Private Disability Transport Services
Private hire vehicles are a vital link in the accessible transport chain and, although disabled people are reported to travel a third less often than the public in general, they use disability transport services on average 67% more often.
Both private and public entities are subject to accessibility laws and they address not only vehicles, but also stations. Transportation is a vital link that allows people with disabilities to enjoy and participate in the many aspects of society, including work, commerce and leisure activities. Both Federal and State law address transportation specifying that no entity shall discriminate against an individual with a disability in connection with the provision of transportation service.
Some Voluntary Welfare Organisations (VWO) provide private transport services for both their members and the public. The service provides transport for persons with disabilities to hospital visits, work, etc.
Whether you require a disability transportation service to work, college, school, or just to go shopping or attend an event, you will often find a private company in your area who can provide you with your mobility needs.
In the U.S. Paratransit is a service operated in some areas in which individuals who are unable to independently use the regular transit system (because of a physical or mental impairment) are picked up and dropped off at their destinations.
In Britain The Disability Rights Commission produced a series of good practice guides for disabled transport providers. Each guide deals with a different transport sector and offers practical advice on good practice. The booklet is intended to be a practical guide, offering good practice advice to tour coach operators in serving disabled customers and potential customers. It shows how the adoption of good practice can promote equal treatment of, and avoid discrimination against, disabled people.
If you live away from a major city or town or want real freedom about when and how you travel, using your own car may be the best option for you. This, of course, means thinking about if you want to, or can, drive again. An advantage of a modified car is that people who do not require the modifications can also drive it. This is because all modifications have to be removable or not restrictive of other drivers.
Many countries today have special features built in to their public transport systems to meet the needs of disabled and other travelers such as pregnant women, elderly people and those carrying small children. With rapid urbanization and expansion of public transport, disability activists are working with government and private companies to provide better transport services and facilities for those with disabilities.
Governments around the world are urged to provide accessible public community transport and liaise with both public and private transport operators to ensure greater and more accessible services to cater for the needs of people with a disability. Lobby your powers that be for greater accessible public and private transport for the disabled.
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