The bus bays must be modified in such a way that a wheelchair user will have no problem wheeling himself directly from the bus bay, onto the ramp and into the bus. The specifications also require that all bus shelters are equipped with bus route identification signs that have a background that contrasts well with the letters. Regulation also requires that the signs must have a matte or non-glare finish. Even specifications of the character sizes and proportions and minimum heights for overhead signs are discussed in the Handbook. Accessible transportation systems are also gaining popularity in Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Italy, The Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Finland, Canada, France, London, Germany and the United Kingdom.
Mobility increases one's opportunities for employment, entertainment, information and education.
Although mobility is something that the majority of us take for granted, there is a significant number of people amongst us for whom this constitutes a major problem. In order to help this group of people to achieve a greater degree of mobility, an accessible public transport system is necessary. Very few elderly people and those with disabilities are fortunate enough to acquire their own vehicles or obtain rides from members of their families or friends as and when they like. Further, in view of the ageing population and the decline in the number of young people who could provide such transportation for their elderly or disabled relatives, there is an increasing need for an accessible transport system, which would undoubtedly increase mobility as well as their sense of independence, while, at the same time, reducing the burden on the younger and non-disabled members of the community. An accessible transport system is useful not only for elderly and disabled people, but also serves the need of people with children on prams or pushchairs, or even those with luggage and heavy shopping bags.