Blind Scots charity boss threatened by cyclist after he almost crashed into guide dogs

**Blind Charity Boss in Glasgow Threatened by Cyclist for Nearly Crashing Into Guide Dogs**

A visually impaired charity boss in Glasgow has raised concerns about the increasing threats faced by visually impaired individuals due to dangerous cyclists in the city centre. Fraser Fleming, co-founder of TripleTapTech, spoke out after he and fellow charity founder Graham Gunning were threatened with violence at a crossing on Bath Street and Blythswood Street. The 40-year-old, registered blind, recounted an incident where a cyclist sped through a red light, nearly colliding with them. Despite the light turning green, the cyclist aggressively confronted them, verbally abusing and threatening them. Fraser pointed out that such incidents of dangerous cycling are impacting the safety of visually impaired individuals, leading to the cancellation of training and appointments as they feel unsafe traveling to the Renfield Centre HQ.

According to Fraser, near misses involving guide dogs are becoming a weekly occurrence in the city, with cyclists disregarding traffic rules and cycling on pavements. These incidents are not only stressful for visually impaired individuals and their guide dogs but also have lasting effects, such as spooked guide dogs unable to work for days. Fraser emphasised the need for action to address illegal cycling in the city centre to protect the public, especially visually impaired individuals who are increasingly at risk of serious injuries. He proposed campaigns to tackle this issue and urged authorities to take measures such as removing modified electric bikes that can reach speeds comparable to motorbikes.

**Insights and Summary:**

The safety of visually impaired individuals, particularly when navigating urban environments, is of paramount importance. The incident involving Fraser Fleming and his guide dogs highlights the urgent need to address the risks posed by dangerous cyclists in city centres. The impact goes beyond mere inconvenience, as it can have profound effects on the well-being of visually impaired individuals and their guide dogs. Addressing illegal cycling practices through awareness campaigns and enforcement of regulations is crucial to ensure the safety and accessibility of public spaces for all members of the community. Initiatives to create a more inclusive and secure environment for visually impaired individuals must be prioritised to prevent such incidents and promote a safer urban landscape for everyone.