Arthur is a person who uses a mobility scooter and has low vision. For years, Arthur relied on the local paratransit service to access his community. However, Arthur was told that he no longer qualified because he was “capable of riding the fixed route bus, and use of a scooter was not appropriate for paratransit.” Arthur explained to the transit agency that the sidewalk connecting his home to the nearest bus stop was in disrepair and lacked a curb ramp, making it unsafe and unusable.

Arthur contacted his regional Americans with Disabilities (ADA) Center for guidance. An ADA Specialist explained Arthur’s rights under Title II and the requirement for accessible pedestrian routes and program access for local government services. The ADA Specialist also shared guidance confirming that mobility scooters are a protected mobility device under the ADA.

Using this information, Arthur followed up with the local transit agency. Because Arthur met the eligibility category of not being able to reach the fixed route transit stop due to the inaccessible sidewalk and his disabilities, the agency reinstated his eligibility for paratransit service.

Thanks to the ADA and the support of his regional ADA Center, Arthur regained access to the transportation he depends on.