Final answer:
Individuals using wheelchairs are considered pedestrians, entitled to the same protections and accommodations on sidewalks and crosswalks as able-bodied individuals, thanks to inclusivity efforts mandated by the ADA.
Step-by-step explanation:
Individuals using wheelchairs are indeed considered pedestrians when they are traveling on sidewalks or in crosswalks. With the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990, there has been a significant push for inclusivity and the creation of accessible public spaces for people with disabilities. The ADA mandates public accommodations to ensure that people in wheelchairs can navigate sidewalks, crosswalks, and other pedestrian pathways safely and independently, such as through the installation of ramps and accessibility-friendly surfaces.
This recognition not only enforces the importance of equal rights to access public pathways but also ensures that individuals using wheelchairs are afforded the same protections under pedestrian laws as those who are able-bodied. This consideration is essential for urban planning, city accessibility, and the development of inclusive transportation systems.