United Spinal denounces Uber's new Washington, D.C. TAXI WHEELCHAIR option as inadequate, unsustainable

United Spinal AssociationDec 13 2015

United Spinal Association, today denounced Uber's new Washington, D.C. TAXI 'WHEELCHAIR' option that enables riders to request a wheelchair accessible taxi on-demand as "inadequate and unsustainable."

"There are two reasons why this is not an adequate solution; current demand for accessible taxi service in the District far exceeds supply and Uber is actively weakening the taxi industry -- the wheelchair option source providing the few accessible vehicles available in DC," said Carol Tyson, Director of Disability Policy at United Spinal Association.

James Weisman, President and CEO of United Spinal Association, who helped draft significant portions of the Americans With Disabilities Act added, "Partnering with a diminishing taxi industry that Uber is actively seeking to undermine and force out of business, is not a sustainable solution."

United Spinal is the largest national disability-led nonprofit organization serving and representing the interests of more than a million Americans living with spinal cord injuries and disorders.

Tyson explained partnering with taxis does not increase access for the community and is not a long term solution. District's taxi drivers have seen a significant reduction in revenue as a result of Uber's presence in the market.

"Many of the District's accessible taxis sit on lots, while existing taxi drivers struggle to make a living wage," said Tyson.