St. Gallen police remind drivers to yield to raised white canes

The St. Gallen Cantonal Police have issued a safety reminder regarding the legal obligations of drivers when encountering visually impaired pedestrians. A white cane held aloft in the air serves as a mandatory stop signal, indicating that a person with a visual impairment intends to cross the street.

Drivers of cars, motorcycles, and bicycles are required to stop and grant right-of-way, even if the person is not at a designated pedestrian crossing. The police advise motorists to reduce speed early, maintain sufficient distance, and refrain from using hand gestures to wave pedestrians on, as visually impaired individuals may not be able to see them. Additionally, drivers are cautioned against honking, which can startle the individual and disrupt their orientation.