Reach Out and Speak Up
For people with disabilities, transportation isn’t just a convenience, it’s a necessity without which we cannot live independently or fully participate in our communities.
We can, and must, do better when it comes to accessible transportation. Transportation barriers can severely degrade quality of life and limit opportunities. Let your elected representatives know what is on your mind regarding accessible transportation for people with disabilities in Michigan.
The Cost of Inaccessible Transportation
In addition to the unacceptable toll on people with disabilities personally, a lack of accessible transportation has broad economic implications that cost everyone.
Income Inequality
Studies examined by the Urban Institute found that a “lack of transit access is “a key barrier to employment” that “can limit physical mobility as well as economic mobility, which can contribute to income inequality” and increase the “likelihood of a household being on public assistance.”
Impact On Employment
A 2021 report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicated that among individuals with disabilities who were not employed, 10.3% identified a lack of transportation as a barrier to employment. In a 2022 study, the National Disability Institute found that accessible autonomous vehicles have the potential to significantly increase employment for people with disabilities. While there has been progress in the area of autonomous vehicles, people with disabilities cannot wait for accessible transportation. We must invest in accessible transportation infrastructure now.
Higher Medical Costs
A study published in the Journal of Community Health found that transportation barriers can cause a person to miss or delay healthcare appointments, which can exacerbate health conditions and lead to more severe medical issues that cost much more to treat. Furthermore, the American Hospital Association reports that, in the U.S., millions of people forgo medical care due to transportation issues, contributing to increased emergency department visits and hospital admissions. Addressing transportation accessibility is crucial to reducing medical costs and improving health outcomes for people with disabilities. Implementing policies that enhance transportation options can lead to better health management and reduced overall healthcare expenditures.
Increased Transportation Expenses
People with disabilities often face higher transportation costs. For people with disabilities who are able to operate a vehicle, a major expense is modification. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the cost of a new vehicle modified with adaptive equipment could cost as much as $80,000. If modifying an existing vehicle, installing adaptive devices such as hand controls, assistance straps, and seatbelt adjustments can cost hundreds of dollars while installing a wheelchair or scooter ramp can cost tens of thousands. This is on top of the cost to own and maintain said vehicle.
Transportation costs while traveling are another financial burden. According to travel blogger John Morris of Wheelchair Travel, people with disabilities often face higher transportation costs due to the need for specialized services. “Where a taxi or Uber might cost nondisabled people $20, non-emergency medical transportation companies could charge ten times that,” Morris writes, calling it a “disability surcharge.” This substantial disparity highlights the financial strain caused by the lack of accessible and affordable transportation options.
Transportation Independent Living Resources and Agencies
For help navigating resources, get in touch with your local Center for Independent Living using Disability Network Michigan’s Directory of Michigan Centers for Independent Living.