Information on wheelchair transportation safety can prevent death.
Riding in motor vehicles can be dangerous for healthy travelers, not to mention a disabled person who uses a wheelchair. It is vital, therefore, to be informed about wheelchair transportation safety.
Significance
The significance of wheelchair transportation safety has become clear in light of recent events. During a routine bus ride, an 81-year-old woman in Michigan lost her life after being catapulted from her wheelchair. Although it was securely attached to the bus, her lap restraints were not in use during the accident.
Prevention
Wheelchair users should consider strategies to prevent injuries during trips on motor vehicles. It's best to be removed from the wheelchair, and to use the vehicle's seat and safety belt instead. If removal from the wheelchair is not an option, it should be secured to the vehicle facing frontward, and any safety restraints should be worn by the disabled person.
Solution
Several groups are working on improving wheelchair transportation safety. In 2005, the State of the Science (SOS) workshop was conducted in Orlando, Florida. Some of the safety transportation issues discussed included research on wheelchair structure and securement and the identification of deficiencies in current systems.
Tags: wheelchair transportation safety, from wheelchair, transportation safety, wheelchair transportation, disabled person
