In this blog, I will help you answer the question: can a mobility scooter go on a bus? But before that, I want to point out that the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) states that airlines, trains, and buses must be wheelchair and mobility scooter-friendly. But not all transportation types follow this. Every city and state in the US has its city regulations and state laws governing mobility scooters and other mobility devices on buses. These regulations explain how to carry or transport mobility scooters with its user to public bus systems.
So going back to the question, can a mobility scooter go on a bus? Yes. ADA refers to mobility scooters, wheelchairs, and other mobility devices as a mobility aid or Durable Medical Equipment (DME) in tax terms. ADA considers mobility scooters as an entity necessary for medical needs. It is the responsibility of both the transit operator and the rider to abide by the ADA and DOT regulations that mobility scooter users are allowed and safe to ride on the bus.
Now let me explain what ADA is and its specific regulations.
Americans with Disability Act (ADA) of 1990
It is the right of every American to be traveling on a bus. As such, there should not be any impediment for a person and his mobility scooter boarding the bus after paying his bus fare.
The Department of Transportation, the agency tasked to implement the American With Disability Act of 1990, requires all public transit systems to provide accommodation for persons with disabilities and their mobility devices.
- The ADA includes the requirements the bus and the disabled person need to comply with when traveling by bus with a mobility scooter:
- The product (mobility scooter) should be vital in assisting the disabled person to be mobile.
- The mobility scooter should be a three or more-wheeled model.
- The mobility scooter can be either battery or manually-operated.
- The mobility scooter should not be over 30″ wide by 48″ high.
- Bus operators should ensure the safe conveyance from one place to another of the disabled person and his mobility scooter.
- The bus should have a ramp or lift so the disabled passenger can board the bus in his mobility scooter.
- The disabled passenger should be treated with sensitivity and without discrimination.
- The bus personnel cannot force the disabled passenger if he does not want to sit in the bus seat but insist on sitting in his scooter.
- The disabled passenger can have his mobility scooter stored in the cargo area or the seating area. The seating area should have a secure spot to park the mobility scooter.
The ADA regulations mean to protect the rights of the disabled person while ensuring that the mobility scooter does hamper the safety of the other passengers.
Ramps and Lifts on Buses
Ramps and lifts will make it possible for disabled persons to take their mobility scooters on a bus. ADA has specific regulations about ramps and lifts on buses:
- After August 25, 1990, Buses purchased should have lifts and ramps to make them accessible for individuals with wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
- All bus drivers should have enough training on operating the lifts and ramps when needed for use.
- Lifts and ramps should be regularly maintained to ensure they are working at all times.
The Department of Transportation requires that the bus have a regular maintenance schedule for the lift and ramp to ensure they are operating well.
Transit authorities often have slight differences in rules and regulations about taking your mobility scooter on a bus. To avoid any complications, check with your local transit authority to determine if your mobility scooter can go with you on a bus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the frequently asked questions about taking your mobility scooter with you on the bus to avoid misinterpretation of ADA regulations.
The US Department of Transportation requires transport providers to understand the different mobility aid devices considered “wheelchairs” based on the definition of DOT regulations.
Section 37.3 of the DOT ADA regulations defines a wheelchair as a mobility aid with three or more wheels. They are used indoors and designed for use by individuals who have mobility issues. They can either be powered or manually operated.
Mobility scooters (3-wheeled) fall under the definition of a wheelchair as per the DOT definition.
Can a bus operator refuse to accept a person with a disability using a mobility scooter?
No. Prohibited under Section 37.5 (g) of the regulations of the DOT ADA. Bus operators cannot refuse to accept an individual with a disability and his mobility scooter.
Can a transit operator require secured mobility scooters in the bus?
Buses are required to have a securement system based on DOT ADA regulations (49 CFR Part 38. Section 37.165(c)(3) and the transit operator has all the right to establish this policy – to require all passengers to secure their mobility scooter while on the bus.
The bus operator has the right to refuse a passenger service if he refuses to have his mobility scooter secured on the bus. On the other hand, bus operators also have the right to create a policy that does not require mobility scooters to be secured. Still, the transit operator personnel should provide the disabled individual with assistance.
Can the bus operator require a person to transfer from his mobility scooter to the bus seat?
Under Section 37.165 (e), the DOT ADA regulation states that persons who use mobility scooters can transfer to the bus seat if there is one available.
The passenger’s discretion is if he wishes to sit on the bus seat or remain in his scooter for the trip duration. However, the bus driver may suggest to the passenger politely to transfer to the bus seat but should not force them to do so.
Can a transit operator refuse a passenger if its mobility scooter is difficult to secure?
No. The transit operator cannot deny a rider service simply because his mobility is difficult to secure. It is the responsibility of the transit personnel to make sure the scooter is secured. The user of the scooter and the transit operator can discuss the right way to ensure the device.
Transit operators cannot deny a passenger and his mobility scooter to get aboard, except if the rider is intoxicated or violent.
Suppose you are a mobility scooter user and need to take the bus. It is best to get a copy of the Americans with Disabilities Act and the guidelines set by the DOT before setting off to ride a bus with your mobility scooter.
Tips for Traveling with a Mobility Device on a Bus
If you are a mobility scooter user and you need to take the bus, here are some safety tips to consider:
- Research about the bus company regarding the route you want to take. Make sure the buses have workable ramps or lifts. You should also check if they have available space on board for your mobility scooter.
- Ensure the mobility scooter you are buying is within the size requirement of the ADA and DOT regulation.
- If you plan to be on the bus often, consider buying a folding mobility scooter so transporting is a lot easier.
- Ensure you have an idea of how to secure your mobility scooter in a bus. Some transit personnel may not be familiar with your scooter type or model and may not know how to secure it.
Taking your mobility scooter on a bus means you are taking the scooter out of your home and using it on the road.
Here are some safety tips to bear in mind before taking your mobility scooter outside of your home or before getting into your scooter.
- Before taking your mobility scooter out of your home, make sure you have enough training, practice, and confidence in maneuvering your scooter on the road.
- Make sure your mobility scooter is in top shape.
- Fully-charged battery.
- Wires and plugs are properly protected and not exposed.
- Brakes should be in good working condition.
- All assembly mechanisms and locking pins are securely locked.
- Tires in good order and well-inflated.
- The seat is secure in place.
You are not legally bound to get insurance for your mobility scooter. However, it is a good idea to have third-party insurance in case of accidents.
Final Thoughts
Mobility scooters help persons with disabilities get back their freedom and independence. Mobility scooters also help give users a resemblance to everyday life, especially when they have activities that require them to be out of their homes.
Taking the bus on his own is one symbol of usefulness for an individual with a disability. ADA is a significant boost to the morale of persons with disabilities because it allows them to take public transport with their mobility scooter.
