Chad’s own accessibility journey started in 2013 when he began using a wheelchair. While the wheels enabled him to pick up pace, he found the local public infrastructure and availability of accessibility information slowed him down.

So, he channelled his frustrations and passion to help others into developing web-based platform Accessibility in the City (AitC).

Blue Badge interviewed Chad to get a greater understanding of the project and how it will help make life easier for so many.

Why is it important for Australian cities and towns to be accessible?

Being able to easily navigate our hometowns and other places we visit is crucial to anyone’s confidence in participating in work, leisure, entertainment and travel. It’s crucial to our sense of social inclusion.

I know this through personal experience.

Soon after I began using a wheelchair I saw a need for a website that gives guidance on how people can travel safely and comfortably from point A to point B. Something that highlights what areas we can navigate easily and where we will find roadblocks.

What is Accessibility in the City?

AitC is an interactive mapping website that allows those of us with accessibility issues to safely initiate, plan, access and navigate urban environments.

Using councils’ validated business and infrastructure data, it provides user-friendly maps developed and enhanced by high resolution aerial satellite and imagery.

The maps highlight accessible points of interest such as disabled toilets and parking spaces, importantly. They also highlight the locations, length and slope of inclines, stairs, kerbs and other features impacting wheelchair and pram accessibility as well as general access for people with disabilities or other mobility challenges. We highlight inaccessible infrastructure such as train stations, too.

AitC went live in October 2019 at https://accessibilityinthecity.com.au, and data will continue to be added as councils come on board.

What led you to creating this business?

There was lots of disparate accessibility data floating around many different locations. I couldn’t find one single source of truth providing the information we really needed to get out and about – or, if there, it was really outdated.

I realised why when I started talking to people in local government and beyond. I found a lot of confusion around who held responsibility for owning and maintaining their area’s accessibility data.

If the right information isn’t there for us to find, then people with limited mobility just have to roll the dice and turn up, hoping to have the access needed.

For example, you would go to websites such as the National Toilet Map or Transport for NSW to find access-friendly infrastructure. Or look up a particular venue’s website. Or check Google Maps satellite view to see if there’s an image of the car parking situation. Even then the car park would usually need to be empty for you to see if disabled parking existed. And the satellite view still doesn’t have some of the new light rail showing, so it’s pretty outdated.

It shouldn’t be that difficult. Where’s the one stop shop of accessibility information?

The website currently covers Newcastle and some surrounds. What expansion plans do you have?

There are two lines for expansion: publicly managed information and privately managed.

We have the one major council on board at the moment, the City of Newcastle. We’re in conversation with many others and will continue approaching even more. We’ve also pulled some open data from other government data portals in NSW and will add it soon.

But our plans don’t stop there – we will go national. AitC is already looking into accessing other states’ and territories’ open data.

We’re hoping councils start to approach us as well, as they open their eyes to the benefit in making life easier for the hundreds of thousands of Australians who are mobility impaired.

Plus, we are getting to a place where businesses will be able to register and add their own accessibility data. They have a responsibility to our community too. Besides, it will only mean more trade for accessible businesses such as restaurants, retail outlets and so on if they make that information easily findable.

What about expanding into app land?

Right now we’ve kept it as a simple web-based map so it can be accessed across all devices and platforms. However, we will potentially implement an Apple and Android app to gain greater functionality and ease of use for people in those ecosystems.

AitC is always going to be a living, evolving beast.

What skills do you have that lend themselves to this endeavour?

I’m qualified in IT project and business management. I’ve worked in IT for 18 years, for the last two in agile platform development. That’s the professional side of things.

On the personal side of things, I have a mobility disability myself. I have an undiagnosed medical condition consistent with spinal muscular atrophy type 3. I was very mobile as a youngster then my mobility started to be limited in my teens and I ended up in a wheelchair at 30 years old.

Originally I was happy to go up and down stairs if it was a shorter distance, then as time went on I found much greater mobility in a wheelchair. For me, it’s so much easier to get around town on wheels. That is, as long as you know where the lifts, accessible inclines and so on are!

So, I have a very broad understanding of mobility difficulties.

Tell us your insights into the challenges of accessibility information ownership

Well, there’s an accessible toilet map of Australia but it doesn’t have accessible parking lot information around it. Basic data that should work together hand in hand.

And many councils don’t know they’re meant to be updating the national toilet map, whereas to my understanding that’s their responsibility. Some councils I’ve been in discussion with don’t know the website exists let alone it being their role to update it.

Also, a lot of council infrastructure, such as libraries, pools and museums, have accessible toilets but they don’t have an overview of those resources because the management and maintenance are contracted out based on the physical building. So, they’re sometimes unaware of what accessible spaces they actually have ownership of.

It is also fairly obvious that, unfortunately, most councils don’t have a core budget for the auditing and management of accessibility information.

AitC would love to help.

What’s one accessibility issue you’ve come across in your personal life that has frustrated you?

There are new apartments being constructed near where I live. The developers have removed eight accessible parking spots in just that one location and another five are going to be removed from the next block over.

I petitioned council for further information, who advised it was now managed by someone else, but that entity had contracted it to a secure parking company. They didn’t want to listen. The end result? There will soon be only two accessible parking spots in that whole waterfront area and they’re in front of a hotel. They’ll obviously be used by the hotel.

This waterfront precinct is growing but the accessible parking is reducing. We originally had 15 spots and will soon only have two available.

As for the funniest parking situation, that was on a really steep street. The steepest angle I’ve ever seen for a disabled car park. Just trying to transfer in and out of the car was almost impossible. My wheelchair brakes aren’t that great, so the chair was in motion before I’d gotten in! I just had to jump hard and hope I landed in it before it rolled away (I did).

How can we encourage councils to actively manage accessibility information?

Honestly, the more registered user accounts we have on Accessibility in the City, the more bargaining power we have. It proves how many people want to be heard in this respect – it shows how much we want it – and it enables me to work with more councils to make their area’s accessibility information readily available.

If people are interested in the platform and want to keep updated on it, register a profile on our website. Strength in numbers will help our community get more councils on board.

20% of our 24 million Australians have a declared disability, and many of those have limited mobility. That’s a lot of people thinking about where they’d prefer to take a lift to, where to park close to a business they need to visit, what train station they’re able to access, whether they can go to the toilet any time soon…

The more that information is made easily accessible the simpler day-to-day life will be.

What can the Blue Badge community do to encourage their council?

I suggest visiting your council website to look for its disability inclusion access plan – 593 councils across Australia should have one, or be working on one.

If it exists, read through to see what council is doing to try to make your community more socially inclusive. Check they’re marking accessible bathrooms and parking at the very least. The community really needs to show that if they had more information at hand they’d be able to attend more council events and locations, and better support them.

If you see a window of opportunity where information could be highlighted or displayed more easily, get in contact with your council to see when or if that information has been audited. Then strongly encourage them to do so.

Or, get in touch with us to see if we can assist: info@accessibilityinthe.city

Also, ask your local businesses how they promote themselves as part of a socially inclusive community. Ask if they’d get onboard with an accessibility website/app. If their council is involved then the business can be involved too.

If a local business isn’t accessible then let them know they can apply for infrastructure funding to have their building made accessible.

Opportunities arise by starting and continuing the conversation, by encouraging your community to get involved. We need a groundswell of community support to push public and private entities in the right direction.

What do you do in your downtime?

When I’m not trying to make the world a more participation-friendly place, I appear on [live streamed tech show] Lunaticks LIVE and help coordinate the largest annual awards for regional digital innovators and creatives – the annual NEWi Awards for Digital Creativity.

I also love spending time with my wife and playing video games with friends.

The post Accessibility In The City A Top Priority appeared first on Blue Badge Insurance.

OK, so being organised may not be a particularly sexy part of road tripping but it can make your holiday a whole lot easier. Let’s talk mobility equipment storage for driving holidays.

Planning ahead

You’ve likely scoured a number of the millions of guides out there for your destination of choice and are potentially considering hiring a vehicle suited to your needs.

Another key consideration is storage. Road holiday life is easier to manage when you’re across useful car storage hacks for your mobility equipment and other travel goods.

When planning how much storage space you need, you should of course think about necessary equipment like your mobility scooter and wheelchair. You should also be taking into account any emergency and backup supplies you need to bring and potentially be able to access quickly.

What about the smaller mobility aids and other equipment you need to take when exploring the new sights?

And what assistive items will you need for within your accommodation? Items that help you breathe and sleep easier, have a shower, go to the toilet, make your meals and more.

Then there’s the usual luggage, hobby gear and so on.

Whether heavy or relatively light, all this will need to be properly secured to prevent them becoming hazards. Much of it will need to be readily accessible too.

So, in planning your driving holiday are you sure you have what’s needed to store everything carefully and still be able to travel well? Write an initial list and add to it over the ensuing days as more comes to mind. Then you can determine the best ways to store these items.

Storage options

Obviously, your car choice will go a long way to ensuring you have room to store everything. Station wagons and minivans have more storage space than smaller cars, but if your stuff is particularly bulky you might consider a full-sized van.

As someone living with disability, or caring for someone who does, you’re likely right across the vehicle modifications, anchor points and so on you need inside a vehicle. The ones that make driving and passenger-ing a relatively simple home-away-from-home experience.

Below are interior and exterior storage options that go beyond this to help ease the potential pain – and increase the pleasure – of a road trip.

The exterior – mobility equipment storage for driving holidays

The most common external vehicle modifications that make life easier on the road are:

• Tow bar mounted wheelchair and scooter carriers – come in a variety of designs depending on the mobility aid size and weight. Foldable manual wheelchairs can be mounted on a rack similar to a standard bike rack, while larger aids like scooters can sit on a tray with extendable ramp. Tow bar mounted carriers don’t have their own wheels, so the entire weight of all this rests on the tow bar. It might add up to a significant unsupported weight, which can affect road handling and increase space required for parking. Check the vehicle manufacturer’s rated allowable down force and think carefully about what your journey entails.
• Roof racks – usually combined with car roof hoists, these store a wheelchair on the roof. They’re only suitable for use with foldable manual wheelchairs and come with or without weather protection covers. Note they raise the car’s overall height, so consider the spaces you’ll drive in and out of.
• Trailers – can be specially designed to carry mobility scooters or power wheelchairs. They carry the weight of the trailer and mobility device on the tow bar but have wheels to distribute the load more evenly. Trailers increase the parking space required, and drivers should make sure they’re comfortable reversing and parking with it attached. Check the manufacturer’s vertical load rating and include a fold-up ramp for easy loading and unloading.
• Storage boxes/roof pods – a great way to store mobility equipment, such as manual wheelchairs or walking frames, and other general luggage. Available in small to large sizes, they secure all your gear safely on the car roof and ensure they don’t become hazards in case of an accident.

Be aware that in some states/territories some vehicle modifications must be assessed for engineering safety and approved by a vehicle inspection officer. Also check in with your vehicle insurer before you make any purchases, to ensure your insurance policy covers it.

The interior – mobility equipment storage for driving holidays

With the need for safety and accessibility in mind – at your end destination and through your stops along the way – consider these interior mobility equipment storage options for your driving holiday:

• Seat storage – comes in all shapes and sizes for all types of luggage, including smaller mobility aids. There are headrest storage compartments that slip over front and back seats, boot storage compartments, under seat storage pockets, console organisers and side pocket add-ons… more storage extras than you can poke a walking stick at. Having your back-up battery, first aid kit, equipment tools, extra winter woollies and other must-haves readily available can make a sojourn much simpler.
• Cargo barrier – these can be put to good use within your car (especially station wagons) to help secure unoccupied wheelchairs and scooters, and their accessories, in the back. This is important in case of an accident but also more generally, so the driver and passengers aren’t caught unawares while on the road.
• Luggage nets – usually strung across boot spaces, luggage nets can hold all sorts of smaller, lighter equipment and separate different types of luggage for easy access. Choose from hammock style or pocket nets made from material of different strengths and attach a cargo bar to hang them from if you don’t want to attach to the boot’s side, floor or bulkhead.
• Umbrella stand – there are many different in-car umbrella stands, such as a self-adhesive hanger for the inside of your car door or clip hooks for the roof of your boot. Or, you might hook a waterproof umbrella storage bag to the back of your headrest. There’s even a ‘Doorbrella’ (created by three Sydney dads) that attaches to your car window with a robust clip and one-click suction pad

In many places you’ll take a road trip, the longer you travel the more likely you’ll be exposed to rainy, windy or otherwise unpleasant weather. Anything you can easily access before or soon after getting out of the car is a winner.

Another essential – insurance

Just as travel insurance is considered a necessity when you’re flying somewhere, insuring your vehicle and mobility equipment is crucial when road tripping (and for daily life too!).

Protecting the vehicle and mobility equipment that give you the freedom to travel will provide peace of mind that, should they get into an accident or break, you’ll be covered.

Choose your insurance provider wisely. It’s always worth considering a specialist insurer like Blue Badge Insurance that has years of experience working with the needs of people with disabilities. Here’s what Blue Badge offers:

1. Car insurance – This comprehensive insurance has been designed specifically for people with disabilities. All disability parking permit (DPP) users are eligible and the policy covers family, friends, carers and support workers while they’re driving too. It also provides up to $5,000 cover for assistive technology (wheelchairs, mobility scooters etc.) in the car. Blue Badge offers discounted premiums, of up to 25% for all DPP users, including those with cars that have been converted to accommodate drivers and/or passengers with a disability. Converted cars are also provided a ‘new for old’ replacement option for all disability conversions, for (conversions up to five years old, from newly installed).
2. Mobility equipment insurance – Blue Badge’s comprehensive wheelchair and mobility scooter insurance covers your equipment against accidental loss and damage, as well as third party liability for both personal injury and property. Additional benefits include overseas cover, personal items that are lost, stolen or damaged while using the device, and costs incurred to get the user and their device home after an accident (in Australia).

There’s enough to pay for on a holiday without having to worry about how you’ll afford to replace your trusty equipment or vehicle if something goes awry.

Before heading off

One last thing – if you’ve installed new storage equipment to make road tripping easier (whether large or small) test them out well in advance of your holiday. Then you’ll know if adjustments need to be made and can set off with confidence when the big day arrives.

Bon voyage!

The post Mobility Equipment Storage For Driving Holidays appeared first on Blue Badge Insurance.

When exploring the kind of enhancements required to make your car accessible, it is important to understand if they will impact the safety features of the vehicle, particularly how airbags operate.

Some modifications may require the movement of airbags, which can reduce the protection a passenger or driver would have. Read on to learn about some of the safety issues to consider when it comes to airbags…

Check Your Knee Airbags

Some types of hand controls can be complicated to install because the process may involve working around knee airbags to achieve the desired location. The mechanical connections of this equipment can block the release of an airbag, which could reduce the driver’s safety.

One way to keep the vehicle safe is to consider an electronic hand control, such as a brake lever, which can be fitted around the knee airbag.

By doing this, you can ensure all the safety features of the car are intact and will protect all the drivers of the vehicle.

Check Your Steering Wheel Airbags

Steering wheel airbags protect the person driving by shielding them against primarily head-on collisions. If your height, arm span or reach requires you to sit closer to the steering wheel, please remember that you will also be closer to the airbag located within the steering wheel.

The force generated by this airbag as it deploys can be dangerous to those nearest to the steering wheel.

In some cases, the steering wheel airbag could be electronically disarmed for specific drivers, then re-armed when other people are driving the vehicle, maintaining optimum safety for all drivers. Please consider the safety risks when disarming this airbag.

Can I Remove An Airbag To Fit Equipment?

Some car modifications may result in the removal of various airbags, which will heighten the chances of an injury if you are in an accident.

For instance, you need to install mechanical hand controls so you can drive your car, but the knee airbags are in the way. So, your vehicle converter suggests removing the knee airbags.

You should discuss safety concerns in detail with both your occupational therapist and vehicle converter before removing any of your car’s safety features.

The post Will My Car Be Safe If I Add Car Modifications? appeared first on Blue Badge Insurance.

Having a clinical assessment with an occupational therapist prior to buying or modifying your car is a great way to ensure you make the most of your purchase. Occupational therapists (often shortened to “OTs”) are healthcare professionals who work to help people participate in the activities of everyday life.

Planning on driving your vehicle, rather than someone driving it for you? You’ll need to obtain the necessary medical clearance from your doctor and state regulatory authority.

For example, in NSW, Roads and Maritime Services needs a doctor’s medical report so it is ‘fully aware of the condition, and so your doctor can recommend any specific licence restrictions, vehicle modifications or further assessments (for example an Occupational Therapist driving assessment). Your licence will be issued with the relevant conditions added.”

If you’ve never had your licence before you must undergo a driver assessment. The same applies if your functionality levels have changed due to a new or existing disability. An occupational therapist can help you with satisfying your state or territory’s licensing requirements.

They will also work with you to investigate your physical and lifestyle requirements when it comes to driving. They can discuss appropriate modifications with you, your carer or your support worker (if you have one) and your vehicle converter.

Driving assessments

Intend to drive the vehicle yourself? You will also need to undergo a driver assessment with an occupational therapist with specialist driver training. Occupational therapy driving assessments are recognised internationally and take around two to three hours. They contain both off-road and on-road components, usually conducted on separate days.

The off-road assessment includes screening of vision, physical function and cognition. The on-road assessment is conducted with a professional driving instructor in a dual control vehicle and takes around 50 minutes.

Following the tests, your Occupational Therapist will discuss the results with you and the licensing authority. When you are issued your driver’s licence or learner’s permit, it will list any vehicle modifications that you require.

If you are not immediately approved for a licence, you may be able to attend a driver rehabilitation program to help get you on the road. These programs may include:

• Learning to use modified vehicles or adaptive equipment
• Learning new driving techniques to compensate for limited functionality
• Desensitisation programs for people with anxiety or phobias
• Driving test preparation
• Upper limb strengthening for people with high level spinal cord injury

Upon receiving your licence, you will likely be eligible for a disability parking permit also.

Car modifications

If you need vehicle modifications in order to drive these need to be fitted while you have your learner licence and not after. Once you move on from being a learner driver you need to pass a disability driving test to upgrade your licence to a provisional P1 licence.

Your occupational therapist will not only assess your ability to drive. Involving your occupational therapist in buying a specialised vehicle is highly valuable. As mentioned, they will look at what kind of modifications you require. They will assess the transport needs of you and your family, explain your options and make sure you choose the most suitable vehicle modifications.

They can also liaise with your doctors and vehicle converters, help you apply for funding and explain regulations and paperwork.

An occupational therapist’s clinical assessment should take into account all aspects of your transportation requirements. They will not only explore your level of disability, they will discuss your home, the size of your family and the places you frequently visit, among other areas. For example, there is no point in buying a vehicle that is too tall to enter the parking facility at your workplace.

Pre-purchase factors to consider

Along with involving your occupational therapist in buying a specialised vehicle, put significant thought and time into your purchase decision. Some main aspects to consider are:

• Whether you have the physical, cognitive and psychological ability to drive a car
• Your ability to enter and exit a vehicle. Can you transfer? Are there ways to make transferring easier? What is the best way for you to travel safely in your wheelchair?
• Your carer’s needs. Carers should be comfortable and confident with any equipment that they will be required to use
• The size of your family. Your vehicle should have enough seating for everyone
• There are often multiple options available for vehicle modifications. Your occupational therapist should help you find one that you can afford
• Height and weight. Your vehicle and any ramps, lifting or storage equipment should be strong enough to hold you, your wheelchair and any other equipment (such as ventilators) that you carry
• Safety and comfort. Your occupational therapist will help to make your vehicle both safe and comfortable for all your needs. For example, you should not need to bend or tilt your head when using hoists, ramps or other lifting equipment. If you experience seizures there should be a mechanism for your carers to quickly and safely change your position in case of emergency
• Do you regularly travel on dirt roads or over speed humps? Does your garage have a low ceiling? Your occupational therapist will ask you about the kind of terrain you usually travel on. They may even visit your home or workplace to assess any possible obstacles
• Storage space. If you need to travel with extra equipment like walking frames, oxygen bottles or commodes, your vehicle should have space to safely store all your gear

Vehicle modifications

In many cases there are multiple options for vehicle modifications. It is important that you and your carer openly discuss your preferences, and the various costs involved, with your occupational therapist.

After completing a full assessment, the therapist can work with you and your chosen vehicle converter to make sure you get the car and modifications that best suit your requirements.

A vehicle is a long-term investment, so it’s important you consider your current needs as well as the expected changes to your needs over time.

Secondhand vehicles

Many people debate whether to buy a new or used vehicle. Purchasing second-hand is one way to reduce the costs associated with buying a specialised car. However, there are several factors to contemplate when choosing one.

An obvious one is involving your occupational therapist in buying a specialised vehicle – whether used or new. The previous user will have set up the vehicle to meet their needs. Check carefully that it also meets all your personal requirements. An occupational therapist can help you with this. If the vehicle will need further modifications, they and you should discuss options with a vehicle converter and any additional costs should be explored.

Remember to check the age and mileage of the base vehicle, as it may not last as long as a new one. As with any secondhand vehicle, it is wise obtain a roadworthy certificate before purchasing.

Also ensure that any previous modifications are properly installed and meet Australian Standards. A vehicle certifier registered in your state or territory should assess all modifications and issue a certificate of compliance as well as an engineering certification.

Dot your I’s and cross your t’s before heading on the road then you can enjoy driving (or passenger-ing) with confidence.

The post Involving your occupational therapist in buying a specialised vehicle appeared first on Blue Badge Insurance.

Vehicles that have been converted for drivers or passengers with a disability – either to ride in or drive in – fall into two different categories:

1. Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAV’s)
2. Converted Vehicles

Deciding which type you will need depends on the nature of your disability, first and foremost. Then, think about both your current situation and what changes could occur in the next few years.

You will also need to take into consideration aspects such as your budget, personal preferences (ie. do you want to drive or prefer someone else to drive you), ability to enter and exit a vehicle, lifestyle, family size, and what type of mobility devices you use (if at all).

Before we delve further into vehicle options for people with disability, be aware that you may be able to purchase your specialised vehicle through a funding organisation. See our article here that covers these funders, once you have decided what you need.

Wheelchair accessible vehicles

WAV’s have been structurally modified to allow a person to enter the car while still in their wheelchair. People in power wheelchairs or people unable to easily transfer from their chairs are those most likely to use them.

Depending on the vehicle make and model, and the modifications applied to it, WAV’s can allow wheelchair users to be the driver and/or the passenger. WAV’s are available in a wide range of designs to suit either drivers or passengers with a disability. Structural modifications can be very expensive and most WAV conversions start at around $25,000, on top of the cost of the car itself.

Interested in knowing more about WAVs as vehicle options for people with disability? Here are the top 5 things you need to be aware of, and here is a comprehensive A-Z guide written by us.

Converted vehicles

The term ‘converted vehicle’ describes a wide range of generally non-structural conversions, or equipment, designed to make it easier for a person with restricted mobility to use the vehicle. Here is an article that explores driving controls in converted cars.

The technology involved in modifying cars is changing at a rapid rate. This means more and more people with a disability are able to drive independently.

Depending on your needs, converting a vehicle might include anything from a spinner knob worth less than $100 to specialised driving control equipment costing hundreds of thousands of dollars. Joystick control, foot-steering and even operating controls with your voice are now all realistic options for drivers with a disability.

Conversions may help a person to drive, they may make it easier to get in or out of the car, or they may be designed to stow bulky mobility equipment. Equipment like mobility scooters and wheelchairs.

Research vehicle options for people with disability

Whether you are purchasing a WAV or a converted vehicle, it’s important to do your research. Shopping around is vital to making the right decision for your needs.

Not all cars are able to be converted as needed. Also, only certain makes and models will only allow for particular conversions – not necessarily all those you want to apply.

Specialised vehicles are a big investment, so make sure you take into account any changes that may occur over the next 10 years within your family, to your medical condition and lifestyle, or with your equipment.

Before purchasing or converting your own car, always arrange a test drive in a suitable configured vehicle to make sure it meets your needs. Most importantly, never be afraid to ask questions or get a second opinion.

Interested in knowing even more about converted cars as vehicle options for people with disability? Here is our A-Z guide on everything you need to know about converted cars.

Need to hire a specialised car?

Don’t have a WAV yet but still need to get around? Perhaps you’re going on holiday and need a WAV while you’re there. Check out our article that provides 14 WAV hire places.

Need car insurance?

Blue Badge Insurance specialises in insurance for mobility equipment and cars that have a disability parking permit. See here for your options.

The post The difference between wheelchair accessible vehicles and converted cars appeared first on Blue Badge Insurance.

Things To Consider When Booking A Hire Car:

 1. Read your booking terms

When booking online and entering a wheelchair accessible vehicle hire agreement it is important to understand the terms and conditions of your booking. Particularly if you have never booked with this company before.

 2. Compare your options

Saving money is always nice, but some companies may have hidden extras that quickly increase your total. If you have the time it will be more beneficial to you to compare a few businesses so you can better understand what you’re paying for.

3. Ask questions

Are you packing lots of luggage? When making a booking, be sure to ask about the space within the vehicle, as conversions and other adjustments may leave minimal room for you to fit luggage such as essential equipment.

4. Consider funding

If your car hire will be funded or reimbursed by a provider such as the NDIS, be sure to ask your funder what information you need to provide to them for payment. Alongside this, be sure to collect an invoice and any available information about your hire that may be needed by your funder. This will help make the process easier in the end.

14 Car Hire Companies To Remember For Your Next Trip:

So you don’t have to spend time exploring wheelchair accessible vehicle hire yourself, we’ve done the research for you. The companies listed below all offer this type of vehicle.

1. AAB – Access All Bus Rentals

Great for travelling with a group, AAB Rentals will help deliver you to your destination. This company can cater for up to 6 wheelchair seated passengers and offers rental across Australia.

2. Brazier Mobility

Brazier Mobility specialises in converting and hiring vehicles suitable for wheelchairs. Available for hire are a series of small capacity and commuter bus vehicles, suitable for every need. Brazier Mobility are based in South Australia.

3. Disability Hire Vehicles

Disability Hire Vehicles is a Sydney based business that offers an array of disability converted vehicles. These range in sizes from a mini panel van to mini-van and mini-bus, catering for all capacity requirements.

4. Europcar

Looking for wheelchair accessible vehicle hire you can actually book online? Visit Europcar to access its range of Kia Grand Carnival WAV’s for hire at locations across Australia.

5. GoGet

GoGet is an Australian rideshare platform, helping people travel from A to B around the country. It currently offers WAV bookings via a smartphone app for the North Shore area of Sydney only.

6. Freedom Motors

Freedom Motors primarily works in converting vehicles for accessibility, however, it also offers WAV’s for hire in the Sydney area. You can be picked up and returned from St Mary’s, which is about 40KM from Sydney CBD; alternatively, you can opt for a pickup/drop off at an additional fee.

7. Hertz

Hertz wheelchair friendly vehicles can be hired from Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and the Gold Coast and offer online bookings. That way you can spend more time exploring!

8. Hire Mobility

In Western Australia, you can hire WAV’s from Hire Mobility, which provides a variety of WAV’s that can seat up to 8 people.

9. Nation Wide Mobility Vehicles

If you are in need of car hire in Queensland, visit Nation Wide Mobility Vehicles for an extensive range of wheelchair accessible cars in many sizes.

10. Uber

Uber is a rideshare service available around Australia that you book via a smartphone app, that has a great number of drivers equipped with wheelchair accessible vehicles. The company supports wheelchair passengers by ensuring all drivers are certified to help these passengers safely enter and exit the vehicle.

11. Wheelaway

If you are in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Canberra, Wheelaway has a variety of small and large vehicles to suit your needs.

12. Wheel Easy

Wheel Easy is located in Perth and offers WAV’s equipped for both wheelchair users who self-drive and passengers who use wheelchairs.

13. Wheelie Campers

Looking for a vehicle capable of a long-distance adventure? Wheelie Campers provide wheelchair accessible camper vans for hire, allowing you to get the full road-trip experience with the comfort of a hotel. Their camper vans feature a kitchen, air conditioner, toilet, TV, wheelchair hoist, GPS and safe tie-down points.

14. Wheelies Van Rentals

Wheelies service area caters for individuals based in Adelaide and Hobart, as well as Sydney, Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Wheelies can offer car hire to suit multiple wheelchairs.

Looking For A Converted Hire Car?

Although the market for converted hire cars is narrow, you can hire one from Disability Hire Vehicles. Available here is a station wagon that has options for hand controls, a left foot accelerator and/or a Wymo wheelchair roof hoist.

The post 14 Places For Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Hire appeared first on Blue Badge Insurance.

Legally binding regulation doesn’t exist yet and most people involved in the disability sector agree it’s well overdue. Why? Rules and regs everyone can understand and adhere to is crucial for the safe use of this equipment. It should also assist with an increased acceptance of its role in society. Users will benefit greatly, as will those they encounter such as pedestrians and motorists.

Where it’s at

Any legally binding national regulation of motorised mobility devices is likely to have the existing Technical Specification for MMDs at its heart. Currently, this is only a voluntary guideline for the industry.

The Technical Specification sets out construction and performance requirements for motorised mobility devices for use on public infrastructure, such as footpaths, and public transport.

This includes:

• maximum unladen mass (170kg for scooters, no limit for powered wheelchairs)
• speed limits (6km/hour for slow speed setting and maximum speed of 10km/hour)
• width, height and length dimensions
• parameters around stability on gradients and braking performance

Who’s involved

Did you know that Assistive Technologies Australia (ATSA) has been working closely with government bodies to establish a consistent national approach to the regulation of motorised mobility devices? Its goal is to shape policy that takes everyone’s needs into account.

Over much of this year ATSA has worked closely with Austroads and the National Transport Commission on this. Austroads is the peak organisation of state/territory and local governments’ road transport and traffic agencies. NTC is a federal body that leads national land transport reform in support of Australian governments.

Austroads has invested in projects over several years to improve the safety of motorised mobility devices, with the NTC recently becoming directly involved.

The last couple of Austroads milestones for 2019 were:

1. holding national workshops with industry and government stakeholders to gather views on the best approach for the regulation of motorised mobility devices, and
2. calling for comment on proposed changes via a discussion paper created from the workshops.

As for the NTC, it has initiated a project that explores regulation of innovative vehicles (including motorised mobility devices). The goal is to introduce new legislation that provides consistency and fairness. The NTC’s most recent milestone is a recently-released policy proposal paper (see here) discussing overcoming key regulatory barriers that prevent the safe access and use of motorised mobility devices.

Austroads and the NTC are working closely together on their complementary projects, with any legislative changes to be progressed by the NTC.

Why regulation of motorised mobility devices is important

Everyone’s efforts have the same aim: to improve the construction and performance of mobility scooters and wheelchairs, reducing the likelihood of accidents and other unsafe outcomes.

This is especially important for mobility scooters.

Over the 5 years from 2011–12 to 2015–2016, 4,613 people were admitted to hospital for a possible mobility scooter-related injury. Further, over the 10 years from 2006–07 to 2015–16, 69 people aged 60 and over died from a mobility scooter-related incident. Most injuries were fall-related (97%) and the rest were pedestrians injured in a collision with a mobility scooter (3%).

Most of us are aware motorised mobility devices used on paths cannot exceed a 10km per hour speed limit, or an unladen mass of 110kg. True, unless they’re used in the states/territories that allow 150kg. Differing rules in different regions of Australia is widely understood to not be ideal.

The mobility equipment market is growing and people who use these devices are now able to travel more widely (thanks to an increase in accessible travel). A consistent approach is needed.

With it will likely come some kind of labelling system. Labels would encourage motorised mobility device buyers to better understand a device’s suitability for their intended use, by noting its safety standard and capability.

There are suggestions of a white label affixed to mobility equipment that is suitable for driving on infrastructure such as pathways, and a blue label for those suitable to also be used on public transport. See label examples in the discussion paper here.

ATSA’s stance on it

ATSA’s recommended approach to national regulation of motorised mobility devices is to bring the Technical Specification under an industry-driven adoption model. This means manufacturers and suppliers would voluntarily self-certify motorised mobility devices as per the Technical Specification.

ATSA also believes it’s important to consider the market for used mobility equipment. It suggests the introduction of some kind of grandfather structuring to manage the transition into national regulation.

Further, ATSA’s opinion is that motorised scooters shouldn’t have a weight limit (as with wheelchairs). It questions why wheelchair weights are unlimited yet other motorised mobility devices are not. According to the industry body “each user’s circumstances are too individual to conform to one set of criteria”.

Your thoughts

What do you think about weight limit allowances differing between types of motorised mobility devices? What about the need for regulation of motorised mobility devices – is it important or not? Let us know your thoughts below.

The post Need To Know: New Laws For Motorised Mobility Devices appeared first on Blue Badge Insurance.

As part of their DPP, holders are eligible for certain allowances and entitlements to accommodate their mobility restrictions such as free parking and the ability to park longer in time limited spaces.

While a necessity for so many, the convenience of parking in an accessible space combined with the extra benefits a permit provides can for unscrupulous individuals to attempt getting one fraudulently.

Thankfully, it’s not so easy for these selfish people to do so. The process of qualifying for a disability parking permit is by no means easy or quick; and includes numerous checks and balances to ensure the applicant is deserving of the permit.

Furthermore, despite popular opinion, you cannot purchase a disability parking permit in Australia.

Before we look into how to get a disability parking permit, let’s explore what it is exactly.

What is a Disability Parking Permit?

Today, there are three types of DPP: Individual, Temporary and Organisation. These replaced more than 100 different types of permits that were once available, and they were introduced with increased security features to reduce fraudulent misuse and to make it easier for permit holders to travel interstate.

These new regulations have helped standardise the qualifying criteria for disability parking permits across Australia and, in doing so, increased the difficulty for an able-bodied person sneakily being approved for one. Contrary to some opinions a DPP is not easy to come by because there are a number of hoops to jump through to attain one.

Let’s look at what the permit allows.

What a DPP allows you to do

Disability parking permits allow drivers to park in designated spaces featuring the international access symbol and permit holders are also given concessions for parking in time-limited spaces.

As the Australian Disability Parking Scheme website says, “Permit holders can park in parking spaces showing the international symbol of access and can receive concessions in most public parking spaces where the sign or meter shows specific time limits.”

Every state and territory must meet the minimum national standards as a starting point. From there they have the flexibility to provide further concessions to meet their DPP holders’ needs. This is why parking permit regulations differ in each state and territory.

This means that if you’re travelling interstate you need to be aware that your usual concessions may not apply. And if you are planning to move interstate permanently you need to re-apply for a permit in your new state/territory as soon as you get a chance to. Click here to read about using your permit interstate.

Even though rules differ between each, in most cases the DPP holder needs to renew the permit with their local authority every three to five years.

The steps to get a disability parking permit different in each state and territory too, though again only slightly. Here are the facts.

Application Criteria to Get a Disability Parking Permit

So, just how easy is it for someone to fly under the radar and obtain a permit that should not be in their hands? What evidence do you need to apply for an Individual disability parking permit?

In most states, at the very least you need to demonstrate that it’s difficult for you to walk 100m or without some assistance (e.g. using a walker, wheelchair or other mobility equipment). That is, eligibility centres on one’s capacity to walk.

For example, to be eligible in New South Wales you must either be blind (this is not the case for a number of other states/territories) or have a mobility disability. There, a mobility disability is defined by legislation as someone:

• Unable to walk due to the permanent or temporary loss of use of one or both legs, or other permanent medical or physical condition
• Whose physical condition is detrimentally affected as a result of walking 100 metres, or
• Who requires the use of crutches, a walking frame, callipers, scooter, wheelchair or other similar mobility aid.

If you’re a Queensland resident, you may be eligible if one of the following applies to you:

• Unable to walk and always require the use of a wheelchair
• Ability to walk is severely restricted by a permanent medical condition or ability to walk is severely restricted by a temporary medical condition or disability that you will have for 6 months or more as certified by your doctor or occupational therapist.

Further, Queensland applicants with intellectual, psychiatric, cognitive or sensory impairment who want to get a disability parking permit don’t meet the eligibility criteria on that alone. They must also have a mobility impairment that impacts on their ability to walk.

While in Western Australia, you need to meet one of the following criteria:

• You are unable to walk and always require the use of a wheelchair, or
• Your ability to walk is severely restricted by a permanent medical condition or disability, or
• Your ability to walk is severely restricted by a temporary medical condition or disability.

And in South Australia, you can apply to get a disability parking permit if these factors reflect your situation:

• A permanent physical impairment or a temporary impairment that is likely to continue for more than six months
• The impairment severely restricts speed of movement
• The impairment significantly inhibits the ability to access public transport.

Steps to Get a Disability Parking Permit

If the above sounds like you or you loved one then you’re halfway there. Now comes the paperwork.

In most states and territories the steps involve:

1. Complete an application form.
2. Meet with a GP to discuss whether they agree that you need a disability parking permit. If they do, they must complete part of the application form to define and substantiate the medical reasons why you need the permit[1]. In many cases, they have to include documentation detailing your medical condition, how long you have had the condition and how it impacts your mobility.
3. Some GPs may also need a letter from your occupational therapist.
4. Send/take the application to the offices of the issuing authority (mode of delivery depends on your state/territory).
5. Along with the application you’ll also need to present documentary evidence such as proof of identity and you may also need to present a Centrelink disability pension card, supporting letter/s, photo exemption letter, and so on.

Not the easiest of processes but one that helps keep out many dishonest people who try to get a disability parking permit because they simply want the concessions rather than need them.

[1] * Note this does not need to happen in some cases, e.g. in the ACT and NSW being endorsed as ‘blind’ on a Centrelink disability pension card is enough proof

Who is allowed to use a DPP?

There are different types of disability parking permits issued for different usage types, which we touched on earlier:

1. Individual– Issued for 5 years to people with a permanent disability.

These individuals can use their permit, obviously, and so can their family, friends and support workers – but only when transporting the permit holder in a vehicle. Using someone’s permit when they are not in the vehicle can results in hefty fines.

2. Temporary– Issued for up to 6 months to people with a temporary disability, for example a leg injury.

These same rules as above apply in this situation and it’s courtesy to do away with the permit before the time limit if the temporary disability has been resolved. Let’s leave the accessible parking spaces and concessions for those who really need it.

3. Organisation– Available only to organisations that provide transport for people with disabilities.

Similarly, workers from the organisation can only use the disability parking permit when it is providing transport services for people who meet the permit eligibility criteria

Where things can appear to grey a little – but this is only perception – is when people have disabilities that aren’t obvious.

Parking permits for invisible disabilities

What a lot of abled people don’t realise, and even some who are living with a visible disability, is that there are many individuals across Australia who are living with  invisible disabilities (or, hidden disabilities). And although their disability isn’t immediately apparent because they don’t always use mobility equipment like wheelchairs and mobility scooters, often they need an Individual disability permit too because their condition prevents them from walking long distances without significant difficulty and/or pain.

Just like those with a visible disability, their eligibility for a DPP comes down to their functional capacity to walk, the restrictions they experience with their mobility.

More importantly, these people must apply for the permit in the same way as those with visible disabilities. This means they have acquired them legally (and somewhat painstakingly) and are entitled to use accessible parking spaces.

Invisible disabilities are wide-ranging and include cancer, cystic fibrosis, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis and chronic fatigue syndrome. For many, their invisible disability unfortunately limits their ability to move and be active, just like a visible one can.

So, many individuals with an invisible disability very much have the right to appreciate the benefits of a disability parking permit.

Whatever the case, visible or invisible, it’s important to know that those who have been issued a disability parking permit – after jumping through all the hoops – deserve to be able to park closer, have more time to return to the car and so on. They’re entitled to the space, no matter what things look like on the surface.

Another Benefit of a DPP – Discounted Car Insurance

Have you taken the steps to get a disability parking permit, been approved and are now wondering if you’re eligible for something else to help make life a little easier? Read on…

Blue Badge Insurance know that most insurers don’t understand disabilities and often quote higher premiums. Mistakenly, they consider disability permit users to be high-risk drivers.

Not so with us. As Australia’s first independence and disability insurance specialist, Blue Badge understands this space. We know disability permit holders are generally safer drivers who represent a lower risk and we think they deserve to be rewarded with lower prices.

Find out more about our car insurance for disability parking permit holders here.

The post Swings and Roundabouts: How to Get a Disability Parking Permit appeared first on Blue Badge Insurance.

Maintenance Is Crucial

Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are critical equipment for people who struggle with mobility and walking for longer periods. Whether you use a manual wheelchair, a power/electric wheelchair or a mobility scooter, having the know-how to care for your equipment means it will perform better, be more reliable and extend the life of your device.

A bit of maintenance can go a long way; read on to see our easy checklist for keeping your mobility equipment in top-notch shape.

1. Read Your Instruction Manual

Your manual is a good source of information for maintenance tips and safe use guidelines. Regularly following these can help preserve the performance of the wheelchair/mobility scooter and extend its life.

2. Keep Your Equipment Clean And Dry

There are parts on both wheelchairs and mobility scooters that need to be kept dry and cleaned often, particularly moving parts that can attract dust and dirt. It is also important that you store your equipment undercover or indoors whenever possible to avoid wear and corrosion.

3. Keep Your Battery Well Charged

If your device is powered/electric it will need regular charging. Your battery’s charge time can reduce if left unused for longer periods of time. Consider regularly charging it or purchasing a smart charger that can automatically top up the batteries if left plugged in.

4. Monitor Your Tyres

Checking tyre tread and keeping pneumatic tyres well inflated is important as these help the wheelchair/mobility scooter roll smoothly on the ground. If your tyres aren’t looked after they may impact the overall performance of your equipment. For example, more resistance when self-propelling or difficulty accelerating in a motorised device.

5. Speak Up

If you notice any strange sounds, manoeuvring issues or other changes to your equipment it is vital that you report them to your repairer straight away.

6. Regular Servicing

Your wheelchair or mobility scooter supplier should be able to service your equipment and include a service program for your records. It is recommended that you service your device every 6-12 months depending on how frequently you use it.

Planning a trip? It is worth getting a service before taking your wheelchair or scooter on holidays or long trips. A professional service should include:

1. Checking batteries and chargers, repairing or replacing them as needed.
2. Making sure brakes and steering are safe and have been cared for.
3. Monitoring the condition of tyres and tubes and replacing is necessary.
4. Ensuring all screws, fixtures and moving parts are intact g. bolts, fuses and wheel bearings.
5. Monitoring any issues or concerns you raise.
6. Repairing damage.

Insurance

While maintaining your mobility equipment is very important for keeping you safe, remember often your environment may not be. Everyday obstacles like uneven footpaths, pedestrians, cyclists, road crossings and driveways can create dangerous situations and unfortunately, accidents happen.

This is why we have created a series of unique features and benefits in our policy specifically for mobility equipment users. This includes third party injury and property cover, loss or damage by theft, fire, flood or vandalism, costs to get you and your equipment home after an accident.

You can find out more here – Comprehensive Wheelchair Insurance Policy and Comprehensive Mobility Scooter Insurance Policy. 

The post Tips On How To Maintain Your Wheelchair or Mobility Scooter appeared first on Blue Badge Insurance.

Needless to say, these permits allow the users an extra level of convenience that is extremely important for people with mobility challenges.

All this sounds great, but what happens when you travel interstate? Have you ever wondered if you can use your permit outside your own home state/territory? 

Simply put, if you have a current Australian disability parking permit you can use it anywhere in Australia. Permit holders can park in parking spaces showing the international symbol of access and can receive concessions in most public parking spaces where the sign or meter shows specific time limits.

But remember, it’s important to be aware that road rules and regulations are different in each state and territory so it is important to check parking laws in the state/territory that you are visiting. You can find the relevant information for each state or territory here:

Disability Parking Permit Conditions in each state or territory

New South Wales – https://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/roads/using-roads/mobility-parking/using-your-permit/index.html

Victoria – https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/safety-and-road-rules/road-rules/disability-parking#C4

Queensland – https://www.qld.gov.au/disability/out-and-about/travel-transport/driving/parking-permits?fbclid=IwAR3clJ49N4F5d5s5Klxu_YghoALvkeMxMKKi0kIPM2KF59cjgMT3nPWjY4I

Western Australia – http://www.acrod.org.au/information-and-links/

South Australia – https://www.sa.gov.au/topics/driving-and-transport/disability/disability-parking-permit

Tasmania – https://www.transport.tas.gov.au/passenger/passengers/concessions

ACT – https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/app/answers/detail/a_id/1677#!tabs-2

Northern Territory – https://www.darwin.nt.gov.au/live/parking-roads/parking/disability-parking-permits

Remember if you park in an accessible space without a valid permit you can be fined, so it’s important to always have your permit displayed.

Finally, if you are planning to move interstate permanently you must re-apply for a permit in your new state/territory.

The post Taking Your Permit Interstate appeared first on Blue Badge Insurance.