http://www.ocala.com/article/2008041...ntertainment02
Quote:
. . .
With electric motors to supplement gasoline engines, the hybrids can offer better gas mileage and generate less air pollution than their gas-only counterparts.
But advocates for the blind say such vehicles pose a potential threat to blind people because of their low noise level relative to gas-powered cars.
"Blind people are unable to hear them, and of course, hearing [cars] is how we navigate safely and effectively," said National Federation of the Blind spokesman Chris Danielsen. "Blind people cannot hear these vehicles ... There have been blind people who have had some very close calls."
. . .
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This appears to be the home town paper of Rep. Cliff Stearns who co-sponsored HR 5734. Now I could write a reply but it would have more impact if a Florida voter wrote a reply to this article. It needs to be in your words but cite the facts and data:
- noise makers on hybrids leave them just as dangerous as gas-only vehicles
- six blind killed in 2006 were struck by gas power vehicles
- we need better technology than unaided ears
I've tried to cover all that I know about the issue including Prof. Rosenblum's article that nothing is needed above 25
mph. Even at 5
mph, the hybrid cars are heard 40% closer, at 5
mph. But it really takes Florida residents writing and commenting on the article to get the message out.
Bob Wilson
Ocala.com - Hybrid cars: . . . too quiet?
