New flashing crosswalk signals banned over patent dispute

Photo credit: streets.mn

The Federal Highway Administration in Florida has banned the installation of new flashing traffic beacons in America. The device, which had grown popular among pedestrian safety advocates, is used at crosswalks across Central Florida and alerts drivers to the presence of somebody trying to cross the street. Local governments have used them since the FHA issued an interim approval of the device in 2008. It's December decision came after four patents and a pending application for the device called a rectangular rapid flashing beacon was discovered because the FHA doesn't permit the use of patented devices. However, existing beacons can remain in place. The gadgets are attached to yellow pedestrian crossing signs; the light begins to flash after a pedestrian pushes a button.

The order has caused government and transportation planners to commence the search for different tools to improve safety in a region considered among the country’s most dangerous for walkers and bicyclists.

News Source-Orlando Sentinel