Public Disability Transport

Public transport operators have the same duties as any other service provider as far as disability discrimination is concerned. This means they mustn't treat you less favorably than they would treat a person who isn't disabled, unless they can show that the treatment is justified.

This applies to the vehicle itself as well as to other services provided by the operator, such as timetable information or facilities at a station. Airplanes and ships are not covered by these rules but the other services provided by aircraft and shipping companies are covered.

A variety of transport initiatives have been developed over the last years to improve the mobility of disabled people, including people with sensory disabilities, people with learning disabilities and people with a mental health problem, and the right to mobility of disabled persons is now enshrined within various disability acts.

Taxis and 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 taxis and PHVs on average 67% more often.

Regulations in most Western countries require all new land-based public transport vehicles - trains, buses, coaches and taxis - to be accessible to disabled people, including those who need to remain in their wheelchair.

Disability acts establish minimum accessibility requirements to be met by providers and operators of public transport conveyances, infrastructure and premises. The Standards take into account the range of disability covered by the acts and apply to most public modes of transport services.

A variety of transport initiatives have been developed over the last years to improve the mobility of disabled people, including people with sensory disabilities, people with learning disabilities and people with a mental health problem, and the right to mobility of disabled persons is now enshrined within various disability acts.

In most Western countries drivers of licensed taxis and minicabs are required to carry a guide dog and hearing dog, or an assistance dog accompanying a person with epilepsy or a physical disability, free of charge.

Public transport is expected to become more accessible by the replacement or upgrading of conveyances, premises and infrastructure at the end of their service lives. All new items have to comply with the Standards, so that non-conforming items are gradually retired or upgraded.

The development of the Standards aimed to achieve a sensible balance between eliminating, as far as possible, discrimination against people with disability, and ensuring that industry is not unduly burdened in the process. The standards aim to improve transport provision for disabled people - whether as pedestrians, public and special transport users, or motorists - while also improving accessibility in public places.

Further Information Regarding Public Disability Transport

Canada Disability Travel using Via Rail Trains
Travel tips for sight and hearing impaired persons when traveling aboard Via Rail trains in Canada. Seniors and passengers with reduced mobility will receive special attention from Via Rail personnel.