Getting Around Town: Transportation & How To Use It A presentation by the National Youth Leadership Network Youth-to-Youth Training

What is NYLN? A youth-led, youth-run national organization that serves as a voice for and network of young leaders with disabilities. Our members are youth and young adults with disabilities (age 16-28) and allies (siblings, friends, parents, teachers, etc.). You can register to be an NYLN member at As a member you will get great info and be connected to other young leaders and allies around the country. IMAGE: Picture of the NYLN logo. It has a hand imprint on it, and it reads: National Youth Leadership Network.

Bus Systems Three types of bus systems: Fixed Route (Local) Local bus system that goes the same route every day. Paratransit (Local) Local curb-to-curb van or small bus service for people with disabilities. Your must be preapproved. Call ahead. Coach (Long Distance) Greyhound and other companies that run buses across the country. IMAGE: Bus driving down the road.

Taxicab Services Taxis provide door-to-door service. They are often the most expensive way to travel, so usually a last resort for most people. If you need a wheelchair-accessible cab, you need to call ahead to make sure there is one available. There are two ways of charging you – metered fare (by mile) and flat rate (figured out before you travel). IMAGE: A yellow taxicab.

Trains and Subways Trains are national. They are run by private companies like Amtrak. Subways are normally city-wide. For trains, make sure you contact them ahead of time to ask for your accommodation. For subways, make sure they are accessible. A lot of cities do not have fully accessible subways. IMAGE: Underground subway.

Air Travel: Tips for Flying! Look at the length of the plane flight. Allow time between connections for assistance to be provided. Speak directly to the airline to make sure accommodations are provided. Ask in advance. Plan ahead for security regulations that limit items. If you put all your medical items in one bag, they usually won’t charge for that bag. Don’t add non-medical items to that bag. Have the right identification with you. IMAGE: An image of a plane with a globe in the background.

Personalized Cars People with disabilities can make modifications to their cars so that they can drive. People with disabilities can apply for accessible parking spots. IMAGE: Open road with car driving into the horizon.

Walking or Bicycling Tips for pedestrians and bicyclists: Plan your route and the time it takes to travel. Walking or bicycling usually takes longer than driving. Be sure to follow traffic and safety laws in your area. Be sure to drink lots of water. As for directions if you get lost. Have fun! IMAGE: A traffic cop blowing his whistle.

Disability Discrimination Almost every transportation provider has a complaint department. Tell them about your frustrations or concerns as well as how they can improve. Also, if they have great service or support, call and tell them that, too! We all like to hear about things that are working well.

For more information, or to become a member, contact us: National Youth Leadership Network (NYLN) wwww wwww wwww.... nnnn yyyy llll nnnn.... oooo rrrr gggg