I use a manual wheelchair, and I plan to travel to London next year. I read online that I will need a RADAR toilet key in order to use the accessible public restrooms. Is this true, and how do I get this key?
RADAR toilet keys were the brainchild of the Royal Association of Disability and Rehabilitation, hence the catchy acronym. In the UK the single-use disabled toilets in public areas, office buildings, restaurants and pubs are kept locked, as they are larger than the standard loos, and sometimes people use them for other purposes (use your imagination on that one). It was also thought that having a key would keep these toilets available to people who really need them. So the key system was set up and RADAR sold keys to people that self-certified that they have a need for an accessible toilet.
Today RADAR is part of Disability Rights UK (DRUK), and they have RADAR toilet keys for sale on their website at disabilityrightsuk.org/shop/official-and-only-genuine-radar-key. These keys also work at Changing Places Toilets (changing-places.org/), which include all the standard access features, plus and adult changing tables and hoists. It should be noted that there are other companies that sell RADAR toilet keys, but since they are not the official keys, they may or not work on all disabled loos.
Do you absolutely need a RADAR toilet key when you travel to London? Not really, as keys are usually available at the venues, and you can obtain them by just asking an employee. That said, sometimes there may not be an employee on-site, or they might have problems locating the key, so there could be a delay in getting one. Since the cost of the key is minimal, and it doesn’t take up much room, I don’t see the harm in purchasing one online before you depart. Although you probably won’t need it most times, you’ll definitely be glad you have it if you do.
Barrier-Free Travel Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
I plan to take a Florida cruise next winter and I’d like to spend an extra week exploring South Florida before I fly home. I’d really like to take an airboat tour of the Everglades. I called one place that said they had wheelchair-accessible airboats, and they told me that I’d have to be carried aboard. I use a manual wheelchair, and I’d rather not be carried, but prefer to roll aboard. Do you know of a wheelchair-accessible airboat tour of the Everglades that is truly accessible?
A Truly Wheelchair-Accessible Airboat
I’m glad you are taking some extra time in Florida after your cruise, because there are really some great accessible sites to see, including the Everglades. And although I applaud the tour operator that you contacted for being willing to try and get you on the boat, carrying someone aboard does not equate to “accessible” in my book. Fortunately I’ve found a company that has a truly accessible airboat — Everglades Airboat Excursions (evergladesairboatexcursions.com).
Everglades Airboat Excursions has one wheelchair-accessible airboat. It’s equipped with a ramp in front, so wheelchair-users can just roll aboard. It can accommodate manual or power wheelchairs, and depending on the size of the wheelchairs there’s room for one or two in the level area in the front of the boat. There is also a railing around the accessible seating area, and a place to grab on if you feel you need a bit more support. And, because of how the boat is configured, you can also be close to the rest of your party. Best of all, you’ll get a great unrestricted view of all the action from the front seat.
The Tours
“River of Grass”
Everglades Airboat Excursions offers a number of private tours in their wheelchair-accessible airboat. At the top of the list are the one hour, 90-minute or two-hour day tours. These private tours depart from the Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area and travel through the Everglades sawgrass marshes. Along the way Captain Gerald shares fun facts about the ecosystem, and points out the alligators, sea turtles and sea birds. It’s a fun outing — no matter the length — with plenty of great photo ops along the way.
They also have a sunset airboat tour. This two-hour tour lets visitors enjoy the colorful sunset over the Everglades, while cruising along on the water. It’s a great choice for photographers, and it also makes for a nice romantic excursion.
And for a real treat, book their Red Eye Gator Tour. This two-hour night tour offers a close-up look at the resident alligators. And although it sounds a bit risky, the tour is actually quite safe because the alligators are momentarily blinded by the lights on the approaching airboat. And since they are unable to see, the airboat can safely get closer. It’s also easier to spot alligators at night because you can see the light reflecting off their eyes, even under cover of the tall grass.
No matter what tour you choose, it’s essential to make advance reservations, as walk-ups are not accepted. It’s also a good idea to book the accessible tours as far in advance as possible, especially during the peak season. And if you have any questions or other concerns, then give the folks at Everglades Airboat Excursions a call at (561) 662-2419, or e-mail Captain Gerald at gerald.motes@gmail.com.
Have fun!
Barrier-Free Travel Favorite Florida Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
I have a accessible parking placard that was issued to me in CA, and I’d like to take a few road trips out of state. First I’d like to hit the road and travel across the US and visit some national parks along the way. After I have the hang of a road trip, I’d like to fly to Europe, rent a car and explore Germany, Austria and Switzerland. My one big question is, can I use my parking placard in other US states as well as in Europe, or do I need to get other permits? Also can you tell me where I can find out about accessible parking regulations in Europe?
Using an Accessible Parking Placard in the US
For the most part, a parking placard issued in any US state is good in all 50 states. The one big exception to this rule is New York City. Although out-of-state placards are good in New York state, you cannot use them to park on the street in New York City. You can however use out-of-state placards in accessible spaces in off-street lots in New York City.
In order to park on the street in New York City, you need a New York City Parking Permit for People with Disabilities (NYC PPPD). This permit allows people with a severe permanent disability to park at most curbside locations in New York City. It is available to both city residents and non-city residents who have a severe disability that affects their ability to walk. This permit is generally for people who are unable use public transportation, and require the use of a private vehicle.
In order to obtain a NYC PPPD your disability must be certified by your personal physician, as well as a New York City physician designated by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Medical Certification Unit. For more information about the NYC PPPD, visit nyc.gov/html/dot/html/motorist/pppdinfo.shtml.
Your parking placard is also valid in Europe, so definitely take it with you. In 1997 the European Conference of Ministers of Transport (ECMT) passed Resolution No. 97/4, on Reciprocal Recognition of Parking Badges for Persons with Mobility Handicaps. As of Jan. 1, 1999, travelers from associate countries, including the USA and Canada, are also included in this resolution.
The resolution requires permit holders to “display a document that shows the international symbol for persons with disabilities, as well as the name of the holder of the document,” in order to receive reciprocal parking privileges in ECMT countries. And most European countries honor this reciprocal agreement.
Accessible parking rules and regulations vary from country to country, but disabledmotorists.eu/en/home/ offers a good overview of the major rules in the different European countries. It also gives a state-by-state over view of the accessible parking regulations in all 50 US states. It’s a great resource to consult before you hit the road.
Barrier-Free Travel Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Ever wonder why some people end up with upgrades and refunds whenever they make a wheelchair-access travel complaint, while others walk away with zero compensation? Truth be told, it’s all in the details. Knowing when to complain, how to complain and who to complain to are the keys to not only resolving the issue at hand, but also to receiving adequate compensation for your inconvenience. So the next time you encounter an access-related problem on the road, follow this roadmap for prompt resolution and adequate compensation.
Save Your Trip
The first and foremost rule about making a wheelchair-access travel complaint is to address the problem at hand. If your wheelchair arrives damaged, request a suitable loaner from the airline. If that supposedly accessible bus arrives but has two steps, request an appropriate replacement. If you arrive at a hotel to find that they gave your accessible room away, have them find you one at another property. Try and remedy the access shortfall, so you can salvage your vacation and enjoy the rest of your trip.
Additionally, you should try to prevent further damage. In other words, don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater. For example, if you miss a connection because the airline didn’t have a wheelchair waiting at the gate for you, don’t just throw in the towel. Work with the airline to get on the next available flight, so you can at least enjoy part of your vacation.
Don’t be afraid to address your loss while you are trying to mitigate damages, but don’t put a dollar price tag on it. For example, in the case of the missed connection, if the next available flight isn’t until late at night, don’t be afraid to point out that you are missing a whole day of vacation because of their error. And then ask if perhaps an upgrade is available. Keep in mind, this doesn’t wipe the slate clean, but it will make your travels more comfortable.
It’s also a good idea to jot down a few notes about the incident while it’s fresh in your mind. Write down times, dates and names if you have them. Then, put the notebook away, and don’t dwell on the incident. Enjoy what’s left of your vacation, then address the matter when you return home.
When You Return Home
The time to file an official wheelchair-access travel complaint with a service provider is after you return from your trip. And although every situation is different, here are some tips to help you approach the official complaint process.
Although it’s easy to pick up the phone, your complaint will receive more attention if you put it in writing.
Address the appropriate person. Don’t start with the President or CEO, but instead begin at the bottom and work your way up. You want to be able to show that you followed the company’s complaint procedure in an effort to resolve your accessibility issue.
Keep your complaint letter short and to the point. It should be no longer than one page. Avoid superfluous details and get to the point quickly.
Keep it polite, professional and G-rated. Abstain from vulgarities and name-calling.
Have someone who isn’t emotionally invested in the incident proofread your letter for clarity.
Never threaten to sue or to file an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) complaint in your initial complaint. This just creates an adversarial situation and makes the matter harder to resolve.
If you are going to quote the law, make sure you know the law.
Make sure and enclose all documentation, including receipts and photos.
Most important, ask for some type of resolution. Don’t be afraid to ask for specific compensation, but be realistic. If you’re reasonable with your request, most companies will be generous in their response.
Make it Official
You should also file an official ADA or Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) complaint when you return home. This can be done in addition to your complaint with the provider, and even if you received compensation from them. This type of a complaint won’t get you anything personally, but it may help effect change.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) look for patterns, and the number of complaints against individual companies. If they see a lot of a certain type of complaint, they can issue fines and directives to help avoid future access-related failures. And that in turn may lead to better compliance in the future.
Plus it’s pretty easy to file an official wheelchair-access travel complaint.
If your issue involves physical access at a hotel, attraction, restaurant, outdoor area or venue in the United States, then you can file an ADA complaint. Information about an ADA complaint can be found at www.ada.gov/file-a-complaint. And the online form is located at civilrights.justice.gov/report.
Filing an official complaint is the final step in the process. And again, although it won’t benefit you personally, it can help to make the world a more accessible place.
Barrier-Free Travel 22 Accessible Road Trips for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Road trips take a lot of planning. From plotting out the most scenic route, to finding quirky roadside attractions and unique lodging options, the devil is definitely in the details. And although everyone should plan for emergency situations, wheelchair-users and slow walkers need to take extra care in the planning process, to make sure they don’t end up stranded on the road. With that in mind, here are some helpful resources and tips to help you plan a successful wheelchair-accessible road trip.
Plan for Emergencies
Emergency road service is essential for any road trip, but very few towing companies have wheelchair-accessible tow trucks. Enter Mobility Roadside Assistance (mobilityroadsideassistance.com). Not only does this company provide all the standard auto club services; but if your vehicle needs to be towed they will also dispatch an accessible vehicle to transport you to the garage. Additionally, they can even dispatch a technician to repair your ramp, lift, wheelchair or scooter.
If you drive an adapted vehicle, consider what you would do if you had problems with your ramp, lift or hand controls. The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (nmeda.org) has a great database of dealers that are qualified to work on adapted vehicles. Check out their website before you travel to find repair shops along your route.
Know Your Resources
Many states are part of the 511 network that provides updated information on traffic conditions. Find out if this service is available along your route (ops.fhwa.dot.gov/511/).
Most national parks also have updated road closure information on their websites, and many even have dedicated traffic information phone numbers. These updates usually have the most recent information as they are maintained by in-park personnel.
Look to newer fast food restaurants for the best accessible restrooms. Most fast food restaurants are consistent in their restroom design; so find a chain that has the access features you need, and stick with it.
If your hotel bathroom isn’t as accessible as you expected on your wheelchair-accessible road trip, stop by a Pilot-Flying J truck stop (pilotflyingj.com). Most have accessible shower rooms with roll-in showers; and although there is a charge to use them, it’s a good alternative in a pinch.
Pack Along These Essentials
Pack along a can of Fix-A-Flat tire inflator. It’s a quick and easy way to repair a flat, and it beats waiting for the tow truck.
Duct tape is also a glove box essential. Not only can it provide a temporary fix for a leaky radiator hose, but it also comes in handy for on-the-spot wheelchair repairs.
A wheelchair repair kit is also essential when you hit the road. And if you need a repair to your wheelchair tire, head to the nearest bicycle shop.
Don’t forget to take your accessible parking placard with you when you hit the road, as it’s valid throughout the US, except in some places in New York City. Additionally, it’s a good idea to consult the FIA World Parking Guide (disabledmotorists.eu/en/home/) for disabled parking regulations in different states.
Finally, don’t forget to pack your sense of humor on your wheelchair-accessible road trip. Be flexible and don’t stress out if things don’t go exactly the way you planned them. After all, travel is all about experiencing new things.
Barrier-Free Travel 22 Accessible Road Trips for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Recently I flew to Los Angeles, and although the hotel I stayed at had a free airport shuttle, it was not wheelchair-accessible. I asked the driver and he said that they didn’t have any wheelchair-accessible airport shuttles, and that I should take a taxi or an Uber. It seemed a bit unfair for me to have to pay for transfers, while others got them for free. Are airport shuttles required to be wheelchair-accessible under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)? If so, what can I do if I encounter one that lacks wheelchair access?
The ADA and Wheelchair-Accessible Airport Shuttles
In a word, yes. If a hotel provides free shuttle service it’s also required to provide an equivalent accessible service under Title III of the ADA (ada.gov/topics/title-iii/). Equivalent is the key word here, so for example if passengers routinely wait 20 minutes for an airport shuttle, then wheelchair-accessible airport shuttles must arrive in the same time frame.
That doesn’t mean that hotels have to own their own shuttles though. They just have to provide the equivalent service. For example, a small hotel can share an accessible shuttle with other properties, but they must offer equivalent service as detailed above. Properties can also opt to send accessible taxis to pick up passengers, instead of purchasing and maintaining wheelchair-accessible airport shuttles. And finally they can alternately opt to reimburse guests for their accessible taxi or Uber fares.
When Things Go Wrong
Although equivalent service means that disabled guests will get the same service as non-disabled guests, a little advance planning can go a long way to making this a reality. First and foremost, don’t wait until you arrive at the airport to inquire about the availability of wheelchair-accessible hotel shuttles. Call the hotel in advance of your trip to confirm that they have the appropriate vehicles — and that they are actually operational.
If the hotel employee you are talking with says that they don’t have any wheelchair-accessible airport shuttles, then ask to speak to the manager. Usually managers know the law, and after you point out that wheelchair-accessible shuttle service is required under the ADA, then they will start to work to find a solution. Of course this solution may be that the hotels provides an accessible taxi or pays for your Uber, but that’s an acceptable solution under the law.
On the other hand if the manager balks at your request, it’s best to find another property. You can’t strong arm someone into adhering to the law, and you don’t want to arrive at the airport only to find out that there’s no way to get to your hotel. Give your money to a property that does follow the law and will be able to accommodate you.
Of course, don’t forget the property that didn’t accommodate you. They broke the law and they deserve to be reported to the Department of Justice (DOJ). It’s easy to do too — just complete this simple online form (civilrights.justice.gov/report) to file an ADA complaint. You won’t receive any compensation as the result of filing an ADA complaint, but it will help effect change. And that helps make everything more accessible in the long run.
Barrier-Free Travel California National Park Road Trips for Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers
I have a portable dialysis machine that I’ve taken on many road trips, but my next trip requires an airplane flight. Can I take it aboard the aircraft, and can it be carried in the passenger cabin? Will I have to pay an additional baggage fee if I take it with me? Can I also bring my dialysis liquid and supplies with me?
Yes, You Can Fly!
The Air Carrier Access Act requires airlines to permit disabled passengers to bring assistive devices aboard the aircraft, provided they comply with applicable safety, security and hazardous materials rules. A portable dialysis machine is considered an assistive device, so yes, the airlines will usually transport it. Contact you airline well in advance of your flight to find out what documentation is required, and for instructions on how to pack your equipment.
Your portable dialysis machine will be given priority over all other passenger baggage brought into the cabin, provided you preboard the aircraft. If it cannot be accommodated in the passenger cabin (due to size or other issues) it will be transported in the baggage compartment. Since it is considered an assistive device, it will not be counted against your baggage allowance, and you will not be charged for it. And if you run into problems, ask to speak to the CRO (emerginghorizons.com/flying-with-a-wheelchair-remember-the-cro).
All of the above is dependent on the size of your machine. Airlines are not required to transport larger machines, as it would be considered an undue burden to them. Although that determination is made on a case-by-case basis, the Department of Transportation (DOT) feels that dialysis machines that weigh 100 pounds or slightly more (including the case) are of a reasonable size to transport in the baggage compartment.
Dialysis supplies are also included in the assistive device category, however the DOT considers a large supply to be an undue burden to the airlines. The DOT believes that it is reasonable for airlines to limit the quantity of dialysis liquid carried to a one-day or two-day supply. So you may have to plan ahead and ask your supplier if you can have your supplies shipped directly to your hotel or vacation home.
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Barrier-Free Travel California National Park Road Trips for Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers
I use a power wheelchair and I am going apply for my first passport this year. I have been told by the passport office that my wheelchair cannot be in my passport photo. Why can’t my wheelchair in my passport photo? I can’t walk at all, so my wheelchair will be with me when I travel. In fact, I consider my wheelchair an extension of my body. Is this true or can my wheelchair be in my passport photo? And if it can’t, how am I suppose to get a passport photo of me without my wheelchair?
I understand that your wheelchair is an extension of your body, but unfortunately the headrest can be a problem for passport photos. Most headrests are black, and since the background for passport photos is white, they could potentially interfere with the biometric data that is contained on the RFID microchip on US passports. This biometric information helps to positively identify the holder, and it also makes passports more difficult to forge.
The US has been issuing biometric passports since 2007, and passport photos have been held to stricter standards since then. Basically, passport photos need to offer a clear facial image, with no digital alteration, and they need to be taken on a white or off-white background. Glasses, hats or anything that obstructs the face are generally not allowed. If capturing a clear facial image is not possible due to contractures or spasms, an exception could be made with a doctor’s note. There is also a place on the application where you can describe your disability if it effects photo standards.
If you are doing your passport photograph at home, the best thing to do is to drape a white towel over the headrest so it will blend in to the white background. But remember, your facial features must be clearly visible. If they aren’t, the passport agency will reject your passport photo.
Alternatively, you can have your photo taken at a passport agency. They will put a white sheet over the back of your wheelchair, as will other businesses that take passport photos. The advantage to getting the photo taken at a passport agency, is that you know it will be done correctly. To find a passport agency that takes photos (not all do), visit iafdb.travel.state.gov/ and type in your search parameters. You can also search for wheelchair-accessible locations at that site.
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Barrier-Free Travel Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks for Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers
I know you’ve visited a lot of places, and I wondering what you think the most accessible destination for wheelchair-users and slow walker is. And why.
I’ve been covering accessible travel for nearly 30 years, and I’ve certainly seen some great examples of accessibility; including many places which go above and beyond the letter of the law.
Las Vegas (www.lvcva.com) tops my most accessible destination for wheelchair-users and slow walkers list. They truly have made it accessible to everyone. You can easily hail an accessible taxi at the airport, the monorail is accessible, and many hotels have wheelchairs or scooters for loan. Many properties have more than the minimum number of accessible rooms, and some hotels even have ceiling track lifts, (which are not required under the law.)
San Diego Marina
I also love San Diego (www.sandiego.org). Not only does it have the perfect climate year round, but there are free loaner power beach wheelchairs at many beaches. This is important because standard beach wheelchairs are heavy and awkward to push, while the power beach wheelchairs offer wheelchair-users independent access to the beach.
Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park
And of course I love the US National Parks; in fact I’ve written many books about them. People with a disability can get a lifetime pass that’s good for free admission to all the national parks, and most of them have accessible trails, lodging and facilities. A National Park road trip is a good choice as you can easily pack along all your medical equipment, and take things at your own pace.
Cruise ship in Curacao
Of course cruises are also a popular choice for wheelchair-users and slow walkers. That said, before you pick a cruise, make sure that accessible shore excursions are available at your ports of call. Additionally, check to see if any of the ports are tender ports, as most tenders cannot accommodate wheelchair-users.
Houses of Parliament, London, England
Overseas, I like London, as all London Black Cabs are required to be wheelchair-accessible. Visit London Taxi Tours (www.visitlondontaxitours.com) even offers a wide variety of wheelchair-accessible tours. The tours are conducted in new London Black Cabs that are equipped with ramps, and each tour includes a knowledgeable local driver and guide.
Hope that helps. Accessibility is really improving worldwide, and wheelchair-users and slow walkers have many more choices today than they did 20 years ago. And I can imagine it will be even better 20 years from now.
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Barrier-Free Travel National Park Lodges for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
What is a European Disability Card and How Can I Get One?
I was reading about a new European Disability Card that offers free admission to museums and other discounts for disabled people. I live in the US but plan to travel to Europe next year. Can you tell me more about this card and give me details on how I can get one?
European Disability Card History
The European Disability Card has been in the news a lot lately, as the European Commission is moving forward with a proposal to create a disability card that is valid throughout the European Union. It’s still a work in progress, but here’s a little history on the project. The European Disability Card was first introduced in 2015. This card, which serves as proof of disability, grants cardholders free or reduced fares on public transport, as well as discounted admission to select cultural events, museums, amusement parks and other attractions. It is currently available in seven European Union countries — Malta, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, Italy, Slovenia and Romania. It is issued by national authorities and is recognized in the other countries that have a European Disability Card.
Fast forward to 2023. The European Commission introduced a proposal to create a European Disability Card that would be recognized in all European Union countries. This card will be issued by national authorities and will compliment any existing national cards or certificates. This proposal builds on the initial disability card pilot project that was introduced in 2015. A copy of the proposal can be found at:
In mid-2024 this proposal will be discussed by the European Union Council and the European Parliament. And once adopted it’s estimated that the government will call for the implementation of the national disability card within 2.5 years. So best estimate is that they will be available near the end of 2026 or the beginning of 2027. And of course if more discussion and changes are required, that time line will be extended. These cards will only be available to European Union residents, so they are not an option for Americans who travel to Europe.
Although policies vary throughout the European Union, most museums and attractions will offer their “disability discount” to people with a visible disability — meaning people who use a wheelchair, scooter or other mobility device. That said, some places are sticklers for the rules and require official proof of disability. Many folks have reported success with showing their accessible parking placard, but the US doesn’t have an official “national disability card”. Check with your state to see if they have some sort of certification available. And if they don’t, you may want to ask your doctor for a note certifying the degree of your disability for travel purposes. Keep in mind that this certification is not required for you to travel, but it may give you access to more discounts. For more information on the status of the European Disability Card project, visit ec.europa.eu/social/main.jsp?catId=1139
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Barrier-Free Travel Utah National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Ever wonder why some people end up with upgrades and refunds whenever they make a wheelchair-access travel complaint, while others walk away with zero compensation? Truth be told, it’s all in the details. Knowing when to complain, how to complain and who to complain to are the keys to not only resolving the issue at hand, but also to receiving adequate compensation for your inconvenience. So the next time you encounter an access-related problem on the road, follow this roadmap for prompt resolution and adequate compensation.
Las Vegas (
