INTERCITY TRAVEL AND THE DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING TRAVELLER: AN ANALYSIS OF THE CURRENT STATE OF ACCESSIBILITY (REPRINTED WITH REVISIONS MAR. 1990. )

This report presents an analysis of Canadian intercity transportation facilities and their accessibility to deaf and hard of hearing travellers. It places particular emphasis on both physical design of facilities and the availability of assisting devices. Data were collected through 1) personal visits to and observations of airports, train stations, and bus and ferry terminals across Canada, and 2) a mail-out survey to deaf and hard of hearing individuals across the country. The primary goal of this survey was the identification of specific problems encountered in travel, as well as a general overview of accessibility. In addition to site visits and the survey, interviews and discussions were held with management and staff at all transport facilities visited. Following an analysis and discussion of all findings, recommendations are made for improvements to transportation facilities as well as for further research and development which will be of benefit to deaf and hard of hearing travellers, and to those without hearing impairments (A).