[Massachusetts-NFB] Some points to consider about the benefits of WAYMO

[sharawinton at gmail.com]

In regards to the loss of jobs, I would flip the narrative. Over 60% of
blind people are not working, or are working part time. One major barrier
that our population is facing is accessing reliable, affordable, dependable
transportation. Oftentimes city buses run late, or the drivers do not
announce important intersections. Paratransit presents its own challenges,
that you could discuss in Boston. Rideshare often denies blind people using
service dogs and sometimes denies blind people with white canes. These
transportation options make it difficult or impossible for people to
reliably get to work, and if you are not physically present to work, you are
no longer a candidate for the job.

Autonomous vehicles have the ability to provide reliable accessible
transportation for populations without a drivers license, so a greater
segment of the population will have more opportunities for employment.
Including all blind people.

Autonomous Vehicles & the National Federation of the Blind 
National Federation of the Blind - Key Talking Points
What is a fully autonomous vehicle? Talking Point: a vehicle that is driven
by computer software gathering information from the physical environment
through the use of cameras, lidar, and radar to see in 360° simultaneously.
These are often referred to as level four autonomous vehicles that operate
within a defined geographical boundaries example the city of Phoenix, or
level V autonomous vehicles, which will be capable of independently
navigating across the entire United States.

Soundbite: "fully autonomous vehicles are not science fiction, as we speak,
they are operating in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Phoenix, Houston, and soon
will be in Atlanta, DC, and Denver."

no drivers license, no problem 
Talking Point: in many communities a drivers license is a symbol of freedom
and independence. People born blind are often told that it is devastating
that they will never drive an automobile. People who become blind frequently
struggle with giving up their drivers license as a loss of independence. 

Soundbite: "I knew it was time to give up my drivers license, because I
nearly ran over an older woman. She was standing in my blind spot about to
step into the crosswalk ."
The National Federation of the blind goes around artificial barriers
Talking Point: National Federation of the blind designed an automobile that
can be driven by a blind person. In 2011 President Riccobono operated a
specially designed Ford focus independently around the track at the Daytona
Speedway. The vehicle had specialized sensors and cameras, similar to those
used in current autonomous vehicles, but they shared visual information with
the operator translating visual information into sensations that can be felt
through touch. 
Soundbite: "automobile manufacturers are enthusiastic about working with us,
because we have accomplished what was said to be impossible, putting a blind
person behind the wheel."

Increasing Freedom and Independence
Talking Point: Autonomous vehicles give blind people the chance to travel on
our own terms - no waiting, no relying on someone else's schedule. Whether
it's going to work, the store, or visiting friends, this technology can open
the same doors of independence that sighted drivers already enjoy.

Soundbite: "Autonomous vehicles mean blind people can finally hit the road
on our own terms."
Talking Point: In neighborhoods or situations where drivers might hesitate,
autonomous vehicles provide peace of mind. They reduce the risk of being
stranded because no driver was available or willing.
Soundbite: "Autonomous vehicles don't cancel on you - they show up."

Access Anytime, Anywhere
Talking Point: Unlike human drivers, autonomous vehicles don't stop at
midnight. They're available 24/7, can serve rural and less populated areas,
and show up when called - no wondering if a driver will take the trip.
Soundbite: "Autonomous vehicles don't sleep - they're there when and where
we need them."
Dignity and Equal Treatment
Talking Point: Autonomous vehicles don't judge or discriminate. They won't
turn someone away because they are blind, use a cane or guide dog, or come
from a different background. Everyone gets the same reliable service.
Soundbite: "A car without human bias means equal rides for everyone."
Innovation for Everyone
Talking Point: Technology built for accessibility often benefits everyone.
Talking computers for the blind in the 1970s paved the way for today's smart
speakers. Making autonomous vehicles accessible will spark the same kind of
innovation.
Soundbite: "Accessibility drives innovation - and everyone wins."
Talking Point: the National Federation of the blind has partnered with
industry leaders including Waymo, Chevrolet, Otto Innovators, The autonomous
Vehicle Industry Association, and are a founding member of PAVE. We have
contributed Our lived experience in ensuring the accessibility of platform
apps, innovations enabling when passengers to locate their AV non-visually,
audible trip announcements that provide the right fit of information,
accessibility of onboard controls and future developments. 
Soundbite: "the car was so easy to find. I pushed a button on my iPhone app,
the phone played a unique tune, and the car in front of me played the exact
same sound."

Everyday Impact
Talking Point: For a blind parent, it could mean driving kids to school. For
a blind professional, it could mean getting to an early flight
independently. For seniors or anyone who can't drive, it means staying
connected to their community.
Soundbite: "From school drop-offs to airport runs, autonomous vehicles bring
independence to everyday life."




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