At Clocktower Cars we provide excellent Wheelchair Accessible Taxis service in all over the surrey(England) , we understand that taxis can serve as an effective means of accessible transportation for people with disabilities, contingent on the availability of local services. This guide explores key considerations when searching for accessible taxis, including ride-share options.

To ensure you find transportation that meets your requirements. Clocktower Cars is dedicated to providing accessible transport solutions tailored to your needs.

What are Accessible Taxis?

Accessible taxis are specially adapted vehicles designed for wheelchair users. Typically, these are larger vehicles like vans with ramps or lifts to safely secure wheelchairs, luggage, and passengers. These modifications ensure that wheelchair users can remain in their chairs during the ride, providing a higher level of convenience and safety. The design of these vehicles often includes spacious interiors and appropriate anchor points to secure the wheelchair firmly in place.

Many drivers assist with transfers and luggage storage, although this assistance is not always guaranteed. It’s advisable to communicate your needs clearly when booking to ensure the driver can accommodate you. At Clocktower Cars, we ensure that our drivers are trained to provide this level of assistance whenever possible. Taxis can be an ideal choice for quicker rides, especially in larger cities where accessible public transportation might be limited or less convenient.

ADA Taxi Requirements

According to the American with Disabilities Act (ADA), private transportation entities, including taxis, are not required to purchase accessible automobiles. However, if they purchase a non-automobile vehicle, it must be accessible unless they can demonstrate that they provide an equivalent service. An example of equivalent service is another accessible vehicle providing the same travel points for the same cost and time frame as a regular trip.

This means that while not all taxis need to be accessible, there must be provisions in place to offer an equivalent level of service to individuals with disabilities. One of the downsides to this is that the availability of accessible vehicles may be more limited compared to standard taxis, so planning ahead is crucial. Clocktower Cars maintains a fleet of accessible vehicles to ensure availability for those who need them.

Assistance and Price

Taxi services are prohibited from discriminating against individuals with disabilities. This includes the obligation to assist with stowing wheelchairs or mobility devices within the vehicle and ensuring they are securely fastened. Additionally, drivers should assist with entering and exiting the vehicle as needed.

An important consideration for wheelchair users is the cost of using a wheelchair taxi. Fortunately, in the United States, standard rates apply to wheelchair taxis; taxi drivers cannot charge extra for transporting individuals with disabilities. This ensures that accessible transportation remains affordable and equitable. Clocktower Cars adheres to these standards, providing affordable rides without extra charges for wheelchair users.

How to Verify the Accessibility of Taxis

Ensuring that a taxi service can meet your accessibility needs requires some advance planning. Here are the steps you can follow to verify the accessibility of taxis:

1. Contact the Taxi Company: The first step is to contact the taxi company directly. You can call or email them and inquire about their accessible taxi options. Make sure to specify your needs clearly, such as the type of wheelchair you use, whether you require a ramp or lift, and any other specific requirements.
2. Check the Taxi Company’s Website: Many taxi companies have websites that detail their services, including accessible options. Look for sections on accessibility or wheelchair-accessible taxis. Some companies may even include photos of their accessible vehicles, which can give you a better idea of what to expect. Clocktower Cars provides detailed information and images of our accessible vehicles on our website.
3. Online Reviews: Reading online reviews from other customers can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of a taxi service. Look for reviews that specifically mention wheelchair accessibility and the quality of service provided to individuals with disabilities. Online groups and forums focused on accessible travel can also be great resources for recommendations and advice.

Wheelchair Accessible Taxi (WAT) Services

Wheelchair Accessible Taxis (WATs) are designed to provide safe and reliable transportation for individuals who use wheelchairs or mobility scooters. Here are some key features and regulations regarding WAT services:

1. Vehicle Modifications: WATs are modified to safely accommodate at least one and up to three wheelchairs. These modifications include ramps or lifts for easy boarding and secure anchor points to keep wheelchairs in place during transit.
2. Driver Training: Providers of WAT services are required to ensure that their drivers are competent in the safe loading, restraint, carriage, and unloading of wheelchair users. This includes understanding how to operate the vehicle’s accessibility features and how to secure wheelchairs properly. Clocktower Cars ensures that our drivers are well-trained to meet these standards.
3. Taxi Transport Subsidy Scheme (TTSS): In New South Wales (NSW), residents with severe, permanent disabilities who rely on WATs may qualify for the TTSS. This scheme subsidizes the travel costs of participants, allowing them to travel by taxi at half fare. The current maximum subsidy that can be claimed is $60.
4. TTSS Docket Changes: From 1 November 2017, taxi drivers are required to complete the TTSS docket using their driver license number instead of their driver authority number. They must also engage and disengage the taxi meter at the start and end of each TTSS trip.
5. Incentive Payment for WAT Drivers: The NSW Government provides an incentive payment to WAT drivers for each wheelchair passenger carried using the TTSS. This payment, which increased from $7.70 to $15 per passenger, is designed to improve the reliability and response times of wheelchair-accessible taxi services.
6. WAT Licences: To support the operation of existing and new WAT services, WAT licences are available free of charge. Annual WAT licences in Sydney can have terms of up to 10 years. This initiative aims to increase the availability of accessible taxis.
7. WAT Loan Scheme: The WAT Loan Scheme provides interest-free loans to assist taxi operators in NSW with placing new and additional WATs into operation. These loans fund the cost of purchasing, modifying, or retrofitting vehicles to make them compliant with accessibility standards.

Clocktower Cars’ Wheelchair Accessible Taxi Features

Clocktower Cars offers a range of features designed to provide safe and reliable transportation for wheelchair users:

• Vehicles: Clocktower Cars’ fleet includes vans with ramps or lifts, designed to accommodate wheelchairs securely. Customers can choose between MAXI or SUV vehicles, depending on their needs.
• Capacity: The vehicles are equipped to transport multiple wheelchairs, making them suitable for group travel.
• Securement: All vehicles are fitted with anchor points to keep wheelchairs and scooters secure during transit.
• Drivers: Clocktower Cars’ drivers are specially trained in the correct procedures for loading and unloading wheelchairs, ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers.

Booking Process

Booking a wheelchair-accessible taxi with Clocktower Cars is straightforward:

• How to Book: Customers can book via phone, app, or website. Providing detailed information about your accessibility needs when booking helps ensure that the appropriate vehicle and assistance are available.
• Notice: Advanced notice is recommended to increase the likelihood of securing an accessible taxi, as availability may vary.

Additional Considerations

When booking a wheelchair-accessible taxi, consider the following:

• Luggage and Additional Passengers: Communicate any needs regarding luggage and additional passengers to ensure that the vehicle can accommodate everything and everyone comfortably.
• Pet-friendly Policies: If you travel with a service animal or pet, check the taxi company’s pet-friendly policies. Clocktower Cars is committed to accommodating all passengers, including those with service animals.

Conclusion

Clocktower Cars is dedicated to providing accessible transportation for all, ensuring freedom and independence for wheelchair users, reliable transportation for appointments, shopping, or social outings, and peace of mind for caregivers. By ensuring our vehicles are well-equipped and our drivers are thoroughly trained, Clocktower Cars aims to provide a high level of service and safety for all passengers. Clocktower cars Provide Execellent Wheelchair Accessible Taxi in Godalming, Wheelchair Accessible Taxi in North Cheam, Wheelchair Accessible Taxi in Epsom, Wheelchair Accessible Minicab in Banstead, Wheelchair Accessible Minicab in Ewell West, Wheelchair Accessible Minicab in Reigate and in All over the surrey.