Accessibility issues and the law

[goddessoflubbock]

I live in a relatively small, rural town. I use a power chair to travel outside my home.

My kids' bus stop is down the block and around the corner.

My corners do not have curb cuts (which would dump me out into a fairly busy street but at least I could get to the bus stop) and the fellow who lives in the corner house owns a large truck which he parks illegally (covering the sidewalk) every day. If I could continue past his driveway on the sidewalk I'd be at the bus. It also creates a hazard for my kids walking to the bus. Since he is friends with the local PD they won't do anything, and code enforcement just refers chronic offenders to the PD.

I called the city about getting the curb cuts and was told I'd be put on a list, and if and when they ever get the money I'd get the ramps. (There is another person on my street in a power chair but he rarely comes out).

My city has found millions to demolish and rebuild perfectly good overpasses, but can't find a lousy couple thousand so I can make sure my kids are safe on/off the bus. I've also tried getting the bus stop changed, to no avail.

Do I have any legal recourse against the city? (I've given up on the neighbor - he even once put a big heavy piece of furniture on the sidewalk trying to prevent me from getting to the corner. I rode on his grass, then he threatened to have ME arrested for property damage from my wheels!!!

[dabhoi]

goddess,

The question you posed is a very good question. The law you might be referring to is ADA(Americans with Disabilities act), unfortunately there are several loopholes in this act that may prevent the city from getting you the ramp. ADA does not cover residential property meaning that you will have a hard time settling this in court. Also you have to look at the undue hardship it will have on the other residents. I would suggest talking with your city alderman or other government official and tell them your situation. Sorry I could not be of any more help, your situation sucks it really does.


What you can do is threaten the police with the ADA and see how it goes. Tell them you are going to contact the state legislature if they don't accommodate your situation. You can also visit a rehabilitation agency and tell them your situation. There are counselors whose job is to guide you in situations like these, Most likely the police are aware of ADA, but do not know the specific rules and may give in to your requests.

Hopefully you get this issue resolved.

God bless you.
Rak

[houghchrst]

There was someone on here who has a website that made a movie about getting around in a city setting in a wheelchair and how hard it was. I will try to recall who it was