Use of Mobility Devices on Paratransit Vehicles and Buses

Regulations issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation implementing the transportation provisions of The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) defines a “common wheelchair” as being no more than 30 in. wide and 48 in. long, measured from 2 in. above the ground. In addition to transporting persons using common wheelchairs, the ADA requires transit operators to provide lifts and ramps that are able to accommodate 600 pounds, although transit agencies can choose to provide service for larger wheelchairs with lifts and ramps that accommodate more than 600 pounds. However, some mobility devices may not fit into the layout constraints of paratransit vehicles and buses. Travelers using wheelchairs and scooters can face a serious problem when trying to board a transit vehicle if their mobility device does not fall into the common wheelchair envelope of 48 in. long, 30 in. wide—a problem in both rural and urban areas. Also, the dimension challenge is compounded by the lack of designated, safe attachment points on mobility devices. This, combined with the increased weight beyond the design parameters of common securement systems, can lead to attaching securement devices at points which are not safe or structurally sound to protect the passenger, especially those on scooters. This report describes the current and emerging issues which limit the use of mobility devices in paratransit vehicles and buses, and includes a separate guidance document to assist transit systems, manufacturers, and transit users in the implementation of potential accessible design and accommodation solutions for the short and long term. This report also addresses potential safety improvements and the level of service of public transport for larger and heavier occupied mobility devices in paratransit vehicles and buses.