Your self-directed employment assistant
For many people with a disability transportation can be a huge issue. It can cause much time, money, and hassle to be able to get rides, ask for rides, and find something that is suitable for your needs. To find something that accommodates all your needs whether that is financial or elsewise it will cost you whether it is your time, money, or your physical needs.
I personally never thought about transportation until 2010. I got my license when I turned 16 years old and was able to drive with no adaptations. However, in 2010 I was in a car accident that left with me dystonia (a neurological movement disorder). This means I have involuntary muscle spasms and movements that cause daily pain and making driving an issue. My reaction time is slower and my neck is turned to the right, so I am unable to see fully. For three years, I wasn't able to drive at all. This really impacted my ability to get to work and work in general. My mom ended up retiring to help me out. I got rides from family and friends and ended up paying friends to help me out. A few years later, I got adaptations for my car and able to drive a ten-fifteen mile radius from my house which has given my freedom back.
Sooner or later, I found out a few resources that have been helpful to me. It is a give and take however because I generally find one costs an arm and a leg and other takes time and a toll on the body. Here are a few resources that I have found helpful when I am unable to drive.
Having a disability where transportation is difficult, but there are ways around. I find it a challenge, but encourage you to check out the resources above. Do you have other resources you like to use for transportation? Comment below.
Comment
Thanks for sharing your story and these suggestions! I also didn't know that insurance can sometimes provide transportation services.
Money saving tip! When using Lyft or Uber - is to select the carpool option. This isn't available in all areas I don't believe, but it is a much lower fare, and you still get to where you're going in time. You may just pick up someone else up on the way who is going the same direction. I've chosen this option a few times, and have actually never ended up picking anyone else up and was still able to pay the low fare!
Thanks for sharing Nikki! I had no idea insurance could provide transportation for some. This is an issue where there needs to be more options for people, especially for those who live outside of city areas.
Thank you for sharing your views, Nikki! I echo your feelings about Metro Mobility completely--I always find it to be too bumpy and with a very rigid schedule with little room for spontaneity.
© 2022 Created by Great Lakes ADA Center.
Powered by
You need to be a member of Punch-in to add comments!
Join Punch-in