The complaint filed with the division alleged Amtrak”has broken and continues to violate the ADA by failing to make current stations in its own intercity rail transport system easily accessible to and usable by people with disabilities”
“Transport is the linchpin of accessibility for those who have disabilities into the whole economic, social, and cultural advantages of the nation,” explained Eric Dreiband, assistant attorney general of the civil rights department, in regards to the settlement this past year. “The arrangement is a historic success for people with disabilities, Amtrak, the principle of law, and also the guarantee of equal chance for all Americans.”
The business said its actions”not only simplifies the litigation that was registered, but more to the point it builds upon and shields significant facets of Amtrak’s long standing ADA compliance efforts.”
Thomas Morgan intends to be among these submitting a claim.
Upon arriving in the Ashland, Virginia, Amtrak station, he discovered that the whole facility inaccessible. Morgan was unaware that there was no wheelchair access in the channel, the only means to board the train was stairs.
“Ordinarily I am not a massive advocate for handicap because I would rather talk it out rather than bother others,” Morgan tells CBS News. “For me personally, my handicap isn’t really essential to my own life. It becomes evident to me as it becomes a problem.”
Morgan contacted Amtrak, along with the firm put in a lift on one of both platforms in Ashland.
This is a temporary, yet inconsistent solution. Morgan needed to get in touch with the channel before coming, and sometimes the train could return on the track minus the elevator, stranding Morgan.
Following the DOJ settlement, Amtrak will operate over 10 years to look at least 135 channels to be available, complete structure at 90 of these stations, and also have 45 more under construction. This will give people with mobility disabilities that the ability to travel freely.
“That is wonderful. I meanthis is advancement for me,” explained Morgan.
