Transportation

What are the transportation options for people who need assistance driving, taking the bus or who can not do either?  Transportation is a critical aspect of daily life, and ensuring that it is accessible and accommodating for individuals with special needs is essential.

To access transportation resources for individuals with special needs, it’s advisable to contact local government offices, disability service organizations, and transportation authorities. Additionally, online research, community bulletin boards, and word of mouth can help individuals and families discover available transportation options tailored to their specific needs and location.  Check out this fact sheet for general travel information for adults with special needs and their families.

Here are some tips for adults and families to consider when looking for transportation resources for adults with disabilities:

  • Paratransit Services: Many cities and regions offer paratransit services, which are specialized transportation options for individuals with disabilities who may have difficulty using regular public transportation. These services often provide door-to-door or curb-to-curb transportation.
  • Accessible Public Transportation: Public transportation systems may have accessible options, such as buses with ramps or lifts, low-floor trams, and subway stations with elevators. Some cities also provide accessible taxi services.
  • Mobility Assistance Programs: Various programs and organizations provide assistance in obtaining adaptive equipment for personal vehicles, such as wheelchair lifts or hand controls. This can enable individuals with special needs to use their own vehicles or those of family and friends.
  • Community Transportation Programs: Some communities have local programs that offer transportation services specifically for individuals with disabilities or special needs. These programs may be operated by community organizations, nonprofits, or local government agencies.
  • Specialized Transportation Providers: Private companies or nonprofit organizations may offer specialized transportation services for individuals with special needs. These services might include accessible vans or buses equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids.
  • Travel Training Programs: This service should be part of your IEP upon request.  In addition, some communities have travel training programs available to teach individuals with special needs how to use public transportation independently. These programs may cover topics such as route planning, navigating transportation systems, and safety measures.
  • State and Local Disability Services: State and local disability services agencies may provide information and resources related to transportation options for individuals with special needs. They can offer guidance on available programs and services in a particular area.

Travel training | Easterseals’ Project Action

Easterseals’ Project Action Consulting (ESPAC) now offers certification for professional travel trainers. Certified through the Center for Urban Transportation Research at the University of South Florida, the program provides new and veteran travel trainers with the Certified Travel Trainer credential.  Click the link to learn more: http://www.projectaction.com/travel-training-resources/ 

National Aging and Disability Transportation Center

Their goal is to promote the availability and accessibility of transportation options for older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers.  Click the link to learn more: https://www.nadtc.org/

 

Stand Up Wireless

They have gathered a list of agencies you may contact when you need to find transport for an individual with disabilities.  Click the link to learn more: https://standupwireless.com/blog-free-transportation-services-for-the-disabled-how-to-find-help/ .

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