Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Communications & Accessibility
Telephone companies provide relay operators (dial 711) for those who are hearing im-
paired.
Most traffic intersections have dropped curbs and sometimes audible crossing signals.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires public buildings built after 1993 to be
wheelchair-accessible, including restrooms.
Motels and hotels built after 1993 must have at least one ADA-compliant accessible
room; state your specific needs when making reservations.
For nonpublic buildings built prior to 1993, including hotels, restaurants, museums and
theaters, there are no accessibility guarantees; call ahead to find out what to expect.
Most national and many state parks and some other outdoor recreation areas offer paved
or boardwalk nature trails that are wheelchair-accessible.
Many theme parks go out of their way to be accessible to wheelchairs and guests with
mobility limitations and other disabilities.
Transportation
All major airlines, Greyhound buses and Amtrak trains can accommodate travelers with
disabilities, usually with 48 hours advance notice required.
Major car-rental agencies offer hand-controlled vehicles and vans with wheelchair lifts at
no extra charge, but you must reserve these well in advance.
For wheelchair-accessible van rentals, try
Wheelchair Getaways
(
800-642-2042;
877-275-4915;
www.mobilityworks.com
)
in LA and the San Francisco Bay Area.
Local buses, trains and subway lines usually have wheelchair lifts.
Seeing-eye dogs can accompany passengers on public transportation.
Taxi companies have at least one wheelchair-accessible van, but you'll usually need to
call for one and then wait a while.
Resources
A Wheelchair Rider's Guide to the California Coast
(
www.wheelingcalscoast.org
)
Free
accessibility information covering beaches, parks and trails, plus downloadable PDF guides
to the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles and Orange County coasts.
