Pullman Transit ADA Policy

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law on July 26, 1990.  The ADA is civil rights legislation which requires that persons with disabilities receive transportation services equal to those available on the fixed route service.

It is the policy of Pullman Transit that, when viewed in their entirety, services, programs, facilities, and communications provided by Pullman Transit, directly or by a contracted service provider, are readily accessible and usable to individuals with disabilities to the maximum extent possible. (49 CFR 37.105)
Approved EquipmentPassengers will be transported provided the lift and vehicle can physically accommodate them, unless doing so is inconsistent with legitimate safety requirements (e.g. the combined weight of the wheelchair/occupant exceeds that of the lift specifications). Additionally, Pullman Transit can accommodate mobility devices that meet following minimum standards:
Wheelchair
  • means a mobility aid belonging to any class of three or more wheels, usable indoors, designed or modified for and use by individuals with mobility impairments, whether manually operated or powered.
  • Walkers must be collapsible and stored between seats or in the vehicle’s trunk.
  • The mobility device must be in good working order, with batteries charged, tires inflated, brakes working, and all parts secure. (49 CFR 37.3)
Mobility Device BrakesWhen occupying a lift or securement area, it is recommended that passengers apply the brakes on their mobility devices; however, they are not required to do so. With power chairs or scooters, it is recommended that the power switch be turned to the “off” position. Again, this is not mandatory.
Portable Oxygen UseIndividuals with disabilities who use portable oxygen devices are allowed to travel with respirators and properly secured portable oxygen supplies. Oxygen supplies must not obstruct the aisle. (49 CFR 37.167(h))
Securement PolicyOperators will use front and rear tie-downs to secure mobility devices. Operators will secure mobility devices at the strongest parts of the device; however, the passenger can indicate the most optimal tie-down spot. The mobility device will be secured front facing unless otherwise requested by the passenger. Drivers will assist passengers with securement systems, ramps, and seatbelts; however, drivers cannot assist riders using power chairs or scooters with the operation of their equipment. Pullman Transit cannot refuse to transport someone whose mobility device cannot be satisfactorily restrained provided that the mobility device fits within the definition described in Section 3. (49 CFR 37.165)
Stop AnnouncementsStops at major intersections, transfer points, and destination points will be announced on fixed route buses. Transit operators will announce other stops upon request.  (49 CFR 37.167 (a-c))
Personal Care AttendantsA Personal Care Attendant (PCA) may ride with you at no charge. A PCA is someone who travels with, and helps, a rider who is not able to travel alone. You must provide your own PCA if you need one. Please let us know on your application form whether or not you will be using a PCA. This information will guarantee a place for him or her to ride with you. Guests and companions may ride with you on all Pullman Transit Vehicles. Guests and companions must pay regular fare. A companion is anyone who rides with you who is not designated as your PCA. (49 CFR 37 (d))
Service AnimalsA service animal is any guide dog or signal dog individually trained to work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability. (49 CFR 37.3). In order to ride Pullman Transit:
  • The dog must be on a leash, tether or harness, unless use of such a device would interfere with the task the service animal performs or the person’s disability prevents use of such devices.
  • The dog must remain under control of the owner, and behave appropriately at all times.
  • The dog must remain at your feet or on your lap. It may not sit on a vehicle seat.
  • The dog must not be aggressive toward people or other animals. (49 CFR 27.167(d))
Boarding AssistanceOperators shall position the bus to make boarding and de-boarding as easy as possible for everyone, minimize the slope of the ramp, and use the kneeling option as needed. Bus operators shall provide assistance to passengers upon request. Passengers with disabilities shall be allowed adequate time to board and disembark the vehicle.
Maintenance of Lifts or RampsBus operators must test the lift or ramp during the pre-trip inspection. Break down of accessibility equipment must be reported immediately to dispatch. A vehicle with an inoperable lift or ramp must be removed from service as soon as possible and cannot be returned to service until repaired. If there is a lift or ramp failure, a replacement vehicle must be dispatched if the next trip to the destination of any passenger using a mobility device is scheduled in more than 30 minutes. If the next trip to the destination of any passenger using a mobility device is scheduled in 30 minutes or less, a replacement vehicle may be dispatched if available. (49.CFR 37.163)
Priority Seating
Upon request, bus operators shall ask – but not require – passengers to yield priority seating at the front of the bus to seniors and persons with disabilities. Drivers are not required to enforce the priority seating designation beyond making such a request.
Reserved SeatingMobility device securement areas on buses are reserved. Passengers using common mobility aids shall be boarded if the securement areas are not otherwise occupied by a mobility device, regardless of the number of passengers on the bus. Bus operators are required to ask passengers sitting in the securement areas to move to other available seats or to stand.
Suspension of ServiceA rider’s privileges may be suspended for any of the following infractions on any Pullman Transit property, including vehicles, bus stops, or stations:
  • Smoking or carrying a lit pipe, cigar, or cigarette (unless in a designated smoking area).
  • Discarding or dumping litter in places other than the recognized receptacles.
  • Consuming alcoholic beverages or in procession of open-container alcoholic beverages.
  • Loud, raucous, unruly, harmful, or harassing behavior.
  • Engaging in other conduct that is inconsistent with the intended purpose of the transit facility, station, or vehicle. (RCW 9.91.025) 
Complaint ProcessPullman Transit is committed to providing safe, reliable, and accessible transportation options for the community. Pullman Transit has established a Customer Complaint Policy and customers wishing to file a complaint and/or obtain a copy of the Customer Complaint Policy may contact Pullman Transit at (509) 332-6535, or in person at Pullman Transit’s administration office located at 775 NW Guy Street, Pullman, WA,  99163.
Ada Icon