Wheelchair Accessible Taxis

New Taxis will Improve Mobility in Rhode Island

In April 2012, thirteen new accessible taxis were introduced to Rhode Island, greatlyimproving access to transportation for the mobility impaired.  Local taxi companies have purchased these vehicles, with support from the Federal Transit Administration’s New Freedom program.

RIPTA and the RI Division of Public Utilities and Carriers also provided support to help bring these vehicles to Rhode Island.

The taxis will serve seventeen communities in Rhode Island, including Providence, Newport, and Woonsocket.

T.F. Green Airport in Warwick will also be served.

How Do I Arrange for These Taxis?

The accessible taxis operate just like any other licensed taxicabs in Rhode Island.

Rides are arranged by calling the taxi company licensed to operate in your community. Or, you may hail an available cab on the street. If your return trip begins outside the cab company’s licensed territory, it must be arranged in advance and made within 24 hours.

You must have a return trip receipt in order to be picked up outside any company’s assigned service area.

Operating hours vary by company and the number of accessible taxis is limited, so it is best to call and reserve a vehicle in advance.

See below to find a company in your area.

How Do I Board These Taxis?

The new taxis are modified mini-vans.  Passengers using mobility devices board via a ramp which extends from the rear of the vehicle.  Inside the taxi, the vehicle floor has been specially lowered to comfortably accommodate passengers seated in a wheelchair or scooter. All passengers ride in a forward-facing position.

Taxi drivers have been specially trained to assist you on the ramp, and to secure mobility devices within the vehicle to prevent movement during travel.

Passengers using both motorized and non-motorized wheelchairs and scooters can board the taxis. The vehicle ramp and rear compartment can accommodate mobility devices up to 30 inches wide with a total weight of 750 pounds (passenger plus device). Seating for up to four additional taxi passengers is available on the second row bench seat and front passenger seat.

What are the Taxi Fares?

Standard Rhode Island taxi rates will apply to any service provided with these vehicles.

There are no discounts, even if you are eligible for RIPTA ADA services or other transportation through The RIde Program.

There is a $1.00 surcharge for each additional passenger beyond two, even if one of these additional passengers is a personal care attendant. Additional luggage and/or fuel surcharges may also be applied, per RI taxi regulations, but there is no charge for your wheelchair or scooter.

Other Questions?

Call the individual taxi company operating in your area, or RIPTA’s Customer Service line at 781-9400 For TTD use the RI relay at 711.

You may also visit www.GoProvidence.com or www.GoNewport.com to find wheelchair accessible cab service in these areas.