11/11/2022
#7 drives me crazy
Increasing the number of elevators and ramps available is a great way to improve accessibility for those who use wheelchairs, but sometimes little things can have a big impact. Potential issues aren't always obvious unless you've experienced them personally, though, so here are 10 simple ways EVERYONE can help make it easier for wheelchair users to get around!
1. Give priority elevator access to those who can't use the stairs.
2. Don't linger in the curb cut on sidewalks - those using wheels need safe and quick access to exit the street.
3. Fold strollers occupying the accessible area on a bus/subway if someone using a wheelchair needs that space.
4. Don't park in front of sidewalk curb cuts in parking lots (or block them when driving in heavy traffic.)
5. Don't park in the stripes of an accessible parking spot. Wheelchair users need that space to exit/enter their vehicle.
6. Don't park in the handicapped spot unless you have a valid tag AND the person who owns the tag is planning to exit/enter the vehicle.
7. Realize that many times wheelchair users can't access plane lavatories at all, so we may need that airport stall quickly after deplaning! If there is only one accessible stall in a restroom and other stalls are open, don't use the accessible stall. I can't count the number of times I've had to wait 15+ minutes for someone to walk (very easily) out of the only accessible stall in an otherwise empty restroom... If it's the only stall open and things are busy, be quick!
8. Don't assume that someone using a wheelchair isn't waiting in line just like everyone else. So many people will just barge in front like we're not even there...
9. Shovel your sidewalk when it snows, and don't dump snow at the end of the curb cut.
10. Trim bushes back so they don’t extend over the sidewalk, cut back grasses or other plants so they don’t narrow the path, and clean up debris like sticks on the sidewalk.
📸(before text addition): Clark Hodgin
