Mobility & Transport
Mobility means getting from point A to point B. Often a disability puts restrictions on this mobility. Through ever changing technical developments and advances, the participation of disabled people in private and public transport is becoming increasingly possible. Disabled-access vehicles are not only practical; they can also provide real driving thrills.
It is also important for disabled people to be able to groom their social contacts. Mobility is an important element in making this possible. This mobility is even more important in a self determined life. Doing as one wishes and going wherever, whenever one wishes; independently mobile is the goal.
Driving independently thanks to resourceful minds
There are scores of possibilities in the area of individual transport, especially when it comes to cars. Resourceful minds in several companies, have occupied themselves to find solutions to the many associated problems with disabled access driving. Thanks to these pioneers there now exists technical adjustments for various forms of disabilities, which makes independent driving possible. In the foreground is the practical use of these alterations, the driving experience should also however not fall short for sports and vintage cars.
Motorbikes also belong to the hobby area. It is mainly motorbike enthusiasts with a disability, and a flare for mechanics that take the alteration of motorbikes in hand and bring them to the production phase. In this area things which seem impossible, have been made possible.
Transport, therapy and sport
Those who prefer to proceed without a motor can choose from a large selection of bicycles. There are bicycles and components suitable for many different types of disabilities. Even people with severe physical disabilities can be independently mobile. Such a bicycle can be especially positive for the development of children. The bike can also be used for therapeutic reasons. The bicycle is naturally at its best in the area of leisure and is therefore ideal for family excursions and sports activities.
Public transport
The public transport system is an important part of mobility. The travel conditions are naturally different depending on whether one is travelling by bus, train or with an airplane. Boarding and exiting is not always that easy. Which wheelchair can be loaded without problem? And which travel preparations must someone with a visual impairment make?
With some transport companies a declaration for certain disabilities is necessary and the office concerned must be contacted directly. Modern technology is also of further assistance. The important information and contacts for a good travel preparation are available on the internet. In this way the trip or tour can be carried out easily and without stress in ones own home.
Text: hia - Sep. 2007, translation PmcC - MyH
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