Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles Laws and Regulations

Wheelchair parking must be provided at all private businesses.

Disabled travelers have the right to wheelchair-accessible transportation, as mandated by federal law, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Private businesses must also include appropriate parking spaces for such vehicles.

Americans with Disabilities Act

The Americans with Disabilities Act, or ADA, serves as the federal government's policy on equal access for disabled people. Title II of the Act covers transportation regulations, including access to wheelchair-accessible vehicles, as enforced by the Federal Transit Administration, or FTA.

Parking Accommodations

The ADA requires public buildings and businesses to accommodate wheelchair-bound patrons by providing spaces close to the entrance for wheelchair-accessible vehicles to park. They must also allow sufficient room between the vehicle's loading zone and the adjoining parking space for wheelchair users to enter or exit the vehicle.

Public Transportation

Public transportation providers, including bus companies, railways and airports, must comply with ADA and FTA regulations by offering vehicles modified for wheelchair access. Wheelchair-accessible buses must have chair lifts that can safely lift at least 600 pounds and priority seating areas for disabled passengers.

References

• U.S. Department of Justice: A Guide to Disability Rights Laws
• FTA: Part 37--Transportation Services for Individuals with Disabilities
• FTA: Part 38--Accessibility Specifications for Transportation Vehicles