%0 Journal Article
%T Accommodating Pedestrians with Visual Impairments In and Around Work Zones
%J Transportation research record
%D 2009
%A Ullman, Brooke R.
%A Trout, Nada D.
%V 2140
%N 
%P 96-102
%X Results are presented of a Texas Transportation Institute study that assessed how work-zone information can be related to visually impaired users through audio messages. Researchers conducted a two-phase study that included both a laboratory survey and a field test of audio messages presented through motion-activated recordings in a mock work zone. A few of the key points found during this effort are as follows: (a) it is critical that an alternate-route message clearly state that the path will lead the pedestrian to the sidewalk on the opposite side of the street; (b) critical message elements for navigation of alternate routes were the initial turning or crossing instruction and the distance that pedestrians would need to continue on that path; (c) the existence of a high number of driveways can affect the ability of the visually impaired to count the number of blocks they have traveled and should be considered when alternate routes are established; (d) overload of information is still a concern, but there are specific message elements or terms that appear to have a greater adverse impact on recall (e.g., the use of distances in feet) than the typical message loading considerations; and (e) when it is important to provide warning messages about features for the visually impaired walking through or near a work area, it is critical to state clearly that the path is available (i.e., "sidewalk is open").<p />
%G en
%I SAGE Publishing
%@ 0361-1981
%U http://dx.doi.org/10.3141/2140-10