Massachusetts grills Uber and Lyft over disability access

[jar546]

by Jon Fingas | @jonfingashttp://www.engadget.com/2014/06/27/uber-lyft-explainer/

Ridesharing outfits make some effort to accommodate disabled passengers, but Massachusetts isn't sure that they go far enough. Reuters has learned that the state's Attorney General is grilling Uber and Lyft over the levels of disability access they provide. There aren't any official actions under way, but this is the first time that any US attorney general's office has given accessibility a look. That's bound to make the two companies nervous when both of them are facing lawsuits over their support for guide dogs and wheelchairs.

For its part, Uber says it both talks to lawmakers about accessibility and has a team "dedicated" to improving access. If Massachusetts presses for changes, there's a real chance that it'll get at least some concessions rather than face a legal battle. With that said, ridesharing companies have historically resisted measures that potentially hike their costs -- we wouldn't rule out some pushback if they believe the state is taking things too far.

Original article found here:

http://www.engadget.com/2015/07/19/massachusetts-grills-uber-and-lyft-over-disability-access/

 

[mark handler]

Uber faces $7.3M fine or California suspension over accessibility and other issues

http://money.cnn.com/2015/07/16/technology/uber-california-regulatory-reports/

It did not turn over raw numbers of customers requesting accessible vehicles (for instance, those who had service animals or needed wheelchair-accessible vehicles). It also didn't share its ability to comply with these requests, according to a CPUC document filed Wednesday.

More on link above

 

[cda]

so taxi companies have to provide so many handicapp vehicles???

How about limo companies???

 

[ADAguy]

I Like where this may lead (smiling)

 

[mjesse]

New York City actually mandates which vehicle make a taxi has to be. 13,000 Nissan vehicles IIRC, 100% accessible

 

[mtlogcabin]

I Like where this may lead (smiling)

Why...........................

 

[ADAguy]

Increases access for tourists as well as locals. More taxable revenue generated.