[LeafStorm]

Flashing reds are based entirely off of how long it takes an "average" person to cross. As a relatively tall young adult, I walk much faster than the "average," so I can frequently make it across by walking even if it's been flashing red for a few seconds. Furthermore, the "Don't Walk" sign becoming solid is timed to correspond to the yellow lights appearing for the parallel traffic, so the opposing traffic won't start moving for a few seconds after the "Don't Walk" signs appear.

(Disclaimer: This is based on Raleigh, NC's traffic lights. I don't know what level this is standardized at.)

[ztrerwtr56]

Unfortunately observing lights will not always provide the correct rules, it's easier to read the rulebook.

http://peds.org/resources/pedestrian_right_of_way/

Start reading at: Pedestrian control signals

Also:

http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/dandv/driver/handbook/secti...

http://www.durham.ca/print.asp?nr=/departments/works/roads/t...