Accessible Taxicab Program

By-law Services is proud to report that the "start-up" Accessible Taxicab program is up and running in the City of Ottawa.

It is the City's intent that a variety of licensed, accessible taxicabs be available to provide a customized service to persons with disabilities. As of April 2004, 6 "London-style" taxicabs and 17 modified side-entry vans are in service and available from three licensed taxi brokers serving the entire Ottawa area.

Since we recognize that the addition of rear-loading vans would greatly assist users with large electric wheelchairs or scooters as well as those persons travelling with companions, the City has requested provincial approval for the use of such vehicles as accessible taxicabs. We anticipate a decision on this by the fall of 2004.

Every driver of an accessible taxicab has successfully completed training specially designed toward providing a safe and reliable transportation service to the disabled. The course, purchased as a customized version from the City of Toronto, is taught at Algonquin College by experienced taxicab driver trainers. The City has received many compliments about the professionalism of these highly trained drivers.

The City has retained a consultant recognized throughout North America as an expert in taxi issues, to establish the optimum number of accessible taxicabs required to provide a dependable accessible taxi service in Ottawa.

As with any new endeavour, there are still some areas requiring improvement. We have received some reports that the accessible service has at times been unavailable when requested — most notably late at night. By-law Services is working to remedy this problem with the taxicab brokers and the trained drivers.

Staff of By-law Services hopes to increase the number of licensed drivers qualified to transport residents and visitors with disabilities. One goal being reviewed is that all new taxicab drivers be qualified to drive both regular and accessible vehicles in order to be licensed by the City.

To improve upon the accessible taxi service in Ottawa, the City invites your feedback. Please feel free to contact us anytime, by e-mail at bylawservices@ottawa.ca or by calling 3-1-1.