A SHOCKING 59 per cent of drivers in the West Midlands admit they park on the pavement, but many of them don’t think about the danger they pose to people with sight loss, according to a survey.

Guide Dogs believes this thoughtless behaviour is making areas in the West Midlands no go areas for blind and partially sighted people and can undermine the life-changing freedom offered by a guide dog partnership. Guide Dogs wants to see councils in England use their powers to ban pavement parking and make our streets safer for everyone.

A total of 44 per cent of drivers in the West Midlands who park on the pavement haven’t thought about the possible negative impact on blind or partially sighted people.

The YouGov poll commissioned by Guide Dogs also shows that many pavement parkers in the West Midlands also haven’t thought about the possible risk they pose to other vulnerable road users like the elderly (48%), and adults with prams (30%).

Terry Smith, engagement manager for Guide Dogs Coventry Mobility Team, said: “Cars parked on pavements are an everyday nightmare for blind and partially sighted people, as well as other vulnerable pedestrians. Imagine how terrifying it is to step into a road when you can’t see on-coming traffic.

“Too often people with sight loss are forced out into busy roads because an inconsiderate motorist has blocked the pavement. It’s an unwanted barrier to the freedom and independence a guide dog brings. Councils in the West Midlands have the tools to penalise drivers who park on pavements and Guide Dogs want them to act now.”