It can be hard to quantify the precise number of disabled people who reside in the UK, especially when you consider the range of disabilities that exist in these shores. However, there are estimated to be 14 million or so disabled citizens in the UK, creating a huge market of people who experience physical and mental ailments that require direct attention. For taxi drivers, it therefore makes perfect sense to ensure that their vehicles are suitable for disabled citizens. But what steps can be taken to achieve this advantage?
#1. Study the Laws and Regulations
When redesigning your vehicle to carry disabled passengers, you’ll need to consider the rule and principles laid out by The Equalities Act 2010, which imposed duties on the drivers of designated wheelchair accessible taxis and private hire cars.
These include not charging extra for the assist, and ensuring that passengers aren’t transported in an unsafe manner.
However, the most pertinent elements of this legislation focuses on mobility assistance, and the fact that taxi cars must comfortably enable the passenger to get in or out of the vehicle in question.
Similarly, there must be a provision for the passenger to get in and out of the vehicle while remaining in the wheelchair, as some individuals won’t want to leave the comfort or security of their chair.
It must also be possible to comfortably load the passenger’s luggage in and out of the vehicle, otherwise the car won’t be compliant with the terms laid out in The Equality Act.
#2. Make Room for an Assistant or Guide Dog
Depending on the nature of a passenger’s disability or impairment, they may have a so-called “assistance” or “guide” dog accompanying them.
The vehicle must create ample space for them too, which must create a comfortable environment for the animal in question and allow them to be transported safely and securely at all times.
Of course, you can buy wheelchair-accessible cabs directly from the used market, enabling you to make this type of relatively simple modification as and when required.
#3. Recognise Hidden Disabilities
Of course, it can be hard to identify hidden disabilities, which can subsequently make it difficult to optimise your disability-friendly taxi.
However, it is possible for people with hidden impairments to wear sunflower lanyards, which reaffirm that they have an unseen disability and prompt a discussion with service providers about what can be done to help them.
By being observant, you can check to see what can be done to make a passengers’ vehicle more comfortable, while also prompting future modifications that may prove invaluable over time.
