Accessible Ground Transport: Taxis, Rideshare, and Public Transit

Accessible ground transport is the weakest link in many destinations. Standard taxis and rideshares cannot accommodate most wheelchairs. Here's how to navigate this challenge.

Research accessible taxis and rideshare before you arrive

Before you travel, research:

• Does Uber WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle) operate in this city?
• Are there local accessible taxi companies, and do they require advance booking?
• How far in advance — some require 24–48 hours' notice
• What is the cost compared to standard taxis?

In many cities, accessible taxis are limited in number and high in demand. Save the phone numbers and apps for at least two accessible transport providers at each destination.

Check public transit stop by stop

A city may claim its metro or bus system is "accessible," but that often means only certain stations, certain lines, or certain vehicles.

London's Tube, for example, has only about a quarter of stations that are step-free from street to platform.

Check accessibility on a per-station basis using:
- The transit authority's accessibility maps
- Apps like Citymapper that show step-free routes
- Recent reports from wheelchair users

For buses, check whether they have ramps or kneeling features and whether drivers are trained to deploy them. Trams and light rail are often the most reliably accessible public transit option.

Always have a backup plan if the lift at your target station is out of service — this happens regularly.

Arrange adapted rental vehicles well in advance

Rental car companies with hand controls or wheelchair-accessible vehicles exist but availability is extremely limited. Book weeks in advance, not days.

Available providers:
- US: MobilityWorks, BraunAbility
- Europe: Hertz and select local companies offer hand controls on request
- Australia: Avis offers hand controls at select locations

Confirm the specific adaptation: left-hand accelerator, push-pull hand controls, spinner knob, or full WAV with ramp. Also confirm the boot space can fit your wheelchair if you're transferring into the driver's seat.

Get written confirmation of your booking — verbal promises are unreliable for specialised equipment.