Motorbility and mobility for disability needs. Cars and conversions, equipment and Motorbility accessories

Part 3 of the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA) gives disabled people rights of access in relation to motoring, transport and travel infrastructure (railway stations, airports and travel agents, for example).

Transport vehicles are covered by separate provisions in the DDA and accessibility regulations have been introduced to improve the accessibility of buses and coaches and trains. A similar package for taxis is being developed.

The DDA also means that you have a right to information about transport (timetables, for example) in a format that is accessible to you where it is reasonable for the transport provider to provide it in that format.

The Disability Rights Commission (DRC) can provide advice and support to help you secure your civil rights if you feel you are being discriminated against.

Buses and coaches

From 31 December 2000, new buses and coaches used on local and scheduled services, with more than 22 passengers, have had to comply with Public Service Vehicles Accessibility Regulations.

Public Service Vehicles Accessibility Regulations (opens new window)

Under the Transport Act 2000 local authorities are required to offer a free pass that entitles certain disabled people to a minimum 50 per cent concession on local bus services.

The Transport Act (opens new window)

Taxis

The DDA places a duty on licensed taxi drivers in England and Wales to carry guide, hearing and other prescribed assistance dogs in their taxis, and to do so without charge. Similar duties for private hire vehicles (minicabs) came into force from 31 March 2004.

Trains

Since 31 December 1998, all new rail vehicles have had to meet Rail Vehicle Accessibility Regulations.

The Strategic Rail Authority has a duty to publish a Code of Practice on meeting the needs of disabled passengers. Train and Station Services for Disabled People - A code of practice was published in February 2002.

Strategic Rail Authority website (opens new window)

Motoring

Learning to drive

The minimum age for driving cars is 17, however if you are currently getting Disability Living Allowance at the higher rate (mobility component), the minimum age for driving is 16.

Insurance

Under the Disability Discrimination Act 1995, insurers can only charge disabled people higher premiums if the extra charge is based on factual or statistical data, or there are other relevant factors which indicate that a disabled person is a higher risk.

Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee

The Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee (DPTAC) was established as an independent body to advise Government on the transport needs of all disabled people across the UK. DPTAC also advise on the barriers faced by disabled people created by the design management and operation of buildings, streets and open space and how these might be overcome.

Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee (opens new window)

Help and advice from the Disability Rights Commission

The Disability Rights Commission (DRC) is a good source of advice if you feel you may have been discriminated against by a service provider. The DRC helpline provides advice and information about the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 to disabled people, employers, service providers, schools and colleges, and friends and families of disabled people.

Telephone: 08457 622 633

Textphone: 08457 622 644

Fax: 08457 778 878

Lines are open 8.00 am to 8.00 pm (Monday to Friday)