Did you know that 80% of wheelchair users find public wheelchair transportation difficult to access and use?
Wheelchair-friendly transportation is often inaccessible or difficult to navigate for wheelchair users. It can be challenging for those in wheelchairs to get around. That is unless they can access specialized transit.
The good news is there are plenty of ways for wheelchair users to get from point A to point B without breaking the bank. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of your options.
Public Transit Alternatives
Buses and Trains Public transit has made great strides in recent years to improve accessibility for wheelchair users. But there are still some challenges that need addressing.
The Americans with Disabilities Act requires new buses to be wheelchair-accessible. But they don’t provide resources to help fund these changes.
For instance, while newer buses have low floors and ramps, older buses may not. Only some bus stops have curb cuts, and train stations may have stairs or need elevators.
Even though it can be tricky, using public transit is a good way for wheelchair users to get around. It is one of the cheapest options out there. Many cities offer a Reduced Fare Card for individuals with disabilities, which discounts bus and train fares.
Some cities also have special programs that help people with disabilities who cannot use regular buses or trains. These programs give door-to-door service to anyone who needs it.
Customized Wheelchair Transport – Paratransit
Paratransit is another example of transportation options for handicapped people. Unlike public transportation, paratransit can be changed to fit their needs.
These services offer personalized door-to-door rides. Riders get picked up and dropped off at their desired locations. They operate on a pre-arranged schedule, making planning easy for riders.
Paratransit rides usually have more than one person in them. This takes longer than a ride by yourself. These services need an application process. Riders may need to provide documentation of their disability.
The downside to paratransit services is that they can be more expensive than public transit. And it may take more time to arrive at your destination if it’s a rideshare. But they offer a level of convenience unmatched by other options.
Taxis
Many taxi companies offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs). They may come with ramps or lifts to accommodate wheelchairs.
The downside is that availability can be limited depending on the city or region. And the cost of these services can be higher than traditional taxi fares.
Accessible taxis can be a convenient option for wheelchair users who need transportation at a moment’s notice. And they’re a great option if you prefer a private ride.
WAV Ride-Sharing Services
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have become popular in recent years.
These services don’t offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) in all markets. But there are specialized ride-share services that do. WAVs are unique cars with ramps or lifts to help people in wheelchairs get into the car. These cars are great for people in wheelchairs.
Some ride-sharing companies have unique features that make it easier for people who use wheelchairs to get rides.
Shared Ride Services
A shared ride service is a transportation option that allows multiple passengers to share a ride in the same vehicle. These services, such as UberPOOL or Lyft Shared, pick up and drop off passengers along a similar route. The shared ride allows riders to save on transportation costs.
Shared-ride services like GoGoGrandparent or Round Trip offer transportation to individuals with disabilities. They are an excellent option for those who need extra help during their ride.
The disadvantage of shared ride services is that they may only be available in some areas. And they may have specific limitations for wheelchair users.
Medical Transport and Wheelchair Vans
Private services like medical transport and wheelchair vans offer high comfort and convenience.
Medical transport companies provide transportation to and from medical appointments. But you can also use wheelchair van services for any transportation need.
One of these services’ main advantages is their high customization and flexibility. Medical transport companies can even provide trained medical staff to go with riders to their appointments. And that can be especially important for those needing medical help during transportation.
You can schedule wheelchair van services on demand. That allows riders more control over their transportation needs.
Another advantage of private medical transport and wheelchair vans is their comfort level. They have air conditioning, heating, and comfortable seating, making for a more enjoyable ride experience. Because these services offer a dedicated vehicle for each rider, they can provide higher privacy and security.
Prices for private medical transport services can vary. But they offer higher customization and flexibility. Another advantage of private medical transport and wheelchair vans is their comfort level.
Real-Life Examples and Success Stories
There are many success stories of programs that have created more accessible transportation options.
In Seattle, there is something called the King County Metro ParaTransit program. It helps people with disabilities travel on their own and get jobs. It has been a big success!
In New York City, ride-share company Via offers a “ViaVan” service. It has full wheelchair accessibility with ramps, lifts, and more. Services like ViaVan are making it much easier for people with disabilities to get around the city.
Find Transportation for Wheelchair Users in San Fernando, CA
For wheelchair users, finding accessible transportation can be challenging. But there are various options available. Public transit, ride-sharing, customized transportation, and private services offer unique advantages and disadvantages. Research your options to find the best fit for your needs.
Affinity Transit provides reliable services for wheelchair users at competitive prices. From airport transportation to medical needs, Affinity Transit can get you where you need to go. We’re committed to providing safe and reliable transportation for all our customers. Request a quote today to get on the road with Affinity Transit!
We look forward to serving you.