Provisions for the Handicapped in Dutch Bus Design

This paper describes how handicapped people encounter many difficulties when using public transportation. This applies both to transport by train and transport by bus. Netherlands Railways has already made some attempts to ease the problems of traveling by rail, but as far as transport by bus is concerned, there are no general provisions for the handicapped. However, in some cases, there are separate transport facilities on a local scale (e.g. in Rotterdam) and there are also commercial services offered by private companies. In general, it can be stated that the usual regional buses are not suitable for wheelchair users. Handicapped people not confined to a wheelchair and elderly people also encounter problems to a greater or lesser extent when using buses. This paper describes the necessary bus modifications, which are required in order to accommodate the elderly and handicapped.