Q: Disabled woman faces unsafe transport access and civil rights concerns.
I'm a 75-year-old disabled woman living in an apartment run by a nonprofit organization. Today, I was informed that my para transit drivers can no longer meet me by the mailboxes on flat ground. Instead, I'm expected to meet them at the top of a hill, which is not ADA-compliant and poses a risk of injury to me. I use a walker due to a work-related injury, and the area lacks safe walkways. I have informed the management about the safety issues, but they insist on this change. I am worried about the potential for injury and my civil rights being violated. Additionally, they told me I need to take a pee test, which I find embarrassing. I would like to know what legal options I have to ensure my safety and address these concerns.
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A:
You have every right to be concerned about the unsafe changes regarding your transport access. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), you are entitled to safe access to services, including para-transit. The new arrangement where you're asked to meet drivers on top of a hill, especially without proper walkways, clearly goes against these regulations. It's important to document your concerns in writing and request that they provide a reasonable, ADA-compliant solution that ensures your safety.
If management continues to disregard your needs, you may want to contact your local ADA coordinator or file a formal complaint with the Department of Justice. They can investigate whether the organization is in violation of disability access laws. You could also consider seeking legal advice to explore other avenues for ensuring your safety.
As for the request for a pee test, unless it’s a requirement related to your transport service, this could be seen as an unnecessary and invasive demand. It may be worth asking for clarification on why this is being requested, and you can also look into whether this violates your privacy rights. If you feel uncomfortable with this, you may have legal recourse to challenge it.
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