A B.C. class action may prompt Uber and Lyft to ensure accessible services for wheelchair users

Accessibility Issues in Ride-Hailing Apps for Wheelchair Users

On March 20, a class action was announced against Uber and Lyft in British Columbia for allegedly not providing service to a wheelchair user. The goal of the class action is to bring about systemic change to the companies’ practices. Similar lawsuits have been filed in the United States, with outcomes ranging from payments to riders who were denied service to rulings attempting to bring about systemic changes.

Usable transportation

Accessibility issues related to wheelchair use in ride-hailing apps are not about the usability of the apps themselves or the provision of information on accessible routes. Instead, they are about whether the actual transportation service hailed through these apps is usable.

Wheelchairs and vehicles

The type of wheelchair a rider uses affects their access to ride-hailing services. Riders with foldable wheelchairs have better odds of using these services successfully because their wheelchairs can be folded and stowed in most vehicles. On the other hand, riders who need to remain seated in a wheelchair during travel or use fixed-frame wheelchairs have lower odds of success. They can only travel in wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs), which are not as commonly available on these apps as regular four-door sedans. This can result in long wait times or no service at all.

Unavailabilities and shortages

Ride-hailing companies argue that they are technology companies connecting riders and drivers, and therefore not obligated to provide WAVs. They rely on cars that drivers bring and have formed partnerships with third-party transportation companies to offer WAV services in select cities. However, these services are not available in many other cities, and wheelchair users are often directed to local taxis or paratransit services. This is not considered equivalent to the service offered to non-disabled travelers.

Supply and regulations

The companies claim that in cities where they do not operate WAV services, there is not enough supply of WAVs. Disability advocates argue that the lack of WAV services is due to the lack of disability regulations in those areas. WAVs are more expensive to purchase, insure, run, and maintain than regular cars used for basic service level, making it less financially attractive for drivers to invest in them. Additionally, accessibility modifications to WAVs are unique to each user and may not be suitable for all.

Providing accessible services

While an overhaul of the existing configuration may not be possible in the short term, changes to the companies’ business model or current disability accommodation practices may be inevitable. Wheelchair users see promise in a convenient, on-demand transportation service hailed through these apps and continue to advocate for services that meet their needs. The companies can meet them halfway or face potential court-mandated changes in the future.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

   • Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.
   • Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50 percent of median income, by age, sex, and disability.

2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

   • Target 11.2: By 2030, provide access to safe, affordable, accessible and sustainable transport systems for all, improving road safety, notably by expanding public transport, with special attention to the needs of those in vulnerable situations, women, children, persons with disabilities and older persons.
   • Indicator 11.2.1: Proportion of population that has convenient access to public transport, by sex, age and persons with disabilities.
   • Indicator 11.2.2: Proportion of population that has convenient access to public transport, by sex, age and persons with disabilities.

3. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

   • Target 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all.
   • Indicator 16.3.1: Proportion of victims of violence in the previous 12 months who reported their victimization to competent authorities or other officially recognized mechanisms.

Analysis

1. The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, and SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. These goals address the need for inclusive and accessible transportation services for people with disabilities, as well as the promotion of equal access to justice.

2. Based on the article’s content, the specific targets that can be identified are:

• Target 10.2: Empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.
• Target 11.2: Provide access to safe, affordable, accessible and sustainable transport systems for all, improving road safety, notably by expanding public transport, with special attention to the needs of those in vulnerable situations, women, children, persons with disabilities and older persons.
• Target 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all.

3. The article mentions or implies indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:

• Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50 percent of median income, by age, sex, and disability.
• Indicator 11.2.1: Proportion of population that has convenient access to public transport, by sex, age and persons with disabilities.
• Indicator 11.2.2: Proportion of population that has convenient access to public transport, by sex, age and persons with disabilities.
• Indicator 16.3.1: Proportion of victims of violence in the previous 12 months who reported their victimization to competent authorities or other officially recognized mechanisms.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

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Source: theconversation.com

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