Final answer:
It's important to evaluate oncoming traffic speed, driver reaction time, and braking distance before deciding it's safe to cross the road. Traffic signals improve pedestrian safety by providing regulated crossing times and can reduce accident rates.
Step-by-step explanation:
The distance a pedestrian should maintain from a traffic signal, stop sign, or yield sign before crossing depends on various factors such as vehicle speed, driver reaction time, and road conditions. For instance, if a car is spotted 28 meters away (or about 8 car lengths), one must assess if it's safe to cross by considering these variables. Considering Bridget's observation that most cars take 3 seconds to cover 50 meters, we can estimate vehicles' speed. If a vehicle is moving at this speed, crossing immediately would not be safe, as 28 meters does not provide ample buffer for driver reaction and vehicle stopping distance. Pedestrian safety is a critical component of traffic regulation, especially in high-traffic areas like school zones, which often see students and faculty needing to cross the road.
In summary, you need to consider the speed of oncoming vehicles, driver reaction times, and braking distances when calculating a safe distance from which to cross the road. Traffic signals enhance safety by regulating vehicle movements, and therefore, promote safer pedestrian crossing opportunities, which is supported by their potential to reduce the incidence of traffic accidents.