Beyond Ramps: Multi-Layered Barriers and Solutions in the Public Transportation Experience of Individuals with Special Needs

Abstract

Accessibility in contemporary societies is not only the right to reach physical spaces but also a fundamental determinant of individuals’ equitable participation in education, employment, health, and social life. This study aims to examine in depth the experiences of individuals with special needs and their parents regarding public transport services, and to present these experiences holistically through an explanatory and supportive perspective from service providers (drivers). The study employed a qualitative case study design. Participants comprised eight individuals from different disability groups, eight parents, and four public transport drivers. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using content analysis, yielding six themes and 14 subthemes. Findings indicate that accessibility is not merely a matter of technical compliance; instead, physical, informational, attitudinal, and psychological dimensions interact to form a complex system. Physical barriers co-occur with inadequacies at the level of stops and sidewalks. In access to information, the absence of voice announcements and visual displays, limited route/route–timetable coverage, and failure to communicate service changes come to the fore. Attitudinal barriers manifest as driver indifference, rudeness, and a lack of empathy, alongside societal insensitivity and disrespect, as well as low awareness. Safety and comfort issues include the risk of injury, inadequate safety equipment, overcrowding, excessive noise and stimuli, and climate control problems. Improving the public transport process requires physical/infrastructural upgrades (vehicle design; stop/sidewalk arrangements), information–technology solutions (audio–visual announcements, mobile applications, accessible wayfinding), driver training, public awareness, and family/individual supports, as well as inspection–sanction mechanisms and targeted special transport services.