A class-action lawsuit filed against Uber and Lyft in British Columbia draws attention to the experiences of wheelchair users.
For wheelchair users, travelling by using ride-hailing apps, like Uber and Lyft, can be complicated. On March 20, a class action was announced against Uber and Lyft in British Columbia for allegedly not providing service to a wheelchair user. One of the goals of the class action is to bring about systemic change to the companies’ practices.
Usable transportation Accessibility issues related to wheelchair use are not about whether the apps are usable. They are also not about whether the apps provide information on accessible routes. Rather, they are about whether the actual transportation service hailed through them is usable. The majority of the survey respondents who reported they were not Uber and Lyft customers used fixed-frame wheelchairs.
Unavailabilities and shortages Previously, the companies’ responses to allegations of discrimination against wheelchair users in the U.S. have been that they are technology companies — rather than transportation companies — that connect riders and drivers.This configuration means that they do not own a fleet of vehicles but rely on cars that drivers bring. As such, they are not obligated to provide WAVs. In Washington, D.C.
Supply and regulations The companies say that in the cities where they do not operate WAV services, there is not enough supply of WAVs. Disability advocates disagree, saying that the lack of WAV services has to do with the lack of disability regulations in those areas.
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