The ability to travel is important to everyone, so all Sun Tran buses offer accessibility features for any rider requesting the service.
Bus Features
- All Sun Tran buses are equipped with lifts or ramps for boarding ease.
- Buses "kneel" to make boarding more convenient.
- Each bus can carry a minimum of two personal mobility devices.
- Most Sun Tran buses have annunciators that announce major bus stops, cross streets and transfer locations.
Wheelchair & Scooter
Measurement Standards
Personal mobility devices have become increasingly diverse in size, design, and functionality. It is important that these devices meet certain design standards in order for you to safely travel by bus.
U.S. Department of Transportation Regulations 49 CFR Parts 27, 37 and 38 specify the development and maintenance of accessibility requirements for "common wheelchair" measurements, and how these requirements are applied to transit vehicles. If you want to travel using Sun Tran, it is important that you comply with these regulations.
What is a "common wheelchair"? As defined by the U.S. Department of Transportation Regulation, it is:
- A three- or four-wheeled device that can be used indoors and is designed for and used by persons with mobility issues.
- 30 inches wide, wheel rim to wheel rim.
- 48 inches long when measured two inches off the ground from the widest part of the wheel to the footrest.
- Weighs no more than 600 pounds when occupied.
Segway®
Only Segways being used as a mobility device by individuals with disabilities are allowed on Sun Tran. Those who wish to board Sun Tran with a Segway need to meet eligibility requirements established by the City of Tucson ADA Paratransit Eligibility Office, 791-5409. Individuals meeting the requirement will be issued an ID card that states, "Segway Approved." This ID must be presented upon boarding. To safely secure a Segway, the use of at least two 15-inch securement loops is recommended, but three loops are preferred. Training on how to board and secure a Segway device is recommended before boarding a bus in service, and may be provided by contacting Sun Tran at 792-9222.
Boarding the Bus
- Plan to arrive at the bus stop at least five minutes early. Be sure you are inside the bus shelter or near the bus stop so the driver can see you.
- If you require the use of the lift or ramp, please stay about eight feet away from the bus so that the lift or ramp can be lowered safely.
- If you need the kneeler, please let your coach operator know.
- To avoid turning around in the securement bay, you may find it easier to board by backing your device onto the lift.
- Please turn off mechanized devices and lock the wheels while on the bus lift and again once you are safely secured.
- If visually impaired, upon boarding we encourage you to inform the coach operator which bus stop you need.
Securing Mobility Devices
- The coach operator will help you fasten your wheelchair or scooter in the securement bay. A three-point securement is preferred, but a two-point must be used to meet safety guidelines. When properly in place, the mobility device must not move more than two inches in any direction.
- If you prefer to secure your own wheelchair or scooter, the operator will verify that you are safe before operating the bus.
- For your additional safety, a shoulder strap and lap belt are available for your use.
Exiting the Bus
- To alert the coach operator that you want to exit the bus, approximately one block before you'd like to get off, press the tape or pull the cord located near you along the windows.
- When the bus comes to a stop, you may want to allow other passengers to exit first so the aisle will be free for you to maneuver.
- The coach operator will release the securement straps and guide you to the door.
Paratransit Service
Van Tran's paratransit service is available to ADA eligible residents.