How to Access Handicapped Transportation in Los Angeles

Wheelchair travelers have access to L.A. transit

Los Angeles provides excellent access to its public transportation system for the physically handicapped. According to the LATourist website, city buses and trains operated by the Metropolitan Travel Authority have wheelchair access. The Access Paratransit program provides eligible handicapped patrons with rides up to 3/4 miles to city bus and train locations. LAX airport, Greyhound buses, and Amtrak trains provide handicap services as well. Contact your hotel to make sure that their shuttle has wheelchair access.

Instructions

1. 

   Map your travel route

   Map your travel route, whether it is within Los Angeles or out of town . Note which mode of travel you will use for each leg of your journey, fares and reservations needed. Transit agencies have websites you can access with route information. The MTA Trip Planner is particularly useful. The MTA includes both MTA buses and Metrolink trains. Planning in advance will also give you time to qualify for special services.

2. 

   The wheelchair-bound have access to the sights in L.A.

   If you need transit to get to city bus (MTA) or train service (Metrolink), contact Access Paratransit ahead if you are ADA paratransit eligible. Access Paratransit provides shared rides for a minimal cost. A reservation can be made from 45 minutes to 24 hours in advance. LA Dot operates wheelchair accessible buses in Los Angeles. They provide low-cost Cityride and Dial-a-Ride Services which include low-cost taxi services for qualified handicapped riders.

3. 

   LAX airport provdes services for the handicapped

   For out of town travel, Metrolink provides train routes within California. Greyhound buses and Amtrak trains travel cross country. All of these carriers provide wheelchair access. Los Angeles International Airport Passenger Services provides for many special needs. A special travel agency provides the handicapped with special needs during travel.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not try to reach a real person by phoning city transit agencies. Websites are a much faster source of information. Ask someone reliable who takes public transit to assist you.Take adequate cash with you for your fares. Travelers sometimes use special pouches for their money. If you have a cell phone, carry it with you when you travel in case travel arrangements change suddenly. Be alert to any dangers and do not hesitate to ask your driver to assist you.

References

• L.A. Tourist: Accessible Transportation
• MTA: Trip Planner