I find that public transportation in most areas nowadays are pretty convenient. The only downside is, of course, the weather especially if you’re in a power chair. The electronics on our motorized wheelchairs can’t get wet. While the chair itself can get a little wet, some of the components like the joystick controller, or other special equipment can’t get wet because of sensors and other stuff. Here are some tips on what to do if you get caught in a snow or rain shower and your power wheelchair gets wet.
I find it funny that public transportation is so much higher when it comes to convenience and accessibility compared to the massive amount of restaurants in public places. Restaurants don’t seem very helpful when it comes to providing assistance. Maybe this is because of the vague language in the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act). The Department of Transportation has regulations enforced by the ADA. Generally, people who work on public transit are responsible for making sure you and your wheelchair travel safely on public transportation, and that you don’t experience any kind of discrimination. In my experience, people who run the public transit go above and beyond to help wheelchair users safely get on and off buses or subways, or in and out of taxis.
When you’re traveling, transit workers will ask and make sure that your wheelchair is secured. This is for safety reasons. For subways, like the Metrolinx Subways for example, these kinds of transportation might have a jerkier ride and you have to hold on to something. This is why it’s important that your wheelchair is secure. Yet, whether it’s a van, subway or bus, you usually get where you need to go, especially when you live in any major city.
With the way technology is nowadays, there’s usually apps that can help you find things you might need as someone with a disability or as someone who uses a wheelchair. We’ve all heard of Uber. Well, they have an app that helps you find a ride that offers a rear-way entry ramp or restraint system for your wheelchair. You can read more about it in top mobile apps for people with disabilities.
Most my experiences on public transit have been very easygoing. People are always courteous and try their best to help. I also find that other passengers are cool and they have the decency to make room for you, so you and your wheelchair can sit somewhere that is out of everyone’s way. Just remember, make you sure are prepared for issues, delays or whatever may come your way. With weather, traffic, maintenance issues on trains or busses, stuff happens, and you have to go with the flow.
About Jesse Cuellar: Jesse is an artist and a brand ambassador for Quantum Rehab®. An accident left him paralyzed from the neck down, so he uses his mouth to paint and expresses himself through his art. Jesse lives in St. Louis, Missouri, and enjoys painting and hanging out with his friends. Click here to learn more about Jesse.