Wisconsin’s “White cane” law (Chapter
346 Rules of the Road)
346.26
Blind pedestrian on highway.
346.26(1)
(1)
An operator of a vehicle shall stop the vehicle before approaching
closer than 10 feet to a pedestrian who is carrying a cane or
walking stick which is white in color or white trimmed with red
and which is held in an extended or raised position or who is
using a dog guide and shall take such precautions as may be
necessary to avoid accident or injury to the pedestrian. The fact
that the pedestrian may be violating any of the laws applicable to
pedestrians does not relieve the operator of a vehicle from the
duties imposed by this subsection.
346.26(2)
(2)
Nothing in this section shall be construed to deprive any totally
or partially blind person not carrying the white or the red and
white cane or walking stick or not using a dog guide of the rights
of other pedestrians crossing highways, nor shall the failure of
such totally or partially blind pedestrian to carry such cane or
walking stick or to use a dog guide be evidence of any negligence.
346.26(3)
(3)
No person who is not totally or partially blind shall carry or use
on any street, highway or other public place any cane or walking
stick which is white in color, or white trimmed with red.
346.26 - ANNOT.
History:
1977 c.
302.
