Citation

Scott AC, Barlow JM, Guth DA, Bentzen BL, Cunningham CM, Long R. J. Vis. Impair. Blind. 2011; 105(10): 662-674.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, American Foundation for the Blind)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This article reports on a study of five cues that could be useful to help blind pedestrians maintain accurate headings and direction as they cross a street. The study used a simulated crosswalk and tested audible beacons associated with accessible pedestrian signals (APS), remote infrared audible signage (RIAS), tactile guidestrips of raised bars that are oriented in the intended direction of travel, a variation on the guidestrip, and an underfoot bar tile. Each of the five cues were assessed over distances equivalent to crossing one lane, three lanes, and six lanes of traffic. The participants were 19 adults who were blind or who had light perception only; all were experienced cane users. In addition to objective data on crossing time and excursion outside the crosswalk, the study gathered subjective data from the participants about which cue(s) they preferred. The study results showed that three of the cues worked well over a distance equivalent to the width of a six-lane road: a beaconing APS with far-side features, a tactile guidestrip, and tactile edgestrips. These three were also rated more highly by the participants than were the other two for usefulness in providing information on both their alignment and their heading. The authors remind readers that these additional strategies may only be necessary at some crossings but may prove indispensable when other approaches (such as listening for traffic) are not appropriate.

Language: en