[NAGDU] Interesting Lyft experience

[Jenine Stanley]

I was sad to read of all the rideshare denials via social media, that took place on October 15 as we all rallied. As I set up my Lyft trip back home from the airport Thursday evening, I was sure I was going to be in that group. 

I’d asked the Aira visual interpreter to set up the ride home so we could find the driver easily. As I got into his car, he said “I can take you anywhere but I don’t take dogs. I can’t take the dog.” 

I explained that Curtis is a guide dog and that he is obligated under the law to take us both. Not sure what he expected me to do with Curtis if I couldn’t take him. 😄 I kept explaining about the law and using the terms “guide dog” and finally “Seeing eye dog”. Yes, Curtis is actually a graduate of The Seeing eye. Then it dawned on me to tell him more. 

“I’m blind and this is my Seeing Eye dog.” 

“Oh, OK. You’re really blind? You found my car though.”

I explained about Aira and that I travel often and also pay attention to my environment, blah, blah, blah. The driver did not say another word about the dog. He got in and we had a lovely conversation on my way home. 

I did give him a nice tip and comments via the app. I also thanked him and let him know about the two questions he can ask in future and that he saved himself being kicked off the platform. It’s easy to just do the right thing. 

Jenine and Curtis who are both happy to be back home