Daily transportation for Disabled
Here are our best suggestions for using public transportation if you have a disability
We live in a world where disabled people in the developed world have access to planes, trains, buses and cars. All at our disposal to bring us where we need to be for work or leisure.
Some people with disabilities get their car adjusted so that they can drive, they are not slowed down by their disability. Public transportation - buses, trains, and airplanes - as well as the one-way ride from friends and family means I can be quite independent.
The downside to the lack of a driver's license is that it prevents us from finding a job with the many companies that need us to drive. This fact does not matter, but it makes us realize our limitations.
The busy train system can be a great place to read or organize a day - thank goodness for technology.
Most buses are wheelchair accessible. But problems usually arise when we travel to countries where transport policies for the disabled are not at the stage that we are used to in the developed world, which can be frustrating.
However, when your destination and the logistics of the trip are worked out, the transport problems can be overcome. Sometimes a person with a disability just needs to solve their transportation dilemma to come up with a solution.
Here are our best suggestions for using public transportation if you have a disability:
* Buy a monthly travel ticket before the start of each month - this can save you a lot - and don't forget to use any disability benefits. Ask for it at your local bus or train station as there may be additional bonuses that you are entitled to and that you were not aware of.
* Always carry the schedules and maps of the local transportation system with you, or even better, than on your phone, in addition to phone numbers that you can contact if you need help.
* Build a good relationship with the bus driver (s) you see regularly, I have noticed that they are even more helpful if they know me a bit.
* Allow yourself plenty of time to get from your home to the bus stop or train station - transportation doesn't always show up or leave on time.
* Be respectful of taxi or bus drivers, flight attendants or train travelers as they are the key to helping you get to your destination. They are often frustrated by difficulties like you, and often just want to help.
* People with disabilities have a variety of talents, and whatever means of transport they use is just a tool to get them where they need to be, day to day, and achieve their dreams.
