Crosswalks are a key aspect of walkability, and they are growing more common at mid-blocks, especially in areas with a lot of foot traffic. Stats on traffic incidents at mid-blocks show the need for an effective solution to ensure all multi-modal users stay safe.

1. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), Fatality Facts 2018: Pedestrians
2. Low number: Federal Highway Administration, Effects of Yellow Rectangular Rapid-Flashing Beacons on Yielding at Multilane Uncontrolled Crosswalks, 2010.
   High number: Stapleton, Steven et al., Factors Affecting Driver Yielding Compliance at Uncontrolled Midblock Crosswalks on Low-Speed Roadways, 2017.

Supplementing crosswalk signs with an RRFB has been proven to increase safety and yield rates. This rapid flashing beacon is an improvement on the traditional crosswalk warning light because it uses high-intensity LEDs, which are exceptionally noticeable for drivers both during the day and at night. Their amber color and quick flash pattern (wig-wag + simultaneous or WW+S) make them easily visible when headlight glare, wet roads, or other situations create difficult nighttime lighting conditions. Studies have shown that the RRFBs can improve driver yield rates up to 96% and reduce crashes by 47%.

How and where to use RRFBs

RRFBs are one of the best and easiest ways to increase walkability in a community without significant infrastructure changes. Explore our free RRFB Application Guide to design the layout of your RRFBs in multiple road scenarios and learn where they are best used.

Put our solar and AC-powered RRFB to use at crosswalks

Watch our RRFB overview video to learn exactly where and how a rectangular rapid flashing beacon can be installed. Here are some highlights:

• RRFBs are ideal at urban mid-block crosswalks, unsignalized intersections, roundabouts, and more
• RRFBs can be installed on existing sign posts without the need for specialized equipment
• A solar-powered RRFB installs without costly trenching or long traffic delays
• A proper overhead lighting fixture can be combined with an RRFB for added safety at night

Are RRFBs MUTCD-compliant?

Yes. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) released Interim Approval 21 on March 20, 2018, which makes the RRFB MUTCD-compliant in the US. RRFB Interim Approval 11, the original RRFB interim approval, was rescinded in December 2017. With IA-21 now in place, state and local agencies can apply for interim approval. Read more about the FHWA memorandum.

Additional Resources for RRFBs