Experimental Field Test of Proposed Pedestrian Safety Messages. Volume 1, Methods and Materials Development

NHTSA - Behavioral Safety Researchhttps://doi.org/10.21949/15251721983PDFResearch PaperBlomberg, Richard D.Preusser, David F.Hale, A. (Allen), 1938-Leaf, W. A.Dunlap and Associates, inc.United States. National Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationUnited States. National Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationUnited StatesPedestriansPedestrian accidentsPedestrian safetyTraffic safety educationPublic information programsEducationBehaviorField testsDOT-HS-806-521ED83-5-1NTIS-PB84211564DOT-HS-4-00952Final reportAuthor's abstract: A detailed re-analysis of available pedestrian accident data was utilized to define three sets of pedestrian safety public information and education (PI&E) messages. These messages were then produced and field tested. The objectives and theoretical background for the study are addressed in this Volume. The messages directed at child pedestrian accidents and using an animated character named "Willy Whistle" are covered in Volume II. Two sets of adult-oriented messages are the focus of Volume III. The child messages were successful in reducing pedestrian accidents in three test cities. The adult messages also yielded some positive results. It was concluded that these messages are viable pedestrian accident countermeasures. The success of these messages leads to the additional conclusion that PI&E, in general, can be an effective countermeasure modality for modifying simple behaviors if adequate exposure is obtained.129