Yes, the flashing hand (countdown or not) has always been a warning that the light's about to change (like a yellow light for cars). Before the countdown clock

Yes, the flashing hand (countdown or not) has always been a warning that the light's about to change (like a yellow light for cars). Before the countdown clocks, it was meant to say "don't start crossing" but in most cities people didn't interpret it that way and would start crossing if they were fast walkers. Even if they didn't know how much longer it'd be flashing. The countdown clocks add that information so they can make an informed decision. I agree that LA shouldn't have bothered with the countdowns if they're going to consider starting across the intersection after the countdown has begun to be jaywalking.