Lichfield’s MP has backed a campaign calling for end to the problem of vehicles parking on the pavement.
The Guide Dogs charity visited the House of Commons to push MPs to act on the issue.
A survey by the organisation revealed that 90% of blind and partially sighted people across the UK had encountered problems dealing with cars parked on pavements.
Lichfield MP Michael Fabricant said: “I heard from guide dog owners how parked cars blocking the pavement force them to walk in the road, into the path of traffic they cannot see.
“Some guide dog owners face these dangerous situations on a daily basis, risking their safety every time they go shopping or make the school run.
“I do know that on some narrow streets, drivers sometimes have to park partially on the pavement but no-one should be forced to brave traffic by cars parked on the pavement. Blind and partially sighted people should be able to walk the streets without fear.”
Research carried out by YouGov revealed that 54% of drivers admit to parking on the pavement.
James White, senior campaigns manager at Guide Dogs, added: “Parked cars can turn the walk to work or trip to the shops into a dangerous obstacle course. It’s a nuisance for anyone, but if you have a visual impairment or a toddler in tow, stepping out into the road with moving traffic is just too big a risk.
“Our research shows that most drivers who park on the pavement know that it can be dangerous for pedestrians, but many do so regardless. That’s why we need clear rules so that drivers only park where it’s safe.
“Back in 2015, we were encouraged when the Government committed to find a solution to this problem. We hope that they will now follow up with a law to curb unsafe pavement parking.”
