Even with illuminated safe-to-walk signage and designated zebra crossings, it's clear that people will continue to bolt across the street in the interest of time efficiency. Don Luis embodies an uncharted strategy for reducing the number of pedestrian road accidents by expressing a little more relatable personality than the lit-up walking man stuck to the traffic light.
Daniel Ricardo Villa Balbin conceived this character, Don Luis, to point walkers in the direction of safe places to cross the street. If you happen to stumble upon his outlined image with his index finger pointing left or right, you are advised to continue along the sidewalk by that route until you discover a Don Luis giving a thumbs up. His flat contoured image extends a with a painted yellow line along the curb. This creates a visual barrier that breaks at crosswalks when he indicates it is safe to step out.
Sculptural Crossing Guards
Don Luis Discourages J-Walking in the Name of Street Safety
Trend Themes
1. Street Safety Enhancement - Opportunity for implementing innovative strategies to reduce pedestrian road accidents, such as using relatable characters like Don Luis to guide pedestrians to safe crossing locations.
2. Visual Cues for Pedestrians - Opportunity to create visual barriers and signage that help pedestrians identify safe crossings and discourage jaywalking, like the flat contoured image and painted yellow line used by Don Luis.
3. Interactive Street Art - Opportunity to leverage street art as a means to engage pedestrians and promote safety, as demonstrated by the interactive and informative nature of Don Luis.
Industry Implications
1. Public Safety - Opportunity for public safety agencies and organizations to incorporate innovative street safety enhancement strategies, like Don Luis, into their efforts to reduce pedestrian accidents.
2. Outdoor Advertising - Opportunity for outdoor advertising companies to collaborate with artists and designers to create interactive and eye-catching visuals like Don Luis that can serve both informative and promotional purposes.
3. Urban Design and Planning - Opportunity for urban planners and designers to consider incorporating street art and visually engaging elements, such as Don Luis, as part of their efforts to improve pedestrian safety and enhance the urban environment.