Accessible cabs not reaching disabled people

Windsor has more than enough accessible taxis to meet the current demand, but one councillor says most disabled people aren't aware the cabs even exist.

Coun. Percy Hatfield is a member of the city's licensing commission and said there should be a public campaign to get the word out.

"The problem with the accessible cabs is few people even know they're out there and they're the same price as a regular cab," said Hatfield. "So some people are booking Handi Transit weeks in advance or trying to get on a Transit Windsor bus, but you have the accessible cabs and the drivers can't charge you more than able-bodied people using the cabs. So it's just a marketing thing."

There are seven accessible taxis servicing Windsor.

"My challenge to the industry was partner with the St. Clair College or the University [of Windsor], come up with some sort of public service announcement, get it on the local airwaves reminding people that there are accessible cabs out there," said Hatfield. "You don't have to be stuck in your home. You can hop in a cab and it's not going to be all that expensive."

Hatfield said taxis are waiting on stand-by to service those with disabilities in Windsor-Essex.