GehSignale

GehSignale, literally “walk signals” in German, are pedestrian traffic control devices designed to regulate the crossing of sidewalks and roadways. They typically consist of illuminated symbols—most commonly a walking figure to indicate permission to cross and a hand or standing figure to signal that crossing is prohibited. In modern installations, the walking figure may be animated, showing a moving silhouette to convey a timed crossing interval.

The development of GehSignale began in the early 20th century alongside the rise of motorised traffic. The first mechanical signals appeared in German cities such as Berlin and Hamburg in the 1920s, using rotating illuminated discs. After World War II, electric lamps and standardized symbols were introduced, and the current red‑hand and green‑person icons were codified in the German Road Traffic Ordinance (StVO) in 1971. Subsequent revisions have incorporated LED technology, audible signals for visually impaired users, and countdown timers that display the remaining seconds before the signal changes.

GehSignale are required at intersections where pedestrian traffic volume exceeds a threshold defined by national and regional regulations. They are also mandatory at designated “Fußgängerüberwege” (pedestrian crossings) near schools, hospitals, and public transport stops. Installation guidelines specify visibility distance, mounting height, and coordination with vehicle traffic signals to ensure safe and efficient traffic flow.

Critics have raised concerns about signal timing that may favor vehicular traffic, prompting studies that recommend adaptive timing algorithms based on real‑time pedestrian counts. Ongoing research focuses on integrating GehSignale with smart‑city infrastructure, enabling remote monitoring and dynamic adjustments to improve urban mobility for all road users.