What are they?
 Pedestrian signals are used at busy intersections where traffic signals directing motorists do not meet the needs of pedestrians.
Understanding Pedestrian Signals
A WALK or a walking pedestrian symbol means you may begin crossing. A pedestrian facing this signal may proceed across the roadway in the direction of the signal and while so proceeding has the right-of-way over all vehicles. A street crossing should only begin on a WALK signal.
A flashing DON'T WALK or a flashing upraised hand symbol means it is too late to begin crossing. Do not enter the street but finish crossing if you have already started. There is enough time included in the flashing DON'T WALK to complete your crossing. A pedestrian proceeding across the roadway when the signal starts flashing should continue crossing and has the right-of-way for that purpose over all vehicles. A pedestrian should not start to cross on this signal.
A steady DON'T WALK or a steady upraised hand symbol means it is too late to begin crossing. Do not enter the street but finish crossing if you have already started. A pedestrian facing this signal shall not commence to cross the roadway in the direction of the signal until a WALK or a walking pedestrian symbol is shown.
Pedestrian Countdown Signals may be used in conjunction with  conventional pedestrian signals to display the amount of time remaining to cross the street. The countdown timer starts at the beginning of the flashing DON'T WALK phase and continues counting down the seconds of time remaining until the solid DON'T WALK symbol appears.
What are the issues?
- Some people are confused about what pedestrian control signals mean. A common complaint is that the DON'T WALK signal starts to flash before pedestrians are able to get all the way across the street.
- The flashing DON'T WALK display is intended to warn pedestrians not to step off the curb to start crossing the street. Pedestrians already in the crosswalk have ample time to complete their crossing at a normal pace before opposing traffic gets a green light.
- The flashing DON'T WALK signal performs a function similar to an amber light: it provides a clearance interval and a measure of warning that the lights are about to change.
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