Before
You Go...
• Provide advance notice to your airline or travel agent if
you require assistance at the airport. TSA can only assist you with
the screening procedure. Your airline will assist you through the
airport facility and the screening queue line.
• If you require a companion or assistant to accompany you through
the security checkpoint to reach your gate speak with your airline
representative about obtaining a gate pass for your companion before
entering the security checkpoint.
• The limit of one carry-on and one personal item (purse briefcase
or computer case) does not apply to medical supplies equipment mobility
aids and/or assistive devices carried by a person with a disability.
• Make sure all your carry-on items equipment devices etc. have
an identification tag attached.
• Mobility aids and assistive devices permitted through the
security checkpoint include: wheelchairs scooters canes walkers crutches
prosthetic devices body braces augmentation and communication devices
(e.g. Braille note takers slate and stylus) dog guides service dogs
hearing dogs and diabetes related equipment and supplies.
• If you have a medical device (implanted on the interior or
exterior of your body) check with your Doctor prior to traveling to
determine if it is safe for you to go through the walk-through metal
detector or be handwanded. If your Doctor indicates that you should
not go through the metal detector or be handwanded or if you are concerned
ask the screener for a pat-down inspection instead.
Tips for the Screening Process
• If a personal search is required you may choose to remain
in the wanding area or go to a private area for your screening. If
you refuse either option you will not be able to fly.
• You should be offered a private screening before the beginning
of a pat-down inspection if the pat-down will require the removal
or lifting of clothing and/or display of a covered medical device.
• You may request a private area for your personal search at
any time during the screening process.
• You may ask for a chair if you need to sit down during the
screening process.
• You may request a pat-down in lieu of going through the walk-through
metal detector or being hand-wanded. You do not need to disclose why
you would like this option.
• If you have a disability condition or implant that you would
like to remain private and confidential ask the screener to please
be discreet when assisting you through the screening process.
Mobility
Disability
• Don't hesitate to ask a screener for assistance with your
mobility aid and carry-on items as you proceed through the security
checkpoint.
• Let the screener know your level of ability (e.g., whether
you can walk, stand or perform an arm lift). This will expedite the
screening process.
• Inform the screener about any special equipment or devices
that you are using and where this equipment is located on your body.
This will help the screener be careful during a physical search if
one is needed.
• Ensure that all bags and satchels hanging from, or carried
on, your equipment are put on the X-ray belt for inspection.
• Ask the screener to reunite you with your carryon items and
assistive device after screening is completed.
• Let the screener know if you need assistance removing your
shoes when additional screening is necessary.
• Let the screener know if your shoes cannot be removed because
of your disability so that alternative security procedures can be
applied to your shoes.
• Ask the screener to monitor your items during the screening
process and reunite you with them and assistive devices once x-ray
inspection is completed.
Hearing Disability
If the screening process is unclear to you, ask the screener to write
the information down or look directly at you and repeat the information
slowly.
Visual Disability
You may ask the screener to:
• Explain the security process to you.
• Verbally communicate to you throughout each step of the screening
process.
• Let you know where the metal detector is located.
• Let you know when you will be going though the metal detector.
• Let you know when there are obstacles you need to avoid.
• Find someone to escort you through the security process.
• Perform a hand inspection of equipment (e.g., Braille note-takers)
if the X-ray inspection will damage them.
• Reunite you with all of your carryon items and assistive devices
after the X-ray or physical inspection of the items is completed,
including electronic equipment which has been specially adapted for
your use.
• Verbally direct you toward your gate once the screening has
been completed.
Hidden Disability
• Persons with a hidden disability can, if they choose, advise
screeners that they have a hidden disability and may need some assistance,
or need to move a bit slower than others.
• Family members or traveling companions can advise screeners
when they are traveling with someone who has a hidden disability,
which may cause that person to move a little slower, become agitated
easily and/or need additional attention.
• Family members or traveling companions can offer suggestions
to screeners on the best way to approach and deal with the person
with a hidden disability, especially when it is necessary to touch
the person during a pat-down inspection.
• Notify the screener if you need to sit down before and/or
during the screening process.
Persons with Diabetes
• Notify the screener that you have diabetes and are carrying
your supplies with you. The following diabetes related supplies and
equipment are allowed through the checkpoint once they have been screened:
- insulin and insulin loaded dispensing products (vials or box of
individual vials, jet injectors, pens, infusers, and preloaded syringes),
unlimited number of unused syringes when accompanied by insulin, and
lancets, blood glucose meters, blood glucose meter test strips, insulin
pumps, and insulin pump supplies.
• Insulin in any form or dispenser must be properly marked with
a professionally printed label identifying the medication or manufacturer's
name or pharmaceutical label.
• Notify screeners if you are wearing an insulin pump and, if
necessary, advise the screener that it cannot be removed since it
is surgically implanted.
• Insulin pumps and supplies must be accompanied by insulin
with professionally printed labels identifying the medication or manufacturer's
name or pharmacy label.
• Advise screeners if you are experiencing low blood sugar and
are in need of medical assistance.
• It is recommended that used syringes be transported in your
checked baggage; however, when used syringes need to be in carry-on,
ensure they are in a hard, plastic-capped container (i.e. sharps disposable
container) for safety and containment.
Persons with Pacemakers
• It is recommended (but not a requirement) that individuals
with a pacemaker carry a Pacemaker Identification Card (ID) when going
through airport security.
• It is recommended (but not required) that you advise the screener
that you have an implanted pacemaker.
• Show the screener your pacemaker ID, if you have one, and
ask the screener to conduct a pat-down inspection of you rather than
having you walk through the metal detector or be hand-wanded.
Persons with Assistive Devices and Mobility Aids
Canes, Walkers, Crutches, Prosthetic Devices, Body Braces, and Other
Devices...
• Crutches, canes and walkers will need to go through the X-ray
machine.
• Notify the screener if your device requires special handling.
• Ask for assistance with your device(s) if you need it.
• The screener will perform a hand inspection of your equipment
if it cannot fit through the X-ray machine.
• Collapse canes whenever possible before they are put on the
X-ray belt.
• Once devices have been screened, screeners should hand back
your device to you in such a manner that helps you proceed without
difficulty.
• Screeners may need to see and touch your prosthetic devices
and body braces as part of the inspection process.
• You can ask for a private screening for the inspection of
your prosthetic device or body brace.
• Notify screeners if you need assistance during the inspection
of your prosthetic devices or body braces such as a chair or someone
to lean on.
• You may bring tools and appliances (e.g. wrenches, pull sleeves,
etc.) used to put on or take off prosthetic devices through the security
checkpoint once they have been screened.
Temporary Aids
Passengers who are temporarily using a wheelchair or assistive devices
due to an injury, surgery, or medical procedure should refer to the
"Mobility Disability" and/or "Persons with Assistive
Devices and Mobility Aids' sections under 'Persons with Disabilities."
Medical, Lifesaving, Evidentiary or Scientific Items and Crematory
Containers
These items may be allowed through the security checkpoint and aboard
an aircraft if you have made pre-arrangements with the airline. The
airline and screener will confirm that you have the appropriate documents
to verify the contents and establish your identity. Screeners will
treat the items with the appropriate respect and dignity.
Handicap
Cruising
Cruise
lines are becoming friendlier to travelers with disabilities. New
ships joining the fleets have cabins that are more accessible and
the public areas are designed to be more accessible. Cabins with roll-in
showers are now available in a wide range of categories and equipment
for passengers who are deaf or hard of hearing is available on many
ships.
These improvements are making cruising popular among travelers with
disabilities, but to get the most out of your trip and to avoid disappointment,
here are some things you should be aware of. One of the most popular
aspects of cruises are the shore excursions at all the exotic places
you dock. Shore excursions still present challenges for wheelers,
with most of the tours not being accessible. Accessible transportation
is often not available on these islands, but with a little resourcefulness
many wheelers have been able enjoy this all-important part of the
trip.
First you should be aware that many of the ports that are visited
require tendering of passengers going ashore. This occurs when either
a ship cannot dock at the shore due to it being too shallow or there
is no room. Passengers are transported to and from shore in small
boats. Wheelchair users must be carried on and off these boats. The
captain determines whether it would be safe to load a wheelchair user
and can deny them going ashore. This usually only happens if in the
event of rough seas or bad weather.
The most popular and easiest solution to shore excursions for wheelers
is to hire a taxi. (Obviously, you must be able to transfer) There
is usually an abundance of them when you go ashore. If there is two
or more in your party it usually works out to be about the same cost
as the ship excursions and you literally have a private guide. Be
sure to negotiate price before you start the trip. This will eliminate
unpleasant surprises at the end of the day. If you are a power chair
or scooter user you might want to consider bringing along a manual
chair to use on the shore excursions.
Sometimes the staff that is booking the ships shore excursions have
contacts on shore and can assist you in planning your shore excursions,
but unfortunately, this is not always the case.
TRAVEL
WITH OXYGEN
Traveling
with oxygen can be very intimidating but with proper planning it can
be accomplished comfortably and safely. You don't have to give up
the adventure of travel. You just have to make your arrangements in
advance and be willing to take the extra time to confirm details prior
to your trip.
Air Travel
Most
U.S. air carriers and many overseas carriers can provide service for
passengers requiring oxygen. The FAA requires a physician's statement
of your oxygen needs in order to fly on a commercial airline. You
can not bring your own oxygen on board, you must use airline supplied
oxygen. Requirements vary from carrier to carrier but, they all require
arrangements be made in advance and they all charge for in flight
oxygen. Some airlines require only 48 hours advance notice while others
require seven days. The best rule of thumb is make arrangements as
far in advance as possible. All airlines charge for oxygen, but the
charges vary. Some charge per canister, but most charge per for each
leg of the flight. The charges generally range between $50.00 and
$150.00 per leg. This means if you have to change planes on your trip
you will be charged twice. Therefore, if possible it is better to
take a direct flight or even one with an extra stop, but no plane
change. Airlines do not provide oxygen for in terminal use even during
layovers. You are responsible for making these arrangements separately.
(Note: Some first aid stations in airports have oxygen available).
Some cylinders have a flow meter that adjusts from two liters to eight
liters, while others offer either a low flow (2LM) or high flow (4LM).You
cannot check oxygen containers with baggage, but most airlines either
will allow you to carry an empty portable tank on board or checked
with baggage.
Tips for planning air travel
• Start by checking with your physician to make sure it is safe
for you to travel.
• Contact the airline you want to use as far in advance as possible.
• The arrangements are best made through their special services
or medicaldepartment. Tell them you require in flight oxygen and ask
theirrequirement.
• Find out what flow they can deliver and if they provide a
mask or nasalcannula. Some airlines only provide a mask but will allow
you toprovide your own cannula.
• Confirm the arrangements 48 hours prior to your flight.
• It is a good idea to arrive early at least an hour and a half
on domesticflights.
Cruises
Most cruise lines will accept passengers who require oxygen. Advance
notice of at least 10 days is required. A doctors letter is required
and you must arrange and provide you own equipment and oxygen. To
get specific requirements of the cruise line of your choice, contact
their reservation number and ask for special services or medical department.
If you would like to go on a cruise, but would like to have support
available, Medical Travel offers a variety of group sailings each
year designed specifically for oxygen users.
To find out more
contact:
Medical Travel, Inc.
5184 Majorca Club Drive, Boca Raton, Florida 33486
Telephone: (561) 361-9384 * Fax:(561) 361-9385 * Toll Free:(800)778-7953
Website: http://www.medicaltravel.org* E-mail: oxygen@medicaltravel.org
Tips for Finding an Accessible Hotel
Getting
accurate information about the accessibility of a hotel can be a little
tricky and sometimes frustrating. Most people do not intentionally
give you bad information. It happens because they do not understand
what it is you are asking or they don't understand the importance
of their answers. In an effort to be helpful, they sometimes tell
you what they think you want to hear.
First, always talk directly to the property. Central reservations
services for hotel chains have limited information in their systems.
They have never even seen the hotel, nor are they even in the city
you will be visiting. Therefore, contacting the hotel directly is
must. When contacting the hotel tell them that you need to talk to
someone who can give you some details about their rooms equipped for
guests with disabilities. When you get someone on the line the first
question to ask is, "Have you been in these rooms?" If the
answer is no, ask to speak to someone who has. From this point on
avoid questions that require a yes or no answer. For instance instead
of asking do you have roll-in showers, ask them to tell you about
the bathrooms. This will give you a real good idea how familiar they
are with the rooms.
If you have trouble getting the information you need, ask to speak
with the head of engineering. These people usually know a great deal
about the rooms. Often they were even involved in the design and construction
of the accessible rooms. Another good source of accurate information
is the head of housekeeping. You become very familiar with a room
after cleaning it a few times.
If all else fails ask for the general manager. Tell him you would
like to stay at his hotel but you cannot get the information you need
about their accessibility. If they do not know the answers, they usually
will find out for you. A word of caution: never assume anything.
Once you determine that the hotel will suit your needs, reserve the
room with a credit card so the room will be held for your arrival.
Confirm that the reservation is guaranteeing an accessible room not
just a room with a request for an accessible room. It also is a good
idea to reconfirm your reservations a day or two before your arrival.
A unique situation that may is arriving at your hotel and being told
that the accessible room you reserved is not available. The first
thing you need to know is that it is not your problem; it is the hotel’s
problem. It is their responsibility to find you another suitable accessible
room, even if they have to put you up at the Ritz. However, you will
more then likely have to point that out to them and make them take
ownership of the problem. Address the issue like this: "Gee that's
too bad, where are you putting us up for the night." Tip - Before
going too far with this approach, ask to speak to a manager or supervisor
as desk clerks generally lack the authority to do much in these situations.
Just keep your cool, be persistent and the situation generally will
get resolved.
Here is another situation where knowing your rights can be helpful.
Many hotels offer free airport shuttle to their guests. Many of these
shuttles are not accessible, which they are often not required to
be. However, the hotel is required to provide wheelchair users with
alternate accessible transportation at no charge. What often happens
when you ask if their shuttle is accessible, they will respond, "I'm
sorry our shuttle is not accessible." Your next question should
be is "What alternative arrangements has the hotel made."
This is another one of those situations that if you are not getting
the right answers, ask to speak to a manager or supervisor.
If you like to take road trips and not make reservations along
the way, here are some tips that might make save you some headaches.
• Always stop early, preferably no later then 4-5 O'clock.
• If possible stop at highway interchanges there are several
hotels located.
• If the first hotel doesn't have a suitable accessible room,
ask if they know which of the others might. Often, they will even
call around for you.
• When you find an accessible room, always take a look at it
before you check in.
Air
Travel Tips for Wheelchair or Scooter Users
The key
to a safe and comfortable trip is planning
When
making airline reservations:
1. Make your reservation as far in advance as possible.
2. Tell the reservations person that you will be traveling with a
wheelchair or scooter.
3. Inform them if you need assistance in boarding (an aisle chair
to get to your seat)*
4. If it is a long flight and you are able to use a standard plane
restroom but are unable to walk to the restroom ask that they make
an aisle chair available to you during the flight. Some airplanes
have a privacy curtain that includes the aisle that would allow a
companion to assist you. But keep in mind that airplane restrooms
are quite small.
5. On newer and refurbished wide body jets (the ones with two aisles)
there is one accessible restroom. It is large enough to fit the aisle
chair inside so making it possible to transfer to the toilet. These
planes generally carry an aisle chair, but it is a good idea to confirm
that one will be on board.
6. Always confirm that they have a record of your requests 48 hours
prior to departure.
7. Some of the newer planes have lift up arms on some of the aisles.
You can request to be seated there if they are available. It makes
transferring easier. Some passengers prefer to request bulkhead seats
that have more legroom, but the air rests on these seats do not lift
up.
*NOTE: An aisle chair is a narrow straight back chair with wheels
underneath. It is designed to fit down the aisle of an airplane and
is used to assist passengers that cannot walk.
When you get to the airport:
1. Arrive early
2. Always check your chair or scooter at the boarding gate and request
it be brought back to you at the gate when you arrive.
3. It is suggested that you use gel or foam filled batteries in your
scooter or power chair. They are also known as dry cells. (NOTE: Standard
acid filled batteries or wet cells will be removed by ground crew
and packed in special containers for transport.)
4. If you use a fold up manual wheelchair you can request that it
be stowed in the on board coat closet. (NOTE: There is only room for
one wheelchair and the service is available on a first come first
serve basis, so you should arrive early to make your request. Plus
not all planes have a coat closet).
5. Make sure your name and address is on your equipment and that it
has a gate delivery tag if it is being stowed below.
6. If you have to change planes request that your own equipment be
returned for the layover. This not only assures your independence
while in the terminal, it reduces the risk of it getting lost or damaged.
Since wheelchair users are last off the plane make sure you allow
enough time to make your connection. At least an hour and at big airports
at least an hour and a half.
7. DAMAGE CONTROL - Remove seat cushions and any other parts that
could easily become separated from the chair. Take these items into
the cabin with you. Attach instructions on scooters or power chairs
detailing how and where to disconnect the batteries, also instructions
for any other disassembly or prep that might be necessary for transport.
If you have a large power chair, be aware that on some planes like
the MD80s or Super 80s the cargo opening is only 26" high. Therefore,
some disassembly may be required. You can ask what type of equipment
will be used when you make your reservations. Having instructions
on your equipment are very important because even if you are available
to give the employees instructions, the crew at the other end didn't
see how it came apart.
8. If you need assistance transferring to the plane seat, take responsibility
for yourself and tell the staff how to help you or pick you up, etc.
Yes, they should be trained, but you are always safer not assuming
anything.
9. Before landing remind the flight attendant that you will need your
equipment brought to the gate so they can radio ahead to make the
arrangements. This can help speed things up.
10. If you have any problems or damage ask to speak to the "Complaint
Resolution Officer" (CRO). Each air carrier is required to have
a CRO available by phone or in person at all times. This person is
specially trained in dealing with problems that travelers with disabilities
may encounter.
11. If you are traveling with a scooter or power chair, make sure
you arrange for transportation that will be able to accommodate your
equipment upon arrival.
If you only need a scooter or wheelchair for distance you may prefer
to rent one at your destination for a day or the entire trip. Also
many theme parks and other attractions that require a lot of walking
have scooters or wheelchairs available for rent or loan.
US Air Carriers are not covered under the ADA. The are covered under
the Air Carriers Access Act. To learn about your rights under the
Air Carriers Access Act these free publications are available.
A 28-page information booklet that is a wealth of information on the
Air Carriers Access Act, what you can expect and what to do if you
have a complaint. You can receive a free copy by contacting the Eastern
Paralyzed Veterans Association, 75-20 Astoria Boulevard, Jackson Heights,
NY 11370-1177. Phone: 718-803-EPVA.
A 40-page booklet "New Horizons, Information for the Air Traveler
with a Disability" is put out by the U.S. Department of Transportation
and can be obtained by calling PVA Distribution Center at: 888-860-7244
(Order No. 2100-16)
QUESTIONS ABOUT SERVICE ANIMALS
What
are the laws that apply to businesses?
Under the ADA, privately owned businesses that serve the public, such
as restaurants, hotels, retail stores, taxicabs, theaters, concert
halls and sports facilities are prohibited from discriminating against
individuals with disabilities. The ADA requires that businesses allow
people with disabilities to bring their service animals onto business
premises in whatever areas customers are generally allowed.
What is a service animal?
The ADA defines a service animal as any guide dog signal dog, or other
animal individually trained to provide assistance to an individual
with a disability. If they meet this definition, animals are considered
service animals under the ADA regardless of whether they have been
licensed or certified by a state or local government. The ADA takes
priority over any county health department or state or local laws
regarding service animals.
How can one determine if an animal is really a service animal and
not just a pet?
Some, not all , service animals wear special collars and harnesses.
Some, but not all, are licensed or certified and have identification
papers. If you are not certain that an animal is a service animal,
you may ask the person who has the animal if it is a service animal
required because of a disability. Although a number of states have
programs to certify service animals, you may not insist on proof of
state certification before permitting the service animal to accompany
the person with a disability.
What must be done when an individual with a service animal
comes to a business?
The service animal must be permitted to accompany the individual with
a disability to all areas of the facility where customers are normally
allowed to go. An individual with a service animal may not be segregated
from other customers.
Are businesses required to change a posted "no pets"
policy?
Yes, a service animal is not a pet. The ADA requires you to modify
your "no pets" policy to allow the use of a service animal
by a person with a disability.
Can maintenance or cleaning fee be charged for customers who
bring service animals to a business?
No. Neither a deposit nor a surcharge may be imposed on an individual
with as disability as a condition to allowing a service animal to
accompany the individual with a disability, even if deposits are routinely
required for pets. However, a public accommodation may charge its
customers with disabilities for the cost of repairing or cleaning
furniture damage by a service animal if it is the public entity's
policy to charge when non-disabled guests cause such damage.
Can a private taxicab refuse to provide services to individuals?
Private taxicab companies are also prohibited from charging higher
fares or fees for transporting individuals with disabilities and their
service animals than they charge to other persons for the same or
equivalent service.
Who is responsible for the service animal while the person
with a disability is in a business?
The care and supervision of a service animal is solely the responsibility
of his or her owner. A business is not required to provide care or
food or a special location for the animal.
What if a service animal barks or growls at other people, or otherwise
acts out of control?
Any animal may be excluded, including a service animal, from a facility
when that animal's behavior poses a direct threat to the health and
safety of others. Although a public accommodation may exclude any
service animal that is out of control, it should give the individual
with a disability who uses the service animal the option of continuing
to enjoy its goods and services without having the service animal
on the premises.
Can an animal be excluded that doesn't really seem dangerous but is
disruptive to a business?
There may be a few circumstances when a public accommodation is not
required to accommodate service animal - that is when doing so would
result in a fundamental alteration of the nature of the business.
Generally, this is not likely to occur in restaurants, hotels, retail
stores, theaters, concert halls and sporting facilities. But when
it does, (for example, when a dog barks during a movie), the animal
can be excluded.
Travel Tips For People Who
Are Blind or Visually Impaired
Plan ahead.
Read about your destination before your trip so you know
what to expect and what sights you'll want to visit. Make reservations
whenever possible. Call airports and airlines ahead of time to find
out about services, including seating arrangements, special meals
and shuttle services.
Carry written directions with you. Have directions
written down before leaving. Even if you can't read them you can ask
for help by showing them to someone else if you get lost. It's also
helpful to have a copy of the exact address of where you are going.
A driver may not know where a specific hotel is, especially if there
are several with the same name.
Keep necessities with you at all times. Carry your
money, keys, tickets and bus pass in a pocket. If you happen to misplace
your purse or wallet or someone takes it, you still can reach your
destination. Keep some extra money handy for tips.
Know the bus schedule. Inform the bus driver where
you want to get off so he knows to call it out. Sit near the front
of the bus.
Notify others about your needs. Inform your travel
agency or companies such as airlines you are using that you are visually
impaired. Tell your companion or those around you about your visual
limitations.
Ask questions. If you cannot see a monitor or find
a gate at the airport or bus station, ask a customer service representative
or another traveler to help you find your way.
Carry your cane. Whether you choose to use it or
not for mobility purposes, your cane helps to notify others that you
are visually impaired.
Ask about amusement park or other tourist discounts.
Some of the amusement parks give discounts either to visually impaired
visitors or to their sighted guides.
Preboard and bring carry-on luggage. Avoid the hassle
of crowds and obstacles in aisles by preboarding trains and planes.
Packing only carry-on luggage saves you time and trouble by eliminating
a visit to the baggage claim terminal.
If you do bring a suitcase, remember its type and color.
It may be helpful to affix a colorful piece of yarn or sticker to
help you or anyone assisting you with easy identification.
Plan for guide-dog restrictions. Some countries and
states such as Hawaii either do not allow guide dogs for short visits
or have quarantine requirements. Call your local guide-dog school
for information on restrictions.
Enhance your sensory experience by going on tours and visiting
gift shops. Some tour groups allow travelers who are visually
impaired to experience an exhibit by touching object otherwise off-limits.
Gift shops often selll small scale replicas of monuments you can touch.
Research accommodations. Foreign destinations are
likely to have accommodations or services different from your home
city. Prepare yourself by researching your destination before you
plan your trip.
Information provided courtesy of:
The Braille Institute Education and Awareness
PO Box 491546
Los Angeles, CA 90049
310-473-0653 888-868-2455
Finding
Accessible Transportation
Because
of the growth of the Internet, finding accessible transportation in
a strange and distance city is becoming easier. Besides the obvious,
sites like this one, the existence of yellow page directories for
most cities can be very useful. Even if you do not have a name of
a company, you can go online and using these directories, find out
who provides airport shuttle or taxi etc. Then it does not usually
take more then a call or two to find out which companies can provide
accessible service.
Most major cities have at least one company that runs an airport shuttle
service between the airport and hotels. The majority of them either
can provide accessible service or will provide accessible alternate
service. Another way to find out whom these companies are and how
to reach them is to inquire at a hotel in the area. They may not know
if the company provides accessible service but they will know whom
they are and how to reach them.
A good resource for finding transportation options that is often overlooked
is the Center for Independent Living in that city. Most cities have
one and they all have an information and referral person. These organizations
are a wealth of information about all types of services for people
with disabilities. They often can put you in touch with transportation
options that are generally used by local residents, but that can be
utilized by visitors.
Another often-overlooked option is the cities public transit system
or their paratransit system. It is a great source of economical transportation
when I'm traveling.
Did you know that if you are eligible to use paratransit in your hometown,
you can use the paratransit in any city in the U.S. For those of you
not familiar with paratransit it is a door to door accessible service
that must be provided by any city in the US that has a public transit
system. It is available to passengers that are unable due to disability
to use the normal public transit system or in many cases it is more
broadly available when the regular bus or train system is not yet
fully accessible. The hours and advance notice requirements for use
varies widely from city to city so make sure to check it out in advance.
Some cities require travelers to provide proof of eligibility, while
others do not. Even if you don't make use of paratransit at home it
might be worthwhile to establish your eligibility to make use of it
when you travel. If you reside outside of the US and are disabled
this service is also available to you. Just contact the public Transit
Company located in the city that you will be visiting and ask them
for an application. Since processing can take several weeks make sure
you start well in advance of your trip.
If you don't need accessible transportation, but want to rent a car
with hand controls, they are available by at least the major car companies
at most U.S. airports. The length of advance noticed necessary varies
and the categories of vehicles that they are available on can be limited.
You can even make your reservation through their central reservations
number, but there are a few things you should do to make sure everything
runs smoothly. At least a few days prior to your departure contact
the office located in the destination city. Confirm your reservation
and make sure they know that you need hand controls. Also ask about
transportation from the terminal to their office. In many cities they
use shuttle buses for this and many are still not accessible. If the
agent is aware of your situation most will offer alternate service.
Generally, they will either deliver the car to you at the terminal
or pick you up in the car and take you back to their office to do
the paperwork.
