Traveling by Greyhound Bus

Thanks to more public awareness and the ADA, there have been a myriad of improvements in transportation for the handicapped. I recently received new information from the Greyhound Bus Lines on their provisions for persons with disabilities. There are many guidelines and I can only touch on a few, but if you’re thinking of traveling by bus, call their ADA Hotline at (800) 752-4841.

Make sure you advise the bus line of your wish to travel and your specific needs at least 48 hours in advance. Greyhound will provide assistance with boarding and de-boarding any time it is requested, such as, at transfers, meals, or rest stops. This is included even if you are traveling with a companion, care giver or service dog. You may also request a bus with a lift if you’re in a chair. They have lifts, but total weight can’t exceed 600 pounds and your chair must be less than 30” wide by 48” in length.

If you can travel alone, fine. But, if you need an attendant, be aware that in some instances, a caregiver may be able to purchase a ½ price ticket. This is a voluntary program by Greyhound, it is not government regulated.

If your mobility aid is to be stored in the baggage compartment, remember its dimensions are 33”x33”x48” and the maximum weight limit is 200lbs., anything exceeding these standards will not be accepted. Arrive early to allow sufficient time for the storage to be accomplished.

Service animals are permitted with a few sensible restrictions, such as the animal not taking space in the aisle or sitting on the seats, and not being a direct threat to the other passengers.
You can carry spare oxygen tanks on the bus, two aboard and two in the baggage compartment. The containers may not exceed 4.5” wide or 26” long. You are responsible for having enough oxygen to make the trip, or, if necessary changing your tank during travel. The tanks in the luggage compartment must have protective cases and safety valve caps.

The company advises calling 48 hours before your trip, however if the journey is an emergency, call them, they will make every effort to help you on short notice, even to the point of advising other transportation carriers about your needs on another leg of the journey.

It is obvious that large companies are striving to adhere to the requirements of the ADA. This gives them a better corporate appearance and aids their bottom line. But, the best benefit of all is the ease with which persons with physical handicaps are able to move around the country. No longer are they house bound because of handicaps, the sky’s the limit in travel opportunities. Call your favorite travel venue next time you wish to go somewhere and inquire about their offerings.

Greyhound Disabilities Travel Assistance: (800) 752-4841
Some other helpful Greyhound numbers: Deaf/TTY/TDD: (800) 345-3109
Spanish: (800) 531-5332 ADA Compliance (800)755-2357

Belton Smith

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