How, why, whom, you may ask. In plain terms, the unforeseen effect we mentioned earlier is the sound an EV or a hybrid makes when cruising down city streets. That sound doesn't exist (at least not at the levels we are used to from a regular vehicle) and this presents a real danger for pedestrians, especially for blind people, who can no longer locate the source of the sound.
"Blind people have the same right to safe travel as all other pedestrians," said Senator Specter. "I look forward to working with my colleagues on this important legislation to ensure that the blind and other pedestrians can continue to travel safely and independently."
The Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act of 2009 as it is called, requires the Secretary of Transportation to conduct a study on how to protect the blind and others from being injured or killed by vehicles using hybrid, electric, and other silent engine technologies.
"I'm a major proponent of hybrid vehicles - I own one, I drive one, and I've seen firsthand their environmental and economic benefits," said Senator Kerry. However, we must do more to ensure the safety of those who use senses other than sight to navigate the roads."
If the bill passes, the US government might make mandatory the use of some sound emitting devices on hybrids and electric vehicles. How they will work, be applied or accepted by the owners of such vehicles is yet to be determined.
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