space as safe as possible. Unfortunately, deadly crashes involving pedestrians are on the rise in the US. In 2018 6,283 pedestrians were killed in crashes; that’s a 3.4% increase in pedestrian fatalities from 2017, with the majority of those crashes happening in the dark. Because of these startling statistics, the US Department of Transportation named October Pedestrian Safety Month to raise awareness around this safety issue. Everyone is a pedestrian

It is our mission to make roads safer for pedestrians around the world. From our fluorescent sign sheeting to our pre-striped ADA Barricade sheeting, our products help bring pedestrians home safely. 

How Does Reflective Sheeting Improve Pedestrian Safety?

Fluorescent Crosswalk Signs 

The most recognizable reflective solution for pedestrian safety is the crosswalk sign. Crosswalk signs are used at intersections and crosswalks where pedestrians may be present and near school zones where you’d expect children. These signs are used to alert motorists to watch for crossing pedestrians and provide pedestrians a guide of where to safely cross the street. Fluorescent yellow or fluorescent yellow-green sheeting is chosen for its high visibility during dawn and dusk. Fluorescent sheeting makes a static sign more dynamic during all weather conditions and provides the best all-day conspicuity, utilizing sunlight to enhance the sign.

In-street Crosswalk Signs

Gaining in popularity across the US, in-street crosswalk signs bring the pedestrian awareness to the roadway level. These signs can be permanently bolted to the road or set up with a temporary base. Their durable construction with flexible sheeting allows for them to be hit while maintaining performance. To improve day-time visibility, these in-street crosswalk signs typically utilize fluorescent yellow-green sheeting.

ADA Pedestrian Barricades

To comply with the American’s with Disabilities Act (ADA), cities must provide equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities and provide access to public facilities. When there is construction, especially in urban areas, pedestrian access may be blocked. ADA Pedestrian Barricades are designed to direct pedestrians through a safe route in the construction area by creating a temporary barricaded pathway. Reflective sheeting is applied to the traffic facing side of the barricade to improve visibility of the pedestrian path.

In addition to utilizing these reflective products, it’s important that pedestrians and motorists take extra caution. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions. Learn more about Avery Dennison’s mission to create safer roadways with reflective sheeting. 

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