new blog: DOJ: WDW Must Permit Segways in Theme Parks

[POOHsie]

I can just see the Dis thread now: Drinking Around the World on Segways.

The kids want them in the parks because they are fast. The EPCOT CMs zipping around on Segways after EPCOT closes need to be seen to understand how fast Segways can go. If Segways could be rented, people will drive them fast, even in crowds, one-handed, no-handed, and safety be da**med. Not only that, in a party of 2 or more, the group will rent them because a walking person could not keep up. So groups of Segways. A nightmare!

I have an ECV that I bring to Disneyworld visits. I agree with Disney for creating a disability version Segway compatible for park touring. Slower, 3-4 wheels, boring but safe, like an ECV or powerchair.

Honestly, if regular Segways are allowed in to Disney parks, I will serioiusly consider giving up being a Disney visitor, for safety reasons. I am sure there are plenty of WDW visitors who have my concerns about this issue.

 

[SueM in MN]

The updated ADA Regulations, which go into effect March 15, 2011s, make a distinction between "wheelchair" and "other mobility device".

A "wheelchair" can include any wheelchair or power chair or ECV which is primarily manufactured for people with mobility/stamina related disabilities. The regulations require that these be allowed, basically without any restrictions and without questioning a person's need for it.

An "other mobility device". which the Segway is specifically designed as, can be restricted in use by any venue and also the venue can require proof of disability.

And, as I mentioned in an earlier post, there is a major difference between a person who uses an ECV regularly and a renter. And also there is a major difference between a Park Regular (such as me) and someone who is not used to the Parks.

I did also post that it would be nice if the rental places gave more instruction, there would be no reason (or legal right ) for people who own their equipment to have to provide proof they can use their own device.

 

[dclfun]

I can just see the Dis thread now: Drinking Around the World on Segways.

The kids want them in the parks because they are fast. The EPCOT CMs zipping around on Segways after EPCOT closes need to be seen to understand how fast Segways can go. If Segways could be rented, people will drive them fast, even in crowds, one-handed, no-handed, and safety be da**med. Not only that, in a party of 2 or more, the group will rent them because a walking person could not keep up. So groups of Segways. A nightmare!

I have an ECV that I bring to Disneyworld visits. I agree with Disney for creating a disability version Segway compatible for park touring. Slower, 3-4 wheels, boring but safe, like an ECV or powerchair.

Honestly, if regular Segways are allowed in to Disney parks, I will serioiusly consider giving up being a Disney visitor, for safety reasons. I am sure there are plenty of WDW visitors who have my concerns about this issue.

Same here. I travel with my adult children and grandchildren who are babies/toddlers and my service dog, none of whom I am willing to see put in harms way. I say it all the time here, -we live in an entitlement society and nothing...I mean nothing...will prevent an "entitled" person from using any excuse to bring a Segway into the park if they want to use one, including lying about having a disability. A handicapped parking pass? Easy to come by...borrow one from grandma or buy an illegal replica and head to the parks. Meanwhile I'm not going to get worked up over this until there is real information *from* WDW directly.---Kathy

 

[SueM in MN]

I think this is as good a point as any to close this thread.
We don't know yet what the outcome exactly will be and, at any rate, we are not the ones making the policies.