Affiliations: Virginia Commonwealth University, Rehabilitation
Research and Training Center, Richmond, VA, USA | Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation,
Medical College of Virginia, VA, USA
Note: [] VCU-RRTC, 1314 West Main Street, P.O.Box 842011, Richmond, VA
842011, USA. Tel.: +1 804 828 1851; Fax: +1 804 828 2193
Abstract: Affordable, reliable transportation options are critical to
successful community reintegration for individuals with spinal cord injuries
(SCI). Lack of access to these options can significantly impact one's
capability to gain and maintain employment, access medical and other essential
community-based supports and services, and participate in social and
recreational activities. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), as well as
a variety of other federal, state and local legislation has systematically
addressed the spectrum of accessibility issues regarding both public and
private sector transportation. For the most part however, individuals with SCI
and other disabilities continue to report limited transportation options as a
primary barrier to full reintegration back into their homes, schools and
communities. With this in mind, regional disability advocacy organizations,
social service agencies, and vocational and employment service professionals
have taken a more active role in designing and implementing innovative programs
and creative options to assist individuals with SCI in overcoming the
transportation-related barriers that interfere with community mobility. This
article provides (1) an overview of the ADA as it pertains to transportation,
(2) options available to assist individuals with SCI to overcome barriers to
community mobility, (3) strategies of facilitating regional systems change, and
(4) a list of national advocacy organizations and transportation resources.
Keywords: transportation, community reintegration, spinal cord injuries
