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Entering a wheelchair-accessible vehicle requires passengers to take specific steps to ensure safety and comfort. Safety is paramount in the transfer process.

Passengers can anticipate the driver will check, for instance, that:

• The passenger is secure in their wheelchair before being transferred
• The passenger is transferred into the vehicle so they are facing forward (it’s usually the best position)
• The passenger is secured with the vehicle’s seatbelt (not just with the wheelchair’s pelvic belt)
• Once transferred, the wheelchair’s brakes have been locked
• The wheelchair is secured by tie-down straps both from the front and the back
• Any headrest is positioned directly behind the passenger’s head
• Any removable parts, such as tray tables, are taken off and stored securely

Passengers should also be aware of the importance of using compliant wheelchairs. Wheelchairs meeting Australian Standard AS/NZS 3696.19 are deemed safe for travel in accessible vehicles. If a wheelchair does not meet these standards, alternative arrangements may be necessary to ensure passenger safety.

Booking a wheelchair-accessible taxi in NSW is made easy through services like ‘Wheelchair Book & Ride‘, catering to passengers’ specific needs. The NSW government offers financial assistance through the Taxi Transport Subsidy Scheme (TTSS).

If you need assistance with transport, feel free to contact Proveda for friendly advice and guidance.

*Transport NSW, ‘Wheelchair Book & Ride,’ accessed April 2024, <https://transportnsw.info/travel-info/ways-to-get-around/taxi-hire-vehicle/wheelchair-book-ride>.

*Service NSW, ‘Book a wheelchair accessible taxi,’ accessed April 2024, <https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/book-a-wheelchair-accessible-taxi>.