Skip to content

Memorializing Pedestrian Victims in Portugal

In Lisbon, Portugal, pedestrian advocates have replaced zebra stripes in some crosswalks with names of pedestrians killed by cars. This action seems to have at least some government support, and it did gain media attention, but what of its effectiveness as a safety tool in and of itself? 

In Lisbon, Portugal, pedestrian advocates have replaced zebra stripes in some crosswalks with names of pedestrians killed by cars. This action seems to have at least some government support, and it did gain media attention, but what of its effectiveness as a safety tool in and of itself? 

Obviously, the design speaks loud and clear to pedestrians (for better or worse, as their eyes are drawn to the road, rather than oncoming traffic). Though there is a small sign pointing out that many crash victims are not in cars, motorists passing at speed will never see the names as they drive over them — a sad, and probably unintended, metaphor.

How might memorials such as this be designed to get the attention of drivers as well? 

Video: thedlab/YouTube

Photo of Brad Aaron
Brad Aaron began writing for Streetsblog in 2007, after years as a reporter, editor, and publisher in the alternative weekly business. Brad adopted New York'’s dysfunctional traffic justice system as his primary beat for Streetsblog. He lives in Manhattan.

Streetsblog has migrated to a new comment system. New commenters can register directly in the comments section of any article. Returning commenters: your previous comments and display name have been preserved, but you'll need to reclaim your account by clicking "Forgot your password?" on the sign-in form, entering your email, and following the verification link to set a new password — this is required because passwords could not be carried over during the migration. For questions, contact tips@streetsblog.org.

More from Streetsblog New York City

Non-Profits, City Officials Put Pressure On Lawmakers To OK Gov. Hochul’s ‘Stop Super Speeders’ Effort

April 20, 2026

‘A Solution, But To What Problem?’ Experts Say AVs Are The Elephant In The Room, But There’s Still Time To Figure Out Their Role

April 20, 2026

Opinion: Don’t Design Grand Army Plaza For 2007 — Build It For The Future

April 20, 2026

AG James Won’t Charge Cop Who Ran Over And Dragged Sleeping Man in Park While Applying Makeup

April 20, 2026

Monday’s Headlines: World Cup Fuss Edition

April 20, 2026
See all posts