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Ensuring Safe Journeys: What passengers expect when being transferred into a wheelchair-accessible vehicle

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).

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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>.

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