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Wheelchair transportation: User perception of safety, availability, and WC19 knowledge
Brennen T McManus1, Colleen M Peterson1, Kathleen D Klinich1
1Transportation Research Institute, University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI), Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.
Assistive Technology : the Official Journal of RESNA
|August 11, 2026
Summary
Most wheelchair users are interested in RESNA WC19 wheelchairs, but public transport fails to meet their needs. Further research and policy are needed to improve accessible transportation for wheelchair users.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Engineering
- Transportation Safety
- Disability Studies
Background:
- The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 mandated accessible public transportation.
- RESNA WC19 is a voluntary standard for wheelchair crashworthiness in vehicles.
- The impact of WC19 on wheelchair transportation safety is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess wheelchair users' knowledge and use of WC19 wheelchairs.
- To evaluate if current transportation options meet wheelchair users' needs under the ADA.
- To identify barriers and opportunities for improving wheelchair transportation safety and accessibility.
Main Methods:
- A survey was administered to 69 wheelchair users.
- The survey collected data on WC19 knowledge, usage, and transportation experiences.
- Participant data was analyzed to understand transportation preferences and satisfaction.
Main Results:
- 56.5% of participants knew about the WC19 standard; 62.5% used WC19 wheelchairs.
- 68% expressed increased interest in obtaining a WC19 wheelchair post-survey.
- Personal vehicles (75.4%) and rideshares (33.3%) were preferred over public transport.
- Public transportation met user needs less than 25% of the time.
Conclusions:
- There is a need to promote WC19 wheelchair use and address implementation barriers.
- Public transportation systems require significant improvements to meet ADA accessibility standards for wheelchair users.
- Further research and policy initiatives are crucial for enhancing wheelchair transportation safety and accessibility.
