United Spinal Calls Uber's New D.C. Wheelchair Taxi Initiative "Inadequate and Unsustainable"

NEW YORK, Dec. 12, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- 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.

About United Spinal Association
United Spinal is a national 501(c) (3) nonprofit membership organization formed in 1946 by paralyzed veterans and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all Americans with spinal cord injuries and disorders (SCI/D), including multiple sclerosis, spina bifida, ALS and post-polio. It played a significant role in writing the Americans with Disabilities Act, and made important contributions to the Fair Housing Amendments Act and the Air Carrier Access Act. Membership is free and is open to all individuals with SCI/D. United Spinal was instrumental in getting New York City to create sidewalk curb ramps and accessible public transportation that has been used as a model for many United States cities.

Media contact:
Ahvi Spindell                                                                 
Spindell Media Relations, LLC
United Spinal Association                                             
(212) 580-4567                                                                 
[email protected]
Twitter @ahvispin

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James Weisman
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SOURCE United Spinal Association