Investigation of wheelchair instability during transport in large accessible transit vehicles

1. Investigation of wheelchair instability during transport in large accessible transit vehicles Zdravko Salipur, MEng; Karen Frost, PhD; Gina Bertocci, PhD, PE

2. Aim • Better understand wheelchair instabilities related to wheelchair tiedown and occupant restraint system (WTORS) disuse and misuse on large accessible transit vehicles (LATVs). • Relevance • LATVs may be less safe for wheelchair-seated passengers than for non-wheelchair-using passengers. • Transit provider practices vary regarding use of WTORSs. Recent research suggests high levels of WTORS disuse and misuse.

3. Methods • We retrospectively reviewed 295 video surveillance records of wheelchair passenger trips on LATVs. • Quantified and categorized disuse and misuse based on WTORS configurations. • Categorized wheelchair and wheelchair passenger instability based on severity, type, and direction. • Examined 3 adverse events involving severe wheelchair and/or passenger instability in detail.

5. Results • 20.3% of records involved wheelchair-related adverse events. • 95% minor instabilities. • 5% severe instabilities. • Scooters most unstable. • WTORS not used in most cases. • Often lap belt misused to secure wheelchair rather than passenger and shoulder belt never used.

6. Conclusions • Wheelchair-related adverse events can occur during normal LATV driving maneuvers. • Adverse events might have been prevented by: • Using all 4 tiedowns. • Using lap and shoulder belts. • Applying wheelchair brakes. • Turning off power wheelchairs.