UK Driving Theory Practice Exam

If a pedestrian has a white stick with a red band, what does it indicate?

1. They are blind

2. They are deaf and blind

3. They have hearing difficulties

4. They have mobility issues

The correct answer is: They are deaf and blind

A pedestrian with a white stick that has a red band is indicating that they are deaf and blind. This specific marking is recognized internationally as a signal for those who have both visual and hearing impairments. The white stick serves as a mobility tool, while the red band provides additional visibility to alert others about the pedestrian's dual disabilities. This is essential for ensuring that drivers and other pedestrians understand the specific needs and precautions that should be taken when interacting with individuals who have these impairments. In the context of the other options, a white stick without the red band typically signifies that the person is visually impaired but not necessarily deaf. Therefore, a blind person would not use a red band on the stick unless they have combined vision and hearing difficulties, and individuals who are deaf or have hearing difficulties would not typically use this particular type of identification. Mobility issues alone do not warrant the use of this distinctive signaling system, as it is specifically designed to denote the challenges faced by those who are both deaf and blind.