Accessibility in taxi

Universal Design in the Taxi Industry

Taxis play an important role in public transport for people with disabilities. Regulations require that taxi services must be accessible to everyone.

The Equality and Anti-Discrimination Act prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability, also in the context of transportation.

Vehicle Requirements

The county municipality can require that a proportion of taxis in a license area be adapted for wheelchair users.

Driver Assistance Duty

Taxi drivers have a duty to assist passengers who need help.- Help passengers in and out of the vehicle.

• Assist with luggage, walkers, and other aids.
• Secure the wheelchair properly with restraint systems during driving.
• Be patient and give the passenger the time they need.
• Drive carefully and avoid sudden acceleration and braking.

Wheelchair Transport

Special rules apply when transporting wheelchair users.

• The wheelchair must be secured with approved tie-down straps to the floor.
• The passenger must use a seatbelt adapted to the wheelchair seat.
• The driver must be trained in using the ramp or lift and all attachment points.
• Check that the ramp is free of obstacles before the passenger boards.
• The vehicle must have sufficient headroom for the wheelchair user.

Passengers with visual impairments

• Introduce yourself with name and confirm the booking.
• Describe the surroundings and provide verbal information about the trip.
• Help the passenger find the seatbelt.
• Inform about arrival time and give a notice before you stop.
• Service dogs always have access to the taxi.

Passengers with hearing impairments

• Use clear speech and maintain eye contact.
• Write down information if necessary.
• Be aware that the passenger may have difficulty perceiving sounds in traffic.
• Confirm that the passenger has understood the fare and destination.

Further reading

• Read about passenger safety for general safety requirements.
• See local knowledge to find available destinations.
• Read about taxi license and the requirements for driving a taxi.
• Practice with free theory test to test your knowledge.