GUIDE Dogs is appealing to drivers not to park illegally on pavements.
The charity says the growing problem is putting the lives of blind and partially-sighted people at risk every time they venture out.
To highlight the problem Warwick and Leamington MP Chris White, a long-time supporter of Guide Dogs, took to the streets for a blindfold walk to experience the problems faced first hand.
Guide Dogs Campaigns Manager James White said: “Imagine you have to step into a road where you can’t see on-coming traffic. People who are blind or partially sighted have to face this shocking reality every day. We are urging politicians to act, preventing this form of inconsiderate and dangerous parking.”
Guide dog owner, Susan Williamson, is completely blind in her right eye and has very limited vision in her left.
She said: “When a car parked on the pavement blocks my way, my dog and nine year-old daughter have to guide me out into the road.
“It’s a busy area where cars come round the corner quickly and stepping out to get round vehicles blocking the pavement is really intimidating. It’s a constant concern for me and my husband – who is in a wheelchair -and it would be so easily solved by parking on pavements being prevented by law.”
Guide Dogs has also called on police and councils to clamp down on pavement parkers.
Stella guides Chris round Cubbington. 08.015.001.leam.jm6
Chris and Stella after the MP experienced first hand the difficulties faced daily by blind and partially sighted people. 08.015.001.leam.jm5
