What are the dangers of pavement parking for visually impaired people like Anna Lawson?

Pavement parking forces visually impaired individuals into roads, increasing the risk of accidents with traffic, and can cause injuries.

When will councils in England get new powers to fine pavement parkers?

The new powers for English councils to fine pavement parkers are due to take effect later this year.

How many people with sight loss have been injured by pavement parking?

According to Guide Dogs UK research, one in five people with sight loss has been injured as a result of pavement parking.

Home / Crime and Justice / Pavement Parking Ban: A New Dawn for Visually Impaired?

Pavement Parking Ban: A New Dawn for Visually Impaired?

17 Jan

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Summary

Blind individuals are forced into roads due to cars blocking pavements.
New powers will allow councils to fine motorists for pavement parking.
One in five people with sight loss have been injured by pavement parking.

Pavement Parking Ban: A New Dawn for Visually Impaired?

Visually impaired individuals are facing perilous journeys due to widespread pavement parking, which forces them into busy roads. Anna Lawson from Leeds described her daily walks to the shops as stressful, often navigating pavements blocked by cars with her guide dog, Finn. This situation is set to improve as councils across England will soon receive enhanced powers to issue fines to motorists who park inconsiderately on pavements, creating hazards for pedestrians.

The upcoming regulations are a significant step towards making local areas more accessible, particularly for people with sight loss, wheelchair users, and those with prams. Currently, pavement parking is banned in London and Scotland. However, the new nationwide measures will enable English councils to enforce restrictions on specific streets, directly addressing problematic parking. Guide Dogs UK advocates for this change, highlighting that consigning pavement parking to history would be revolutionary for accessibility.