Pedestrian safety depends on visible traffic signage. The retroreflectivity of vertical signs is crucial for recognising crossings, especially at night or in poor weather conditions. This study evaluated the reflectivity of traffic signs at pedestrian crossings in Krško and compared the results with Slovenian and international regulatory requirements. We conducted luminance measurements on pedestrian-crossing traffic signs and found that a significant proportion of the examined signs no longer meet the minimum requirements of the new regulation, mainly due to material ageing and micro-environmental influences. Nevertheless, several crossings with a high level of safety were identified. The two crossings near the primary school standout the most, as all signage meets the retroreflectivity requirements, the lighting is adequate, and additional traffic-calming measures are installed. The least safe crossings are those that do not meet the reflectivity or lighting requirements and are further obscured by natural obstacles. An analysis of international practices confirms that most countries use retroreflectivity classes adapted to road type, ambient lighting conditions, and background complexity. The Slovenian system follows this approach, but it could be further improved by introducing a more detailed categorisation of environmental conditions and adjusting classes for more demanding traffic situations. The findings support the introduction of regular measurements and the timely replacement of inadequate signs to enhance pedestrian safety.
|
