WDW -Disability Access Service (DAS) - ARCHIVED THREAD; no longer vslid

[Maggie'sMom]

I just wanted to share our experiences over MLK weekend. We went both Sunday and Monday of the holiday to MK. We were offsite guests, so we chose our FP+ options there. Being onsite would have the advantage of choosing in advance the time frames you want.

Thanks for sharing your experiences from the weekend. We're going the last week of May and will be in the parks over Memorial Day weekend. This will be the first time I've used the DAS. I never used the GAC on prior trips, and with fastpasses and sensory breaks, we were able to mostly handle the parks without issue. But with FP+, particularly the tiering moreso than the limit of 3 FP, I can see us having a much rougher trip.

Our biggest, and really only, meltdown on our last trip occurred when Splash had technical difficulties and they had everyone leave the line. We were the next to board when it shut down. Knowing how much DD loves Splash, I just knew we were headed for problems. We practiced her breathing, used some deep pressure, and she kept a whole lot calmer than I expected, but she did get a little loud when expressing her frustration. She really has difficulty understanding how loud her voice is at times. But she was using appropriate words to tell me how upset she was and she wasn't screaming or yelling at the top of her lungs. She was just loud enough that other people could hear her clearly. Of course, some jerk had to walk by and make a rude remark to us.

ETA: When Splash went down, we were given a "free to use anywhere" fastpass because it was getting late in the evening and Splash wasn't going to be running again before park close. That did help DD keep calm because I kept stressing that we could go ride something else that she liked. But of course, she was still stressing about missing out on her favorite ride in the MK.

 

[CUGrad]

Hi - new here but I've read so much and learned a lot so far. In reading the first post in this thread it talks about people in wheelchairs not needing the DAS. I have yet to read an experience that someone being in a wheelchair has had. My DD (age 15) has CP and is in a power chair that is oddly wide due to some customizations that she needs. When we have been other places and gone through typical queues, we usually end up taking out a few poles as we go. :-(. We plan to go to GS upon arrival because she also has issues waiting in the sun too long (the chair gets super hot) and she can get frustrated and become a grabber/hitter. Our trip is the 2nd week of April which looks so-so with the crowd calendar but it's still in between spring break and Easter. I'm apprehensive as I'm sure many are. Does anyone out there have experiences that could help me understand what to expect? I think our first park is going to be DHS. Thanks!

 

[aaarcher86]

Hi - new here but I've read so much and learned a lot so far. In reading the first post in this thread it talks about people in wheelchairs not needing the DAS. I have yet to read an experience that someone being in a wheelchair has had. My DD (age 15) has CP and is in a power chair that is oddly wide due to some customizations that she needs. When we have been other places and gone through typical queues, we usually end up taking out a few poles as we go. :-(. We plan to go to GS upon arrival because she also has issues waiting in the sun too long (the chair gets super hot) and she can get frustrated and become a grabber/hitter. Our trip is the 2nd week of April which looks so-so with the crowd calendar but it's still in between spring break and Easter. I'm apprehensive as I'm sure many are. Does anyone out there have experiences that could help me understand what to expect? I think our first park is going to be DHS. Thanks!

If her needs are met with her mobility device they won't issue a DAS. As far as the sun, nearly all the ques are indoors/covered so I don't believe they will issue a DAS for that.

 

[twinboysmom]

I have a quick question I can't seem to find the answer to. Our next trip with our 4 year old twins with severe ASD we have decided to get a DAS. We would like to get one for each child as they enjoy different rides and we do split up. Will this be an issue oris it one for each family? Also we will be traveling with another family of 4 (my sister, her DH, and their 2 kids). While we won't always be together they want to ride with the boys as well. Will they be able to accompany us when we use the DAS cards? Thanks.

 

[CUGrad]

If her needs are met with her mobility device they won't issue a DAS. As far as the sun, nearly all the ques are indoors/covered so I don't believe they will issue a DAS for that.

That's part of my question, if they say we're all set without the DAS, what does that mean logistically? It's been a couple of years since we've been and, since she's always been in a wheelchair, I'm not familiar with the queues. I know there are a few rides where she can stay in her chair and they had a special car, boat, etc.

 

[seidelhd]

Hi - new here but I've read so much and learned a lot so far. In reading the first post in this thread it talks about people in wheelchairs not needing the DAS. I have yet to read an experience that someone being in a wheelchair has had. My DD (age 15) has CP and is in a power chair that is oddly wide due to some customizations that she needs. When we have been other places and gone through typical queues, we usually end up taking out a few poles as we go. :-(. We plan to go to GS upon arrival because she also has issues waiting in the sun too long (the chair gets super hot) and she can get frustrated and become a grabber/hitter. Our trip is the 2nd week of April which looks so-so with the crowd calendar but it's still in between spring break and Easter. I'm apprehensive as I'm sure many are. Does anyone out there have experiences that could help me understand what to expect? I think our first park is going to be DHS. Thanks!

My DD12 is in a wheelchair, G-tube fed, non-verbal, etc. Prior to Oct 9, we have always used a GAC with no problem that allowed us to use alternative entrances (before she had her wheelchair, we got a stroller as a wheelchair stamp).

We were last there Oct 13-14 and did get a DAS card. My wife had to plead my daughter's case however, in order to get it and some other accommodations. It was disturbing, upsetting, and not very "magical." We went to DHS first also. The line at Guest Services was much shorter than at MK the next day, so I think that is a good plan for you.

We are supposed to go back for a week in April over Spring Break, but are strongly considering canceling our trip. We still have NE tickets, so we'll be going back at some point, hopefully after the current system is tweaked and improved. Good luck!

 

[aaarcher86]

I have a quick question I can't seem to find the answer to. Our next trip with our 4 year old twins with severe ASD we have decided to get a DAS. We would like to get one for each child as they enjoy different rides and we do split up. Will this be an issue oris it one for each family? Also we will be traveling with another family of 4 (my sister, her DH, and their 2 kids). While we won't always be together they want to ride with the boys as well. Will they be able to accompany us when we use the DAS cards? Thanks.

This is less clear cut. Lots of different reports saying different things happened.

They should be issuing you a DAS for each child. However, they have been reports of them splitting the group up on each DAS. So, 1 DAS would have 2 people and another would have 2 people - and if you wanted to ride together you just get the same return time on both. I assume it's to prevent doubling up.

As far as the other portion of your family... the DAS is good for up to 6 people. They might put all 8 on there, but I wouldn't count on it since they are not immediate family members. They will obviously make exceptions for 2 adults and their 5 kids on the 6 person rule, but with 2 cards/8 people I don't think they'll bend it much. They might just put 4 people on each DAS card which would allow all 8 of you to ride at once with both cards having the same return time... but again... I think they're really trying to buckle down on the amount of cards/people's ability to use 2 cards for doubling up.

 

[aaarcher86]

That's part of my question, if they say we're all set without the DAS, what does that mean logistically? It's been a couple of years since we've been and, since she's always been in a wheelchair, I'm not familiar with the queues. I know there are a few rides where she can stay in her chair and they had a special car, boat, etc.

Logistically, you'd basically be just going to the ride and either going into the regular que (if it's accessible... most are) or heading into the WC line. Can she transfer or will she need an accessible vehicle?

I'm not sure if Sue posted a list yet of rides that give WC return cards versus having accessible ques.

 

[twinboysmom]

This is less clear cut. Lots of different reports saying different things happened.

They should be issuing you a DAS for each child. However, they have been reports of them splitting the group up on each DAS. So, 1 DAS would have 2 people and another would have 2 people - and if you wanted to ride together you just get the same return time on both. I assume it's to prevent doubling up.

As far as the other portion of your family... the DAS is good for up to 6 people. They might put all 8 on there, but I wouldn't count on it since they are not immediate family members. They will obviously make exceptions for 2 adults and their 5 kids on the 6 person rule, but with 2 cards/8 people I don't think they'll bend it much. They might just put 4 people on each DAS card which would allow all 8 of you to ride at once with both cards having the same return time... but again... I think they're really trying to buckle down on the amount of cards/people's ability to use 2 cards for doubling up.

Thanks. I guess we will just have to see how it goes. The cousins just want to ride a few rides together (as they should be able to). In over 40 trips I have never been THAT guest but if they can't accmodate to give us two passes I might just become that person.

 

[aaarcher86]

Thanks. I guess we will just have to see how it goes. The cousins just want to ride a few rides together (as they should be able to). In over 40 trips I have never been THAT guest but if they can't accmodate to give us two passes I might just become that person.

I'm not saying they won't give you two passes, but they might split your party up on them, and may not allow 8 people.

You could also schedule your FP+ reservations with the cousins so you don't have another worry about the DAS.

 

[CUGrad]

Logistically, you'd basically be just going to the ride and either going into the regular que (if it's accessible... most are) or heading into the WC line. Can she transfer or will she need an accessible vehicle?

I'm not sure if Sue posted a list yet of rides that give WC return cards versus having accessible ques.

We'd prefer she stay in her chair if possible. She can never transfer to another type of wheelchair. She's needs 100% assist and is closing in on 90 pounds at 5'4". At our local amusement park, built in the 70's, the wrapping nature of the lines are where we have trouble as well as the widths. I've never been able to find info on the lines so if it exists somewhere here, that would help a ton.

 

[SueM in MN]

Hi - new here but I've read so much and learned a lot so far. In reading the first post in this thread it talks about people in wheelchairs not needing the DAS. I have yet to read an experience that someone being in a wheelchair has had. My DD (age 15) has CP and is in a power chair that is oddly wide due to some customizations that she needs. When we have been other places and gone through typical queues, we usually end up taking out a few poles as we go. :-(. We plan to go to GS upon arrival because she also has issues waiting in the sun too long (the chair gets super hot) and she can get frustrated and become a grabber/hitter. Our trip is the 2nd week of April which looks so-so with the crowd calendar but it's still in between spring break and Easter. I'm apprehensive as I'm sure many are. Does anyone out there have experiences that could help me understand what to expect? I think our first park is going to be DHS. Thanks!

As was already noted, most queues are either inside or shaded.

Almost all attractions are wheelchair accessible thru the regular line.
My daughter has not brought her power wheelchair - using it all day in theme park conditions would be too mentally and physically tiring for her. She doesn't like driving when it's busy (like Christmas shopping) even though she is a good driver and has no problem driving around the mall at other times.
At WDW, the driver of a power wheelchair needs to be constantly alert and ready to stop at any time. People pop out in front of you all the time without even noticing you.
I'm not saying not to have her use her power wheelchair - just to think about the challenges - especially as you mentioned your daughter can get frustrated and hit.

Our daughter can get the same way, so to avoid her getting to overwhelmed, we bring her manual wheelchair, which is less frustrating, even if it is giving up some freedom.

This is less clear cut. Lots of different reports saying different things happened.

They should be issuing you a DAS for each child. However, they have been reports of them splitting the group up on each DAS. So, 1 DAS would have 2 people and another would have 2 people - and if you wanted to ride together you just get the same return time on both. I assume it's to prevent doubling up.

As far as the other portion of your family... the DAS is good for up to 6 people. They might put all 8 on there, but I wouldn't count on it since they are not immediate family members. They will obviously make exceptions for 2 adults and their 5 kids on the 6 person rule, but with 2 cards/8 people I don't think they'll bend it much. They might just put 4 people on each DAS card which would allow all 8 of you to ride at once with both cards having the same return time... but again... I think they're really trying to buckle down on the amount of cards/people's ability to use 2 cards for doubling up.

The very most they will give a DAS card for is 10 people.
Anything over 6 total requires a manager.

I'm not saying they won't give you two passes, but they might split your party up on them, and may not allow 8 people.

You could also schedule your FP+ reservations with the cousins so you don't have another worry about the DAS.

With ONE DAS card, the maximum is 10, as I mentioned.
With more than one card in a group, what people have been reporting is that the total for the entire party will still be no more then 10, but will be split up between the cards.

We'd prefer she stay in her chair if possible. She can never transfer to another type of wheelchair. She's needs 100% assist and is closing in on 90 pounds at 5'4". At our local amusement park, built in the 70's, the wrapping nature of the lines are where we have trouble as well as the widths. I've never been able to find info on the lines so if it exists somewhere here, that would help a ton.

Her manual wheelchair is 26 inches wide and 48 inches long and it fits everywhere.

A 'standard' wheelchair is 31 inches wide and 48 inches long and lines are at least 36 inches wide. As long as a wheelchair is no bigger than that 'standard' it should fit in lines.
I'll reply a little later with info about wheelchair accessible ride cars.

There are a few attractions where the line is not accessible and there is a special entrance or a special waiting area. It may be because the regular line is not accessible, because there is a limit on the people with special needs able to be in the attraction at one time because of evacuation limits or because the waiting area is small.
For wheelchair return times, whether they give them out or not depends on how busy it is. When we were at WDW from October 25 thru November 9, 2013, there were no attractions giving wheelchair return times when we went.
People who were there during the holidays reported getting wheelchair return times.

 

[Sunnywho]

We plan to go to GS upon arrival because she also has issues waiting in the sun too long (the chair gets super hot) and she can get frustrated and become a grabber/hitter.

The grabber/hitter part would affect her ability to be in lines
Go to guest services and ask

 

[CUGrad]

As was already noted, most queues are either inside or shaded.

Almost all attractions are wheelchair accessible thru the regular line.
My daughter has not brought her power wheelchair - using it all day in theme park conditions would be too mentally and physically tiring for her. She doesn't like driving when it's busy (like Christmas shopping) even though she is a good driver and has no problem driving around the mall at other times.
At WDW, the driver of a power wheelchair needs to be constantly alert and ready to stop at any time. People pop out in front of you all the time without even noticing you.
I'm not saying not to have her use her power wheelchair - just to think about the challenges - especially as you mentioned your daughter can get frustrated and hit.

Our daughter can get the same way, so to avoid her getting to overwhelmed, we bring her manual wheelchair, which is less frustrating, even if it is giving up some freedom.

Her manual wheelchair is 26 inches wide and 48 inches long and it fits everywhere.

A 'standard' wheelchair is 31 inches wide and 48 inches long and lines are at least 36 inches wide. As long as a wheelchair is no bigger than that 'standard' it should fit in lines.
I'll reply a little later with info about wheelchair accessible ride cars.

There are a few attractions where the line is not accessible and there is a special entrance or a special waiting area. It may be because the regular line is not accessible, because there is a limit on the people with special needs able to be in the attraction at one time because of evacuation limits or because the waiting area is small.
For wheelchair return times, whether they give them out or not depends on how busy it is. When we were at WDW from October 25 thru November 9, 2013, there were no attractions giving wheelchair return times when we went.
People who were there during the holidays reported getting wheelchair return times.

Thanks for so much information, Sue! Our DD is an inconsistent driver so we will be driving her using the attendant joystick (she's outgrown her manual chair). We've had her in this chair in the wheelchair cars. None of us could remember for sure last night so we went back to pictures! I think her chair is just a tiny bit bigger than your daughter's. Good to know that her chair fits. That makes me feel a lot better. Her main frustration would be from waiting for long periods. She could probably do 15-20 minutes but I could see her completely freaking out at 30-60+ minutes. I'll be putting together a touring plan and we get there for rope drop so that should help with wait times in general. The info someone else wrote about using FP will also play into it. I'm the sort of person who likes to go into things with all the info I can. DD has a lot to do with that. Thanks again everyone!

 

[Rowanonfire]

I think I've got all my planning sorted but still a little unsure about MK!

As a wheelchair user with no DAS, I've not bothered with FP+ for PP, BTMR, SM or JC as these have separate entrances for WC's. Is this correct? I don't want to get to the ride and just be directed into the normal queue, especially since most of those rides mentioned tend to have the longest lines in the park. I really can't wait in any significant length line so trying to make my FP+ go as far as possible!!

 

[des2jc]

I have been doing a ton of reading on the new DAS system and I am still so confused. I'm hoping you all can help me. My husband was recently diagnosed with PTSD from his former job, Police Sergeant. He is currently on disability due to it. He does not do well with crowds, gets overheated and is extremely cautious with us, his family, around strangers. First, will he be able to get a DAS pass? He is willing to bring a note from his doctor describing his "triggers". Then, if he does get a DAS, how does this work with Fast Pass +? Do we still get three fast passes a day? How do we incorporate the DAS card? Our trip is in June and I am extremely nervous about this trip with all the new changes. I really want it to be great for our kids. Thank you all for your help!! I love this board!

 

[lovethattink]

I have been doing a ton of reading on the new DAS system and I am still so confused. I'm hoping you all can help me. My husband was recently diagnosed with PTSD from his former job, Police Sergeant. He is currently on disability due to it. He does not do well with crowds, gets overheated and is extremely cautious with us, his family, around strangers. First, will he be able to get a DAS pass? He is willing to bring a note from his doctor describing his "triggers". Then, if he does get a DAS, how does this work with Fast Pass +? Do we still get three fast passes a day? How do we incorporate the DAS card? Our trip is in June and I am extremely nervous about this trip with all the new changes. I really want it to be great for our kids. Thank you all for your help!! I love this board!

Chances are, GS will not look at a doctor's note.

You or he will need to let GS know generally what happens as a result of his triggers.

For heat, GS has a list of recommended attractions and areas to go for air conditioning. Ask about this. At MK they explained to us where and circled each area on the map rather than giving us a list.

GS recommends using both DAS and FP+. With DAS there is a return time, the standby wait minus 10 minutes. You may return any time AFTER that return time. You may only hold one return time. For example, PP was broken down in our return window, so we went to Mermaid for a new return time. The new time negates the old time. For FP+ you must return within the window listed. If you don't that FP+ is void.

 

[Vidia2]

I have been doing a ton of reading on the new DAS system and I am still so confused. I'm hoping you all can help me. My husband was recently diagnosed with PTSD from his former job, Police Sergeant. He is currently on disability due to it. He does not do well with crowds, gets overheated and is extremely cautious with us, his family, around strangers. First, will he be able to get a DAS pass? He is willing to bring a note from his doctor describing his "triggers". Then, if he does get a DAS, how does this work with Fast Pass +? Do we still get three fast passes a day? How do we incorporate the DAS card? Our trip is in June and I am extremely nervous about this trip with all the new changes. I really want it to be great for our kids. Thank you all for your help!! I love this board!

If your husband does not do well in crowds and gets overheated I would suggest that you choose a different time of year to visit if at all possible. A DAS won't help (if he were able to get one) with the crowds in the park that time of year or with the extreme heat and humidity.

 

[Disneylvr]

I just read on another site that you can now get 3 DAS return times at once? Is this true? I am hoping that it is!

 

[aaarcher86]

I've only seen that reported by 1 particular blogger. Bloggers are a dime a dozen.

I'd mark it as a rumor until there's something official, or at the very least until more people report it. Hell, we can't even get a consistent yes or no in regards to obtaining a DAS out the outside GS locations! I'd think something like that would have something more official attached to it as CMs would have to be alerted to the process since it's the basic function of the DAS.