Transportation and Vehicle Safety: statistic question, elderly pedestrians, blind pedestrians

Question
Drivers are twice as likely to stop for pedestrians in a crosswalk who are what?

Answer
Hi Amiee, and sorry for not being aware you had a question pending as I usually try to answer them the same day.

As to your question, it is greatly governed by generational ethics and beliefs. Unfortunately, the Vehicle Code for most people is only a set of rules that governs their consequences should they become stopped by an officer. What they do when they feel safe (No officers around) determines their responses.

While statistics are never a solid base to predetermine what someone will do (As they are often adjusted to a favorable response), I can provide a short list of those things that many will consider a better reason to provide safety to others. Do know that none that I list necessarily have a priority over the others.

Children usually under the age of 10
Handicapped pedestrians (Wheelchair - Crutches - Obvious Limitations)
Blind pedestrians with a recognized cane
Elderly pedestrians

The above list are those which many drivers will give preference to. This means that they will be more than likely to inconvenience themselves for the benefit of others, which is an ethics issue.

Then, we get into the area of avoidance. This means the driver won't inconvenience themselves, but they will try to avoid striking the pedestrians for obvious reasons.

In this area, wearing bright clothing during the day and reflective clothing during the hours of darkness so as to be well seen.

I realize you will find variations of these suggestions everywhere, including tests you may have to take and certainly the DMV manual. All I can provide for you is my experience and training,

Have a great day!

Terry