road information

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.
• Get your America the Beautiful Pass (emerginghorizons.com/how-to-get-a-lifetime-national-park-pass/), as it’s good for free admission to national parks and monuments across America.
• 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.