Caroline recently joined up with Guide Dogs for the Blind and the London Cycling Campaign in their campaign to ensure that cyclists are aware of the needs of blind people, especially at pedestrian crossings.
The campaign recognises that the vast majority of cyclists are very responsible, however due to the actions of a minority of cyclists problems often face blind people when crossing the road.
The campaign's messages for cyclists are:
- Pay attention – look to see if the guide dog and owner, or person with a cane are waiting to cross. Remember that they can’t always see or hear you.
- If you see the guide dog and owner or person with a cane waiting to cross, use your bell or call out to let them know you’re there.
- If the guide dog and owner or cane user are already crossing the road, please stop and wait until they've reached the other side.
- Do not cycle up behind or around the guide dog and owner, no matter how much space you think you’ve given them. The dog may be startled and get confused.
- If you need to use the pavement for any reason, please dismount. Bumping off the kerb onto the road can scare and confuse the guide dog.