by Daniel Parker, RDPFS Contributor:
Most apps for public transport as well as rideshare and taxi services are not specifically designed for those with vision impairments, but can be useful.As in other forms of navigation, Apple Maps and Google Maps offer directions to destinations on public transport. The potential drawback is that their interface and the plethora of other features may make it more difficult for a user to discern the layout of transport in their area. This is where dedicated apps provided by local transportation agencies may be more helpful. Examples include this app for the Washington, D.C. metro and bus systems and apps for all New York City area transit available from the MTA. Although these apps may vary in their accessibility, they will generally provide the most accurate and detailed information about their system’s lines and routes. For example, users who commute daily on a specific line can memorize the list or number of stops, so that they know their location at all times. Some areas also have unofficial apps, such as this one for New York City, which has a tutorial specifically for users of the VoiceOver screen reader. The app’s developer, Adamton Apps Ltd., has also produced similar apps for other cities, such as Philadelphia, Chicago, and Seattle. For those who often travel between cities, apps like Citymapper and Transit collect data from various systems into one convenient location for easy reference. Note that Citymapper, at this point, is not fully accessible due to unlabeled buttons; it is listed here for its potential utility, wider coverage than Transit, and for monitoring purposes. Both apps offer subscription services: Citymapper’s removes ads, while Transit’s gives access to lines other than those closest to the user. Many systems have reduced fair programs for people with disabilities, though it may be cumbersome to prove eligibility.
Paratransit, Rideshare, and Taxi Apps
To comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), most areas also have dedicated paratransit, which delivers on-demand, door-to-door services to eligible disabled customers, and/or a reduced fair program. Paratransit examples are New York City’s Access-a-Ride and Washington, D.C.’s MetroAccess Paratransit. Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft are often used by people with vision loss, particularly when public transportation is unavailable or inconvenient. However, many users in the BVI (blind and visually impaired) community have experienced drivers’ frequent refusals to allow guide dogs, despite this being illegal under the ADA and against company policy. Riders are advised to contact the company if and when this occurs. Another app, Curb, allows users to request and pay for taxis in various cities. More information can be found at the above links.
