Daily Local News (West Chester, PA)
Yield to me, it’s the law
As the weather warms up, more and more people are out walking. Unfortunately, we hear more stories of pedestrians who are struck by vehicles while attempting to cross at intersections on our local streets.
Often these accidents are labeled hit and runs. As an Orientation and Mobility (O&M) Specialist for the blind and visually impaired, all too often I witness vehicles turning directly in front of my students.
My students, young and seniors alike, who are learning to travel safely around their communities, will often say: “Why is this happening? You told me that the law states that pedestrians have the right-of-way on public streets! Elaine, I think you are the only one who knows that the law exists. So many drivers seem to have never heard of it!”
Sadly, our streets are becoming more dangerous for everyone, regardless of age, who have visual loss of any kind. Not yielding to pedestrians is a huge problem. And it’s illegal.
Pennsylvania Law 3549 clearly states that drivers must yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian who is totally or partially blind carrying a clearly visible white cane or accompanied by a guide dog.
When this law is flaunted by drivers, the consequences are often heartbreaking.
Given the reality of the situation, here are some tips for people of any age, whether or not they use a white cane, when crossing intersections:
Never assume that drivers will yield to you, even if you are using a white cane.
Assume all intersections permit right turn on red, even if a no turn on red sign is posted. Many drivers do not abide.
Analyze your crossing as best you can, including width of street, traffic control, shape of intersection and sound of traffic.
Wear bright reflective clothing.
For night travel, use a flashlight and wear reflective clothing.
If you have a white cane, use it. Here are tips for white cane users:
Extend the cane into the street to indicate your intent to cross.
Signal to potential rightturning vehicles by holding out your left arm and outward-facing palm to say, “Stop, I’m crossing.”
Swing the cane up and down vertically before stepping out into the street.
Place one foot slightly forward indicating your intent to cross.
One final suggestion: research has shown that the yield to pedestrian signs reduce the risk of accidents, and driver compliance increases by 30% to 40%. If a person with visual loss uses an intersection regularly, they should contact the local governing body to request that a sign be posted at your intersection.
About the Montgomery County Association for the Blind (MCAB): Founded in 1945, is the only local organization to provide continuous specialized services to county residents of all ages with visual impairments. MCAB’s mission is to enhance the quality of life for people coping with blindness or vision impairments through education, support and advocacy, and to strive to prevent blindness through education and screening programs. For more information, call Catherine Nold at cnold@ mcab.org or 215-661-9800, ext. 413.