Disability advocates are urging the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission to retain the Accessible Dispatch program, warning that shifting to e-hail apps could diminish the quality of service for disabled riders.
Disability groups in New York City are pushing back against the Taxi and Limousine Commission's ( TLC ) plan to replace the Accessible Dispatch program with a system relying on e-hail apps. They argue that the current single-vendor program provides a vital lifeline for disabled riders, ensuring reliable access to wheelchair-accessible cabs through a dedicated point of contact.
Advocates fear that shifting to multiple e-hail providers like Arro, Curb, and Myle will lead to a fragmented and less reliable service. They point to concerns about the apps' ability to consistently meet the needs of disabled riders, particularly those who may not have smartphones or struggle with app navigation. The groups highlight issues such as difficulty reaching customer support, inaccurate vehicle dispatch, and a lack of understanding regarding specific accessibility requirements.While the TLC claims the new program will expand accessibility options and redirect $6 million in operating costs to finance more accessible taxis, disability advocates remain skeptical. They argue that the savings wouldn't be sufficient to meet the city's growing demand for wheelchair-accessible transportation. They also emphasize that the current Accessible Dispatch program is highly effective, with a user-friendly interface and dedicated dispatchers who understand the unique needs of disabled riders. They urge the TLC to maintain the existing program, emphasizing that 'don't fix what isn't broken.' The TLC maintains that the new program will require e-hail apps to offer phone-based dispatch services, addressing concerns about app accessibility. However, advocates remain unconvinced, citing previous negative experiences with vendor phone lines and expressing doubts about the apps' capacity to provide the same level of reliable and personalized service as the current Accessible Dispatch program
NEW YORK CITY TAXI DISABILITY RIGHTS ACCESSIBLE TRANSPORTATION E-HAIL APPS TLC DISABLED RIDERS ADVOCACY
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