October is transport month – a period of reflection and celebration for the transport industry. To commemorate the month, we looked at the transport issues that face people with disabilities. While access to affordable and accessible transport is still one of the biggest challenges for South Africans with disabilities, the safety of wheelchair users as pedestrians also need to be discussed.
When transport isn’t available, people are left to travel on foot (or wheel). This requires safe, accessible roads, which might include wide walkaways, clear, safe crossings and a general adherence to road rules. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. In fact, the infrastructure in most of South Africa is very lacking.
Not only does this hinder a wheelchair user’s ability to use the roads safely, but actually puts them at a higher risk of injury. A study by the Georgetown University in the United States found that pedestrian wheelchair users are a third more likely to be killed in a road accident than the general public.
There are several reasons why a wheelchair user might be at a greater risk. They might be lower to the ground (especially manual wheelchair users) and thus less visible to drivers. They might be travelling faster than their fellow pedestrians, especially when using a powered chair, thus impairing the driver’s ability to predict how quickly they will cross a road.
Another contributing factor is the lack of accessible or wide curbs and appropriate curb cuts. Wheelchair users might resort to using the tarred road, which increases their risk of injury. Considering the dangers, there are a few tips for wheelchair users to keep themselves safer when using the road:
- If you can afford it, rather book accessible transport with Uber or QASA Accessible Transport.
- Consider attaching a flag and pole, or similar tall item, to your chair to improve visibility.
- Keep in mind that vehicles might wrongly anticipate how quickly/slowly you are moving. Avoid taking chances.
- Avoid crossing the road unless you are at a traffic light.
- If possible, remain out of the road. Alternatively, wear bright or reflective clothing and avoid travelling in the dark or during peak traffic hours.
With all the services now available to deliver groceries, medication and general purchases, consider staying home and having your items delivered. If that isn’t an option, please travel safe!
