Electric car revolution: Charging cables clutter streets

author: FutureCar Staff    

Charities have warned that the electric car revolution could turn pavements into 'minefields' for pedestrians. The National Federation of the Blind UK (NFBUK) and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (Rospa) are calling on the Government to address the safety concerns associated with replacing petrol and diesel cars with electric vehicles (EVs). They argue that the proliferation of EV charging cables could lead to dangerously cluttered streets.

One of the main concerns raised by campaigners is that around 40% of homes do not have access to a driveway or garage, meaning many EV owners will have to trail a cable across public pavements to charge their cars. This could create effective obstacle courses and increase the risk of trip-related accidents. The NFBUK and Rospa claim that ministers have not yet provided a solution that would not jeopardize the safety of pedestrians, particularly blind individuals who may feel too unsafe to venture outside.

Sarah Leadbetter, a registered blind individual from Narborough, Leicestershire, shared her personal experience with the issue. She mentioned that her guide dog sits down at EV cables, making it difficult for her to navigate around them. Leadbetter expressed her worries about the growing number of electric cars and how it could limit her ability to go out and perform daily activities like taking the bus or going to the shops.

Sarah Gayton, representing NFBUK, highlighted the potential dangers that charging cables pose to blind and visually impaired people. She explained that the presence of cables on pavements could turn them into a "minefield," where individuals with white canes could get tangled or trip over the cables, leading to serious injuries or even fatalities.

Rebecca Guy from Rospa suggested that local planning authorities should encourage EV owners to use public charge points instead of trailing cables from their homes to their vehicles. This would help mitigate the safety risks associated with charging cables on pavements.

In response to the concerns raised, a Department for Transport spokesman stated that local authorities are responsible for addressing trip hazards and must take into account the needs of disability groups when deciding on the location and operation of charge points.

FutureCar Staff