Stop and think ... you might just save a life
You’re in a hurry. Maybe you’re late. You pull up and park beside a parked car and run up to your friend’s flat.[IMG1]
And don't park on the pavement Parking on the pavement can block pedestrians, forcing them to step off the pavement and walk on the road – creating a dangerous situation. For wheelchair users, those with visual impairments, elderly people and people pushing prams, this can make getting around particularly difficult – and sometimes impossible. Parking on the pavement also ends up costing money, because pavements aren’t built to hold the weight of vehicles. So flags often break, crack or wear more quickly if motorists park on them. [IMG2] |
Or your doctor’s office is on a narrow street. You can only find a space at the end where the space is really tight. You pull up and park with your wheels on the pavement.
Almost all of us have done one or both of the above. And why not?
There are plenty of reasons actually, which is why we’ve launched a new campaign, called Kerb Your Enthusiasm, in association with Lothian and Borders Police, Scottish Ambulance Service, Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service, and Capability Scotland.
We know it’s sometimes a relief to find a parking space, but we’d ask you to always think about how your actions could impact on others.
Don’t double park
Double parking can block fire engines and ambulances, wasting valuable moments in emergencies.
Double parking can also block in other vehicles, as well as cause accidents by reducing sightlines and spaces for other motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.
Don’t cycle on the pavement
If you cycle on the pavement, you may face a fine. More importantly, it can be dangerous and has caused many injuries and very occasionally, even deaths.
It is dangerous for pedestrians, particularly disabled and elderly pedestrians, as well as for the cyclists themselves.
You might think you or your child are safe cycling on the pavement, but according to the Scottish Government, 29 per cent of all cycling accidents occur on the pavements, with this rising to 43 per cent among children.