Zheng Wenzhi (focus.cnhubei.com):

The strong visual impact from 3D zebra crossings does remind vehicles to slow down in front of the stripes and encourages pedestrians to use zebra crossings. However, more and more people complain that 3D zebra crossings distract their attention, and sometimes they even feel they are seeing an illusion. Therefore, 3D zebra crossings should not be built everywhere in a rush, given the increasing number of cars on the roads and the quicker and quicker pace of pedestrians.

As a traffic sign, zebra stripes at crossings mean to ensure pedestrians’ safety, and thus there are clear regulations on how zebra crossings should be drawn. The Ministry of Transportation has strict standards on the width, length and intervals of the zebra crossings. Therefore, no reckless so-called “innovations” are allowed.

Besides, it’s undeniable that 3D zebra crossings are likely to distract pedestrians and drivers. When a driver approaches a 3D zebra crossing and suddenly finds an object on the road immediately ahead, he or she tends to come to a screeching halt. Moreover, it is possible that drivers who are distracted by three-dimensional objects on the road surface may neglect nearby pedestrians.

Another problem is, at first, 3D zebra crossings may deter drivers and pedestrians, but gradually, people will get used to these stripes and the deterrence will disappear. By then, old regulation-breaching behaviors will come back.

The key to ensuring pedestrians’ safety at zebra crossings is not to use 3D stripes or other kinds of innovation, but to strengthen both drivers’ and pedestrians’ sense of safety.

Installing traffic signs is a serious issue. It’s not a game that can include commercial