RNIB comments on byelaws regarding dockless bikes

Zoe Courtney, Policy and Campaigns Officer at RNIB said:

“All pavement obstructions have a significant impact on blind and partially sighted people because they make it harder to get around. Dockless bikes that have been discarded on pavements and crossing points can become a trip hazard, which sometimes even result in injury. In some instances, blind and partially sighted people have told us they have been forced to step into the road to get past dockless bikes obstructing their way, which puts them at risk of collisions with cyclists and motor vehicles, especially on roads with higher traffic volumes.

“We think it’s positive that Transport for London are looking to address this important issue head on by developing a byelaw to create parking zones for dockless vehicles and a fine for providers where dockless vehicles are not parked in these zones. For the byelaw to make any real difference, the parking zones will need to be situated away from public walkways, any technology used needs to be reliable and accurate, and enforcement measures must be effective. We also believe that the byelaw needs to be developed with blind and partially sighted people, and options for docking all hire vehicles must be considered."

Notes to editors

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About RNIB

We are the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB).

Every six minutes, someone in the UK begins to lose their sight. RNIB is taking a stand against exclusion, inequality and isolation to create a world without barriers where people with sight loss can lead full lives. A different world where society values blind and partially sighted people not for the disabilities they’ve overcome, but for the people they are.

RNIB. See differently.

Call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or visit www.rnib.org.uk