Socioeconomic and travel factors that affect perceptions of visually impaired persons regarding crosswalk tactile paving

• Published in: Travel, behaviour & society Vol. 36; p. 100811
• Main Authors: Ma, Yongfeng, Mo, Shaojie, Chen, Shuyan, Hu, Shuqin, Zhao, Jiguang
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.07.2024
• Subjects: Crosswalk tactile paving (CTP); Ordered logit model; people with visual impairment (PVI); Ordered logit model; Crosswalk tactile paving (CTP); people with visual impairment (PVI)
• ISSN: 2214-367X
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tbs.2024.100811

•Develop an ordered logit model where the socioeconomic factors and travel characteristics of Persons with Visual Impairments (PVI) affect their perception of Crosswalk Tactile Paving (CTP).•Demonstrate that education and orientation training tailored to the characteristics of PVI can effectively enhance the efficiency and acceptance of CTP use among PVI.•In the design and promotion of CTP, prioritize tactile texture, followed by regular maintenance and accurate placement of tactile bricks.•CTP can offer PVI an affordable and cost-effective option for independent travel in urban areas. Crossing streets is particularly perilous for people with visual impairment (PVI). Tactile paving provides an effective means for PVI to travel independently, which not only diminishes their reliance on others for transportation but also indirectly enhances their overall health by encouraging physical activity and contributing to improved mental well-being. This paper investigates the use of tactile paving at crosswalks, which are difficult to cross for PVI. The study aims to identify the factors that significantly affect PVI's perceptions of the usefulness of tactile paving at crosswalks. One-on-one surveys were conducted and Likert scales were used to measure the data collected, which were then analyzed using an ordered logit model. The study reveals that socioeconomic and travel factors influence perceptions about crosswalk tactile paving, and that education and training can improve its usage and efficiency. The findings of this study can guide the design and installation of crosswalk tactile paving, making it a valuable resource for enhancing the safety and autonomy of PVI.