Accommodating Air Travelers with Disabilities

(I-TravelNewswire.Com, October 02, 2012 ) Dothan, AL – October marks the month people start really finalizing their upcoming holiday travel plans. People with disabilities should not be daunted by the prospects of travelling. The Department of Transportation provides these tips to people with disabilities who may be traveling by air:

1. By law, air carriers cannot refuse travel to a person on the basis of a disability unless there is a safety issue and then they must provide a written explanation of the decision.

2. Although the airline does not need to be notified that the passenger has a disability, if any special accommodations may be needed, it is best to make the requests when purchasing the ticket. Speaking directly to the airline instead of relying on a travel agent to relay the request is always a good idea. Some carriers require a minimum 48 hours notification to prepare for special accommodations. With advance notice many airports will provide door to plane and plane to door wheelchair and/or electric cart services. In addition, battery operated wheelchairs may be placed in the baggage compartment of a plane, but the airline should have advance notice as the batteries may be required by FAA rules to be packaged in specialized containers at no additional cost to the traveler.

3. Persons with disabilities should cooperate with the airline for the good of everyone. Although an airline may not prevent anyone from sitting in specific seats (except exit rows) some seats may provide better access or more comfortable seating for both the person with the disability as well as other passengers. Pre-boarding may be an option also. Smaller planes are less likely to be as accommodating as larger planes simply due to space requirements.

4. Some air carriers may also place a wheelchair on the plane for use during the flight if requested to do so in advance.

5. Assistive devices do not count toward the carry on limit, but must comply with FAA rules concerning the stowage of carry-on baggage.

6. If the disabled person requires oxygen use, make sure the portable device or oxygen generator taken on the plane is labeled FAA approved. The oxygen device provider should be able to help with obtaining the proper equipment and labels. If the airline’s oxygen is used they may charge an additional fee for the service.

7. Should you have difficulties during your trip and the problem is not resolved by the airline attendants or employees, ask to speak either in person or by phone with your air carrier’s Complaints Resolution Official.

Hopefully this holiday season will be a time for everyone, regardless of disability, to have the opportunity to enjoy the comfort of family gatherings!

About the Cochran Firm

Recognized as one of the nation’s premier law firms, The Cochran Firm handles cases on behalf of clients seeking a Personal Injury lawyer, Criminal Defense, Medical Malpractice or Social Security Disability lawyer. The Firm can be reached at 1-800-THE-FIRM (1-800-843-3476) or visit their website at http://www.cochrannation.com. “Working For You.” Article by Ben Irwin, Esq.###

Cochran Firm

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Dothan, Alabama 36301

1-800-THE-FIRM (1-800-843-3476)

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Ben Irwin

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detroit@disabilitylawyerindetroit.com

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