Spin e-scooter riders to look out for blind VRUs

Micromobility firm to offer training on disability awareness for people using its e-scooters
Mobility as a Service / March 4, 2021
By Ben Spencer
Spin says riders will know how to interact with blind or partially sighted people (© Liamwh7 | Dreamstime.com)
Spin says riders will know how to interact with blind or partially-sighted people (© Liamwh7 | Dreamstime.com)

Spin is working with non-profit organisation London Vision to educate electric scooter riders on etiquette to help protect blind or low-vision pedestrians in the UK. 

London Vision is to provide Spin with training materials that it will incorporate into a disability awareness safety module that can be accessed online, in-app and via in-person training events when lockdown restrictions ease.

Spin says riders who complete the module will be able to appreciate the implications of riding a scooter in the vicinity of a guide dog and know how to interact with blind and partially-sighted people.

Steve Pyer, UK country manager at Spin, says: “Partnering with experts like London Vision is a significant step in creating a better, safer, and less fearful relationship between e-scooter riders and blind and partially- sighted pedestrians.”

Bhavini Makwana, London Vision's engagement manager, says: “Our partnership with Spin demonstrates Spin's awareness of the legitimate fears of blind and partially-sighted pedestrians and a willingness to ensure that its riders are well-trained and as safe as possible". 

Spin has equipped its electric scooters with labels in braille to help make them more identifiable to those who are blind or visually impaired. Riders can also use the bell on the e-scooter to alert pedestrians that an e-scooter is approaching.
 

For more information on companies in this article