by Lenny McHugh
In 1985, Pennsylvania passed a new Pedestrian Right-of-Way Law. It stated that if anyone was standing in a crosswalk, all cars had to stop. For me, that sounded like freedom. The White Cane Law had already been around for many years, requiring drivers to stop for anyone holding out a white cane.
Together, these laws meant greater safety and independence for those of us who are blind.
Crosswalks were also required to be clearly painted, and any city that failed to do so risked losing federal funds. It felt like real progress — laws that finally recognized our right to travel safely.
There was a little store I enjoyed visiting just two blocks from my home, across a busy highway that ran through town. With the new law in place, I was eager to give it a try. I went to the corner, found the crosswalk, and proudly raised my cane. I was ready to cross, confident that traffic would stop.
Instead, one car sped by so close that it struck my cane. The driver yelled out, "What's the matter with you, are you blind?"
I stood there stunned — hurt, angry, and disappointed. I wasn't looking for trouble, just the simple right to cross the street safely. I went home, still shaken, and called the police to report what had happened.
I asked the officer if they could publish something in the paper to help people understand these laws. When I mentioned the White Cane Law, he asked, "What's the White Cane Law?"
That question said it all. After explaining it to him, he told me that if someone came in saying I hit their car with a stick, he would arrest him. Then he added that since Market Street was a state highway, I'd need to call the state police.
So, I did. The trooper who answered told me to get the license plate number and make a citizen's arrest. I couldn't help myself. I said, "Do I reach up and feel the plate as the car runs over me?" His only advice was to have someone else get the number next time.
At that time, I worked at PennDOT in the computer center and knew several department directors. I spoke with the Director of Driver Licensing and asked if he could add information about the White Cane Law to the driver's manual. He told me, "Lenny, I'd do it in a minute if I could, but it's controlled by the legislature." He encouraged me to contact my state senator — and I did, again and again.
It took more than four years of persistence, but eventually, the law was added to the Pennsylvania Driver's Manual.
Blind Pedestrians
When driving near a blind pedestrian who is carrying a white cane or walking with a guide dog, you must slow down, always yield the right-of-way, and proceed with caution. Be prepared to stop your vehicle to prevent injury or danger to the pedestrian.
That day I learned that change doesn't happen just because a law is written — it happens because someone speaks up and keeps pushing until things improve. I may not have crossed the street that first day, but I did help pave the way for others to cross more safely in the years to come.
Please visit my web page. It's motivational, inspirational with a touch of humor. There is also a very extensive resource list for the blind.
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