Crossing the road is a difficult task for many visually impaired pedestrians. In this report, metal `Z's were installed on the crossing pole of a Zebra crossing to help pedestrians identify the crossing type (i.e. a Zebra rather than any other type of crossing). In addition, two sounds were tested to determine whether they helped to guide subjects to the Pelican control box, and comments were sought on a tactile map of the road crossing layout. Fifty-five visually impaired subjects took part in the trials. The subjects found the `Z's a useful means of identifying the crossing as a Zebra. Most of the subjects also found the sounds at the Pelican guided them to the control box, with marginally more subjects preferring the second sound tested. The subjects liked the idea of a tactile map, but found the one on trial too complex. Recommendations are made based on these findings. (A)
Abstract