Editor’s note: The opinions expressed in the Gazette’s letters column are those of the letter-writers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Gazette’s editors. We also reserve the right to edit letters for space.

Dear Editor:

This letter is a plea to all automobile drivers, especially those operating hybrid cars. I am almost totally blind and use a white cane to help me get around. On Wednesday, June 9 at about 8:40 a.m., I was nearly struck by a hybrid car at the corner of Wood and Taylor Streets.

As trained to do, I had stopped at the corner, listened to make sure everything sounded clear, then started to cross the street. Suddenly, the hybrid was right in front of me, nearly running over my cane. As it was operating at low speed using its electric motor, I could not hear it. As a person who is blind, I depend on traffic sounds to know when it is safe to cross a street. Hybrids stopped or operating at low speeds make virtually no sound, so I cannot hear them.

My message to automobile drivers, especially those operating hybrids, is to pay careful attention and make sure pedestrians are not present before going through intersections. As for all of us, please ask that Congress pass and President Barack Obama sign the Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 2010. This legislation contains language which would, eventually, establish a minimum sound standard for hybrid vehicles so pedestrians can hear them, even when they are stopped or operating at low speeds.

Hybrid and electric vehicles provide great benefits to our environment and communities. However, those operating them must do safely, including paying careful attention for pedestrians, especially those who are blind or visually impaired.

Ray Campbell
Adaptive Technology Program
Chicago Lighthouse