Travel and Transportation

Many transportation options exist for people with disabilities. Fixed route transit systems, paratransit, commuter systems, airplane and trains are more accessible than ever. Ride sharing, such as Uber and Lyft are available in most communities and drivers with disabilities can rent cars and vans with hand controls and wheelchair lifts. UCP is a champion when it comes to advocating for sufficient and accessible transportation that advances the independence and socialization for people with disabilities. Contact your UCP local affiliate for information about transportation options in your area.

The following resources can help ensure safer travel for children and adults with disabilities:

Tips for Parents on Safely Transporting Kids with Special Needs

Wheelchair Transportation Safety: Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs are intended for wheelchair users, parents, practitioners, clinicians and medical personnel, physical and occupational therapists, transit providers, school-bus transportation companies and personnel, transportation systems administrators, and the manufacturers of wheelchairs, wheelchair seating systems, and after-market wheelchair tiedown and occupant restraint systems who are concerned with transportation safety for children and adults who remain seated in their wheelchair when traveling in a motor vehicle.

Other Helpful Resources

TSA information to assist travelers through the screening and check-in process while traveling. Information specific to those with disabilities and medical conditions.

The Federal Section 5310 Program provides enhanced transportation options for people with disabilities and senior citizens.

Easter Seal’s Project Action promotes universal access to transportation for people with disabilities under federal law and beyond by partnering with transportation providers, the disability community and others through the provision of training, technical assistance, applied research, outreach and communication.

By Air

The Air Carrier Access Act prohibits discrimination based on disability in air travel and requires that all flights on U.S. airlines, and flights to or from the United States by foreign airlines, accommodate the needs of passengers with disabilities. Each airline has their own policies and procedures so calling ahead can help the travel experience go more smoothly.

New Horizons: Information for the Air Traveler with a Disability

This guide is designed to offer travelers with disabilities a brief but authoritative source of information about the Air Carrier Access rules: the accommodations, facilities, and services that are now required to be available.  It also describes features required by other regulations designed to make air travel more accessible.

Check out the recent guide to airlines’ accommodations for passengers with disabilities from Cheapflights.com.

Traveling Safely With Portable Oxygen, to help this group feel empowered to take a trip!

You’ll see that this guide includes: 

  • How to plan and prepare for long-distance travel if you use portable oxygen
  • A complete list of oxygen policies for each specific major air, bus, train, and cruise lines so readers can research for their unique needs
  • Safety tips for using and carrying oxygen in each mode of transportation, including rental options

By Land

Accessible vehicles provide greater independence for people with disabilities. Hand controls, pedal modifications, and steering devices allow people with disabilities to drive their own cars. Lifts, wheelchair carriers, and restraints allow a person with a disability to ride safely in a vehicle. Learn more about modifications and how to drive and purchase an accessible vehicle:

National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association

A non-profit trade association of mobility equipment dealers, manufacturers, driver rehabilitation specialists and other professionals dedicated to expanding opportunities for people with disabilities to drive or be transported in vehicles modified with mobility equipment. Provides information on financing and rebates available from auto dealers.

Wheeled Mobility

Mobility is often a key issue for people with disabilities. Fortunately, many types of equipment exist to assist with mobility. This includes manual wheelchairs, powered wheelchairs, scooters and more. You may consider working with a certified professional to evaluate your needs and determine the best equipment to your unique situation. Here are resources to assist you.

United Spinal Association

United Spinal Association provides an overview of wheelchair, mobility scooters, and assistive technology choices.

Helpful Resources.

Emerging Horizons

Emerging Horizons provides information, resources, news and travel tips.

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