Reducing jaywalking and distracted walking behaviour at intersections

This project aimed to better understand and reduce jaywalking and distracted walking at urban intersections, with the overarching goal of improving pedestrian safety for the Australian community. Pedestrian injuries and fatalities remain a significant public safety concern in Australia, particularly in busy urban environments where young adults form a large proportion of road users. The project addressed this issue by combining behavioural research with the design and evaluation of evidence-based, on-site safety communications.

The project first established a strong evidence base through a comprehensive review of international research on pedestrian behaviour, distraction, and non-compliance at signalised intersections. These insights informed the development of theory-driven, targeted safety messages specifically tailored to address jaywalking and distracted walking. 

Drawing on behavioural change theories and the findings from the baseline analysis, a set of on-site communication treatments was designed and concept-tested with pedestrians. Survey results demonstrated that specific message characteristics were effective in influencing attitudes and intentions related to safer crossing behaviour. These findings ensured that the final communications were both theoretically sound and responsive to community perceptions.

The communications were subsequently deployed at selected intersections and evaluated using a before-and-after study design with comparison sites. Follow-up video analysis demonstrated measurable changes in pedestrian behaviour at treatment locations, indicating reductions in jaywalking and distracted walking relative to comparison sites.

Overall, the project delivered practical, evidence-based insights into how targeted on-site communications can positively influence pedestrian behaviour in Australian urban settings. The outcomes provide transferable guidance for road safety practitioners, transport agencies and local governments, supporting safer intersections, reduced pedestrian risk, and improved public health and wellbeing across the wider Australian community.