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.

Comments Are Temporarily Disabled

Streetsblog is in the process of migrating our commenting system. During this transition, commenting is temporarily unavailable.

Once the migration is complete, you will be able to log back in and will have full access to your comment history. We appreciate your patience and look forward to having you back in the conversation soon.

More from Streetsblog New York City

Rampant Placard Abuse is Mucking Up This Bike Lane in Downtown Brooklyn

April 13, 2026

Mamdani Is Falling Short of New York City’s Greenway Dream

April 13, 2026

Push Grows To Move Parking Enforcement From NYPD To DOT

April 13, 2026

Monday’s Headlines: A Century of Days Edition

April 13, 2026

FIRST ON STREETSBLOG: Mamdani To Fully Fund Trash Containerization

April 12, 2026
See all posts