Negotiating pedestrian crossings is something many people take for granted – but crossing the road when you’re blind or visually impaired can feel daunting.
In this article, Sight Scotland Veterans rehabilitation officer, Katrina, discusses some of the features of pedestrian crossings that can help those with visual impairments navigate their way safely.
Many people will be very used to listening out for the sound of a pedestrian crossing for the indication it is safe to cross, however not all pedestrian crossings have this feature. An audio signal can also be of little help to pedestrians who have a hearing as well as visual impairment.
That is why many pedestrian crossings have useful hidden features to allow people who are blind or visually impaired to cross safely and independently. Tactile cones are just one of these features.
What is a tactile cone at a pedestrian crossing?
In order to assist people with dual sensory loss to cross the road safely, tactile cones that can spin have been introduced to the underside of the signal box at controlled crossings.
Located on the underside of many pedestrian crossings, you’ll find a small plastic or metal cone. The cone has tactile ridges to allow you to easily feel its spinning motion. The cone will rotate only when the green man is showing, indicating to pedestrians with a vision and hearing impairment that the traffic has been signalled to stop.
Since 2002, it has been a requirement for all ’new’ controlled crossings to have the tactile cone, regardless of whether or not they have an audible signal, to improve accessibility.
How to use a tactile cone for the first time
The next time you are at a controlled crossing, take the time to stop and feel under the signal box for the tactile cone if it has one.
Activate the crossing by pressing the button in the usual way then hold or press the cone lightly so you can feel how it changes once it is activated and feel how long it stays on for.
What if the cone device is already spinning?
If the cone is already spinning when you first touch it, wait until it stops and press the button to activate the crossing again. You may have approached it just before the lights change so it’s better to wait than risk being on the road when the traffic gets the green light again. If the cone is broken it won’t spin at all.
Also, it's important to use and trust your judgement – if the tactile cone starts spinning but you can hear a car accelerating or tyres screeching nearby, wait until you feel it is safe.
What should I do if a pedestrian crossing does not have any additional aids?
If you are unable to identify the green man and there is no audio signal or tactile cone then we recommend you wait until you hear no traffic sounds before attempting to cross the road.
Never be afraid to ask for assistance. People are generally very happy to help.
At Sight Scotland Veterans we advise the veterans we support to carry a symbol cane. This helps to notify others to the user’s sight loss. Held while waiting to cross the road, it means other pedestrians are more likely to offer assistance without being asked. It also makes drivers aware there is a chance the user may not see them approaching.
What should I do when approaching a pedestrian crossing?
1. Most crossing points should have dropped kerbs to assist people with mobility difficulties, those with prams, etc., so take some time to first identify where the dropped kerb is when you arrive at the crossing.
2. The area around many crossing points now has red or beige tactile paving. Its knobbly, raised surface can usually be felt underfoot, and is designed to help those with vision loss find the crossing point and kerb.
3. Once you have established where the drop kerb is, position yourself half a step back from this kerb and within easy reach of the signal box.
4. Once positioned, press the button on the signal box and feel for the tactile cone underneath (if it is available).
5. Once the audible sound commences and/or the tactile cone starts spinning, that’s the signal to start to cross the road at a steady pace.
Top tip
Take your time and, if in any doubt, wait. If you do start crossing the road and think you may have made an error of judgement, unless danger is imminent, continue on your course across the road rather than going back as drivers are less likely to anticipate someone retracing their steps and will wait until you've finished crossing, even if they have a green light.
Support and advice
Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans are here to support those with sight loss and visual impairment. If you require help and advice around crossing the road safely, or anything else, you can get in touch with us today by calling our Support Line.
You may also be interested in
Mobility cane or guide dog?
For blind or partially sighted people, the choice between using a cane or a guide dog is often a personal one. There are a number of options to explore to help navigate the environment safely and as independently as possible when out and about.
Five things to know about sighted guiding
In our latest blog, Sight Scotland Veterans Rehabilitation Officer, Mick Hilton, shares five key things to know about sighted guiding for people with sight loss or a visual impairment.