From: ann arciuli [annarciuli@hotmail.com]
Sent: Tuesday, 3 July, 2001 21:17
To: disabdis@humanrights.gov.au
Subject: Submission re accessible taxi service

My name is Andrew Arciuli and I am a twenty year old male with Duchenne 
Muscular Dystrophy.  I would like to submit the following viewpoint.


I believe that wheelchair users on some occasions are forced to wait longer 
than other taxi users to use a taxi.


Reasons why:

Attitude of some drivers.
Inadequate number and proportion of accessible taxis.
Quota for wheelchair jobs for drivers are insufficient. Possible disorganised system of booking for wheelchair taxis. Some drivers not taking care of wheelchair bookings before taking other 
bookings.


Solutions that could help in reducing waiting times:

Increase the quota of wheelchair jobs that drivers have to reach per month. Increase number and proportion of accessible taxis. Impose penalties on drivers who don't comply with regulations. Ban drivers from taking other bookings while ever there are outstanding 
wheelchair bookings.
Give drivers bonuses for outstanding service.
Give drivers incentives for doing as many wheelchair jobs as they can.


I have felt unsafe while using an accessible taxi.  Reasons include:

Incorrect and/or insufficient restraining of wheelchair.
Speedy and/or aggressive driving.


I do not think that regulations for accessible taxis are adequately 
enforced.

Andrew Arciuli

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