The current shortage of wheelchair-accessible taxis in Australia is largely driven by several factors:
- Deregulation and Competition from Rideshare Services: The rise of rideshare platforms like Uber has created increased competition, leading to fewer incentives for taxi operators to invest in wheelchair-accessible vehicles, which have higher operational costs.
- High Operational Costs: Wheelchair taxis are more expensive to maintain, as they require special equipment and often consume more fuel than standard taxis. With little financial incentive and rising costs, fewer operators are willing to run these vehicles.
- Driver Shortages: A lack of drivers willing to operate wheelchair-accessible taxis, partly due to lower earnings compared to rideshare drivers and the extra responsibility involved, has also contributed to the shortage.
- Limited Government Support: Although some subsidies exist, they may not be sufficient to encourage more operators to provide wheelchair-accessible services. Without substantial financial incentives or reform, the availability of these taxis continues to decline.
These combined factors have left many people with disabilities struggling to access reliable transportation, especially in peak times when the few available vehicles are already in use.
At Para Mobility we’ve spent decades understanding the needs of accessible travel and fine-tuning solutions to make it more readily available and feasible long term. No one should be left stranded when they need to get from A to B which is why we’ve developed the IBIS Wheelchair to Car Access.
Key features include:
- Independence: The IBIS system enables individuals and their caregivers to independently transfer a wheelchair user into a car.
- Cost Savings: By owning the IBIS system, families avoid ongoing expenses associated with rideshare or taxi fares, especially for frequent trips or daily commutes.
- Convenience: The system allows for spontaneous travel, offering greater flexibility in daily routines.
- Compatibility: Compatible with most vehicle makes and models, users do not have to invest in costly vehicle modifications. It can also be used on multiple vehicles.
- Comfort and Safety: The IBIS system ensures a secure and comfortable transfer from the wheelchair to the car, reducing the risk of injury or discomfort.
- Resale Value: When no longer needed, the IBIS system can be resold, offering a sound long-term investment.
By investing in the IBIS Wheelchair to Car Access system, individuals gain freedom, convenience, and financial benefits that significantly improve their quality of life.
Taxi and rideshare companies also have a feasible option allowing them to cater to customers who are unable to invest in an IBIS personally. This not only expands the customer base but showcases a willingness to foster inclusivity and accessibility.
