Uber’s mission is to connect everyone to safe, reliable rides that arrive within minutes at the tap of a button. We know that riders with disabilities face a variety of problems accessing on-demand transportation in San Diego. And while these problems are not unique to our city, there is more that can be done and Uber is proud to be a part of the solution.
Uber San Diego is proud to announce a new platform that will allow those needing an extra hand or access to wheelchair accessible vehicles to request safe and reliable rides at the tap of a button.
We’ve partnered with Access to Independence, a non-profit organization that works to provide services to people with disabilities to maximize their independence and fully integrate them into their communities. We’ve launched two products. With uberASSIST, uberX partners have received training on the necessary knowledge and safety requirements for those with accessibility needs. With UberWAV, we are growing the wheelchair accessible vehicle supply, transforming disabled transit and allowing on demand pickups within minutes instead of days.
HOW TO REQUEST AN ACCESS VEHICLE:
1. Open your Uber app.
2. Select “ACCESS”on the vehicle icon slider.
3. Select one of two options:
| Vehicle Option | Details | Typical Vehicle Type |
|---|---|---|
| UberWAV | Drivers of these vehicles are knowledgeable of accessibility needs and are accommodating for riders who require wheelchair accessible vehicles with a ramp or hydraulic lift for transportation. |   |
| uberASSIST | uberASSIST is designed for additional assistance for members of the senior and disability communities. Drivers are specifically trained to assist riders into the vehicles and can accommodate folding wheelchairs, walkers, and scooters. Note: uberASSIST vehicles do not have accessible ramps. |  |
4. Set your location and request your ride!
Pro Tips
- Need a vehicle with wheelchair accessibility and a ramp or hydraulic lift? Request UberWAV
- Need a helping hand or a vehicle that can accommodate a folding wheelchair, walker or scooter? Request uberASSIST
- After requesting, contact your driver ahead of time with any specific needs.
We’re dedicated to increasing the mobility, efficiency and freedom of all riders and drivers with accessibility needs. With VoiceOver iOS compatibility, the Uber app also provides a safe and reliable transportation option for the visually impaired community. Furthermore, the app includes various text prompts and visual features, meaning that audio is not needed to use Uber, ensuring effective communication for those who are deaf or hard-of-hearing.