Title

Access to over the road buses for passengers with disabilities

Document Type

Working Paper

Publication Date

2007

Subject Area

Infrastructure - Signage, Location - USA, Mobility - Disability Discrimination Act, Mobility - Wheelchair, Modes of Transport - Bus

Abstract

The American for Disability Act, ADA, defines Over-The-Road Buses, OTRBs, as vehicles characterized by an elevated passenger deck located over a baggage compartment. These vehicles should provide a level-change mechanism or boarding device to permit wheelchairs or other mobility aid users to reach a securement location. Over The Road Buses, OTRBs, are one of the most economical means of transportation between cities. Some serve rural areas that are typically left out by other transportation modes. Many efforts have been made in the last decade or two to improve accessibility to OTRBs for passengers with mobility impairments, lesser efforts to address the information and communication requirements of the elderly and those with sensory impairments. This paper investigates the access solutions for mobility impaired passengers as well as the information and communication needs for sensory impaired travelers and will identify the gaps for both groups of passengers.