[Blindtlk] Paratransit Vs. fixed Routes

[Roberthansen1970@gmail.com]

I think in smaller cities they should let everybody use it. Paratransit can be more efficient in smaller places.  
-----Original Message-----
Date: Tuesday, May 10, 2011 9:08:28 am
To: "Blind Talk Mailing List" <blindtlk at nfbnet.org>
From: "David Evans" <drevans at bellsouth.net>
Subject: Re: [Blindtlk] Paratransit Vs. fixed Routes


Dear Dianne,

There is very little choice in the use of Para-transit.
This is because you must go through an eligibility process, fill out and 
application and maybe even face a functional assessment to be allowed to use 
Para-transit service.  Being Blind is not a reason just by itself.  You must 
have other disabilities, in addition to Blindness, in order to use 
Para-transit.
Some of these "conditions" could be, but not limited to, the inability to 
navigate the system, fixed route that is
Other medical or physical conditions that limit one's ability to walk or 
stand for at least 30 minutes, heart conditions, high or low blood pressure 
issues, dizziness, fainting spells, disorientation, vertigo, seizures, sun 
light sensitivity and the list goes on and on.
Just being Blind will not get you on the van instead of the fixed route bus. 
No one needs to qualify to ride the fixed route bus.
The fare for riding on Para-transit is usually double what the fixed route 
fare is, even thou the ride times can be the same.
You have less flexibility with the Para-transit as you are locked into a 
pick up window and can not change on the same day.  Fixed route lets you be 
able to change your mind or plans so you can leave earlier or stay later or 
add other trips on the spur of the moment.  You can not do this with 
Para-transit.
With Para-transit, you need to be prepared in case your ride does not show 
up on time or something happens to the vehicle before it gets there to pick 
you up.  If they take you somewhere, they do have the obligation to come 
back and take you home again.
I tell all my Para-transit consumers, to carry a cell phone with the 
Para-transit phone number programmed into the phone and call if you are at 
the end of your 30 minute window and ask where your vehicle is.  Always plan 
your trip in case you need to wait somewhere for the late vehicle.  Don't 
wait outside if you can help it and always be aware of the weather and the 
area you may have to wait in.  Pick some place that is safe, lighted and 
near other people if you can.
The inability to cross major busy streets and highways may or may not be a 
good enough reason to get you onto Para-transit.  I know that this a common 
fear that many Blind people have, but fear of crossing busy streets is not , 
by itself a qualifier to get on the van.  This is an issue that can be 
addressed with travel training and by asking that there be traffic control 
lights at the intersections you must use to cross at.
If there are no lights or sidewalks, then you have a reason to use the 
Para-transit over the fixed route bus.
It is illegal to walk along a state or federal highway or right of way or 
upon any freeway.  This can get you Para-transit service too.
No one should have to risk their life in an unreasonable manner to get where 
they need to go

Weather can be a great factor on some people's ability to travel safely. 
Too hot, too wet or too cold effects everyone, but some people more than 
most.
Someone who