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Question

Difficulty: MediumOlder and Disabled People

You are driving along a residential road and see a pedestrian carrying a white stick with a red reflective band. What does this indicate about the pedestrian?

  1. A
    The pedestrian has physical mobility difficulties and cannot easily step around stationary road hazards.
  2. The pedestrian is both deaf and blind.Answer
  3. C
    The pedestrian has a hearing impairment only and is waiting for approaching drivers to flash their headlights.
  4. D
    The pedestrian is visually impaired and relying on drivers to identify blind spots before proceeding.

Answer

The pedestrian is both deaf and blind.
Under the Highway Code, a white stick with a red reflective band indicates that the pedestrian is deafblind (having both hearing and sight impairments). Drivers should take extra care, give them plenty of time and space, and remember that they cannot hear vehicle sounds or see approaching hazards.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the visual aid described in the scenario
The pedestrian is carrying a white stick marked with a red reflective band.
Different mobility and sensory aids indicate specific road user needs under the Highway Code.
2
Apply Highway Code guidance on pedestrian sensory aids
A plain white cane indicates visual impairment, while a white cane with red bands signifies that the person has both hearing and visual impairments (deafblind).
Deafblind individuals cannot hear vehicle engines approaching or see approaching traffic.
3
Select the option that correctly describes the pedestrian's condition
Recognise that the pedestrian is deafblind and requires extra care and patience.
Correct identification ensures appropriate driver awareness around vulnerable road users.

Key Concept

Highway Code identification of deafblind pedestrians via red-banded white sticks
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Older and Disabled People

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