walking . is . overrated

Following on from discussion surrounding the raising of the fine for parking in a mobility space from $40 to $150, it was suggested by a reader that a different kind of parking abuse goes on every day, a type of abuse which is arguably a bigger problem than mobility parking misuse. It surrounds the use of footpaths as ‘alternative parking spots’, thereby blocking its use by anyone that can’t skip nimbly past the offending vehicle. A truck parked across a footpath can hinder those who:

• Have a vision impairment
• Use a wheelchair
• Push a pram
• Use a mobility scooter
• Use a walking frame
• Rides a bike, even!

My attention was drawn to a Wellington initiative called ‘Yellow Feet’ (pictured above, click for larger view), which aims to discourage the use of footpaths as parking bays, by bringing motorists’ attention to the hazards they unwittingly create for others as a result. Check out some photos from the launch by clicking here, and if you’re based elsewhere in NZ, you might want to check out this flyer which you can print out and stick on the windscreen of those who don’t know any better - like this guy on the right!