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The Basics of Public Paratransit Transportation

To serve the community of individuals with disabilities, many state and local governments and some private companies have established paratransit transportation options. Paratransit transportation is meant to supplement public fixed-route bus and rail systems for individuals with severe impairments. From a taxi-like service to a semi-defined route, paratransit services often have varying levels of flexibility.

Transportation is a key component for independence and is often crucial for people with disabilities to participate in society through work, daily activities, and more. To make transportation more accessible, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that no transit service discriminates against an individual with a disability in providing transportation services.

The ADA goes further to obligate public transit agencies with fixed-route services to provide free paratransit service to individuals who may be unable to use a fixed-route bus or rail service due to disability. This disability must meet three general eligibility categories: needs an accessible vehicle, unable to independently navigate the transit system, or prevented by obstacles to reach the bus or train.

To apply for ADA complementary paratransit use, an application must be submitted with supporting documentation. In most cases, the application can be found on your city’s public transportation website. The process usually includes an in-person interview or an in-person assessment of the applicant’s abilities. Every transit system is different in its application process and eligibility determination.

Determining the Details of Complementary Public Paratransit Services

For individuals with impairments, complementary paratransit services make a huge difference in allowing independence. This transportation makes work and life errands accessible to individuals who may not have another way to get there.

ADA complementary paratransit service offers two different types of services: door-to-door or curb-to-curb. When you choose door-to-door service, the driver offers help from the customer’s front door to the vehicle and from the vehicle to the destination’s door. A curb-to-curb service means help entering and exiting the vehicle at the pick-up and drop-off location. However, in some situations, the driver may need to offer additional help depending on physical barriers in the walkway or during inclement weather.

Minimum Requirements for an ADA Paratransit Service

An ADA paratransit service must be within a three-quarter mile of the fixed-route public transportation, operating with the same hours and days. Fares must be equal to the fixed-route option or not exceed twice the usual fare. Moreover, personal care attendants should not be charged.

In most cases, paratransit services should be available to individuals when the request is made the day before. However, same-day scheduling is allowed but not mandated.

ADA Paratransit Services No-Gos

Sometimes people want to place tougher restrictions on these services so that the services are only used by people with severe disabilities. However, the ADA is adamant about keeping its language vague to ensure that all individuals with disabilities have a higher chance of receiving the services they need to live their lives. Therefore, the below restrictions should never be placed on ADA paratransit service users.

  • - No restriction on the number of trips for eligible users
  • - No waiting lists for service access
  • - High numbers of untimely pickups
  • - Substantial numbers of trip denials or missed trips
  • - Substantial numbers of extra-long trips

The ADA paratransit service can make a huge difference in creating an accessible world for individuals with impairments. In most cases, this service will exist in cities with bus routes and subway systems. Check your area for the available paratransit services.

For StrongGo, creating an accessible world is one of our highest values. We work toward this goal every day by designing, manufacturing, and implementing the use of TekWay ADA Dome Tiles for sidewalks and public transportation systems. Email one of our industry experts today at csd@stronggo.com!

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