The signalled pedestrian crossings here in Australia, for the most part, include an audible signal as well as the visual "Walk/Don't Walk" sign. We presume this is for blind people, but it could just as easily be a way to weed out those of us without higher-brain functions. I have come to this conclusion because we have been conditioned to start crossing the road when we hear the beeps - a Pavlovian response.
The problem comes when the same sound is heard at an intersection for a different direction, which usually means the traffic would run you over if you tried to cross then. I see many people start to take steps when they hear the signal for the wrong crossing, and I've even seen someone start on their way, then run the rest of the way across the road to avoid looking stupid. Personally, I don't think that plan was quite successful, even if he didn't get hurt in the attempt.
Mokalus of Borg
PS - The safest bet is probably to recondition yourself to cross on the combination of audio and visual signals.
PPS - Or just close your eyes and trust to luck.
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