10
1
1.5.6. Operation on Public Roads
● When the wheelchair is operated outdoors, its legal status is that of a pedestri
-
an. Make sure to adhere to the rules and manners of a pedestrian.
● On general roads, be careful of automobiles, bicycles, and pedestrians. Be sure
your do not collide with pedestrians.
● Do not operate the wheelchair where pedestrians are not allowed (car roads, in
the middle of a road, etc.).
● If the road has a sidewalk, operate the wheelchair on the sidewalk.
● If the road does not have a sidewalk, operate the wheelchair on the side strip of
the road where pedestrians walk.
● If the road does not have a side strip, operate the wheelchair on the side of the
road where pedestrians walk.
● If two or more wheelchairs are traveling together outdoors, the wheelchairs
should be operated in a single line with sufficient space between the wheel
-
chairs. The wheelchairs should not be operated side by side.
● It is extremely dangerous to travel on a narrow street without a sidewalk.
Choose a safer path whenever possible.
● When starting off or moving backward, be careful of other people and obstacles
around you.
WARNING
● Be careful not to travel too close to the
edge when traveling on an embankment,
etc., of a road. Depending on the condition
of the shoulder of the road, you could acci
-
dentally move off the road.
● When traveling on a sidewalk that does not have a guardrail, there is a risk of
falling into the street side. Have an assistant accompany you instead of travel
-
ing alone.
● When traveling near a ditch, the tire may fall into it if there is a gap even if it is
covered. Have an assistant accompany you instead of traveling alone.
● If there are any obstacles, stop the wheelchair and check in front of you and
behind you for safety before proceeding.