Before I even begin on this posting, let me clarify my stance on those living with disabilities. I sympathise with the struggles those living with disabilities face on a daily basis and fully support equal opportunity and access. It's my hope that our government implements as many programs as needed to ensure we maintain the same standard of living for all, regardless of our physical abilities.
A few days ago, with my iPod playing some very happy tunes by KT Tunstall, I was walking towards the King streetcar when I had a near death experience. As I was listening to music and walking on the sidewalk, I didn't anticipate danger, but what transpired was a close call. Surprisingly, it wasn't the streetcar or a random car driving by that nearly ended my life, but instead a man driving an electric wheelchair who careened by at a speed fit for the Molson Indy. He just about took my left arm off, and when he manoeuvred in front of me turned around and shouted "watch where you're going lady"!!!
I generally don't enjoy being called lady or most recently "mam" – but that's a whole different article.
The experience with the surly man on Spencer Street brought me back to another close call I had with an electric wheelchair in college. I was entering a hallway when my toes were just centimetres from being amputated by a passing electric wheelchair. Thankfully, in that case I wasn't yelled at.
I suppose that since we're all sharing the sidewalk it would be most appropriate to do just that – share. The experience of having electric wheelchairs wiz by at the speed of light has been documented by several friends...so I know it's not just me. I'm all for the electric wheelchairs if you need it to get you from point A to B, but my gripe is with the lack of safety associated with a tool designed to improve access. Just as with bicycles, a bell or horn should be deemed necessary.
Also, on a side note – has anyone ever seen people in the electric wheelchairs riding in car lanes? Just proves my point though about the speed capabilities of the newer model electric wheelchairs.
Another thing that drives me bananas is when a couple or family take up the entire width of the sidewalk whilst casually strolling. I think it's wonderful that people are spending time together outdoors – hugging, loving, kissing, and walking are all highly appreciated, however, it is not appreciated when the participants are hogging the sidewalk. I think there should be a 2 person maximum for each direction. Also, slow walkers can be very frustrating for those in a rush. If you're a slow walker, that's wonderful! Slow walk to your desire, but it would be fantastic if you could be aware of people on your tail and perhaps move to the side.
Lastly, strollers. I'm actually envious of mum's I see meandering around town with these apparatuses. The amount of storage the modern day stroller is simply astounding. Multiple cup holders, bag compartments, mesh baskets, reversible seats – I'm jealous!! When I take my niece Emma for a walk, the pure power and strength contained her stroller is empowering for both of us and certainly makes for a lovely stroll. Similarly with the slower walkers, it would be nice for people to be aware of when they're causing congestion on the sidewalk and perhaps pull over to let people pass.
Am I missing any other sidewalk woes you'd like to discuss? Let me know!
2 comments:
Today I was riding along the bikepath and I almost rear-ended an electric wheelchair going about 4mph. I thought of you.
I only ever do it if I'm about to park at a post-and-ring, but I really think it's rude and potentially dangerous for people to ride their bikes on the sidewalk. Sometimes I'm a pedestrian and not a cyclist, and I've been almost clipped several times by ignorant, reckless people who think they can go full-speed on a bike on a crowded sidewalk.
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