Submitted by Keith from Connecticut in response to “What Are Your Issues?”
I find it cynically humorous to read the following on the NYC’s web page concerning cab service:
“It is against the law for a taxi driver to refuse to pick you up because of race, disability, or destination within New York City while on duty. A taxi driver is required to drive you to any destination in the five boroughs, the counties of Nassau and Westchester and Newark/Liberty Airport.”
Visiting NYC for the first time on wheels, I’m glad I use a power chair! Shame on New York City.
Shame indeed, to NYC and most other cities. Good observation about your powerchair as an urban transporter. In a place like NYC a good powered wheelchair will almost always out distance public transportation (especially surface transportation). I know many a New Yorker who tools around the Big Apple in their chariot. The trick is having a wheelchair that is reliable enough to make the hump. Stuck in the middle of Second Avenue with a downed wheelchair is likely to be a bogus experience.
Keith, I couldn’t agree more. I travel extensively with my power wheelchair and I’m ashamed to say that my home town is among the worst when it comes to accesible cab service. And don’t get me started on the subways…
With more comments like yours, maybe NYC will realize that it’s alienating a whole population and forgoing tourism dollars…
Thanks for speaking up.
I live in DC, and it’s the same here with regard to taxi service. Disabled residents and visitors can use the Metro Access van service, but you have to book a day in advanced and often wait long periods of time for the van to arrive. However, our train service is fairly accessible. Although, I do have some issues with the train/platform gap sometimes!! How are the trains & platforms in NY?