Introduction
Pedestrians using guide dogs or white canes have a legal right to travel independently in public spaces. However, it’s essential that they follow specific guidelines to ensure their safety and that of others around them. In this article, we’ll outline some of the key things that pedestrians using guide dogs or white canes must do when out and about.
Understand Their Rights
First and foremost, it’s important for pedestrians using guide dogs or white canes to understand their rights. In the United States, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that public accommodations provide full and equal access to individuals with disabilities.
This means that guide dogs and other service animals are allowed in all public areas, such as stores, restaurants, and hotels. Similarly, white canes are recognized as a symbol of blindness or visual impairment, and pedestrians using them have the right of way in many situations.
Train Their Guide Dog
If a pedestrian is using a guide dog, it’s essential that the animal is well-trained and obedient. Guide dogs undergo rigorous training to ensure that they can safely navigate obstacles and guide their handler through busy public spaces.
Handlers must be confident in their guide dog’s abilities and be able to communicate effectively with the animal. It’s also important to ensure that the guide dog is properly licensed and up-to-date on all necessary vaccinations.
Use Their White Cane Effectively
Pedestrians using white canes must also be proficient in their use. There are several techniques that can help visually impaired individuals navigate their surroundings using their white cane.
For example, the two-point touch technique involves tapping the cane on either side of the body to detect obstacles. The diagonal technique involves sweeping the cane from the top left to the bottom right to detect obstacles in front of the pedestrian.
Plan Their Route
Pedestrians using guide dogs or white canes should plan their routes in advance. This can help them avoid obstacles and navigate unfamiliar areas more easily.
There are several apps and tools available that can help visually impaired individuals plan their routes. For example, BlindSquare is a GPS navigation app that provides audio directions and information about nearby locations.
Be Aware of Their Surroundings
Pedestrians using guide dogs or white canes must also be aware of their surroundings. This means paying attention to sounds and other sensory cues to detect potential hazards.
For example, a pedestrian using a guide dog may listen for the sound of traffic to determine when it’s safe to cross the street. Similarly, a pedestrian using a white cane may use their sense of touch to detect changes in terrain or surface texture.
Communicate Effectively
Effective communication is key for pedestrians using guide dogs or white canes. They must be able to communicate their needs and preferences clearly to those around them.
For example, a pedestrian using a guide dog may need to inform a store employee that their dog is a service animal and is allowed in the store. Similarly, a pedestrian using a white cane may need to ask for assistance crossing a busy intersection.
Be Mindful of Others
Finally, pedestrians using guide dogs or white canes must be mindful of those around them. This means being respectful of others’ personal space and avoiding any actions that could potentially cause harm or discomfort.
For example, a pedestrian using a guide dog should avoid allowing their animal to block a walkway or interfere with other pedestrians. Similarly, a pedestrian using a white cane should avoid swinging it around or using it in a way that could accidentally hit someone.
Conclusion
Overall, pedestrians using guide dogs or white canes have a legal right to travel independently in public spaces. However, it’s important that they follow specific guidelines to ensure their safety and that of others around them. By understanding their rights, training their guide dog, using their white cane effectively, planning their route, being aware of their surroundings, communicating effectively, and being mindful of others, pedestrians using guide dogs or white canes can travel more confidently and safely.