Scooter or seat when on bus?

[Simba's Mom]

I always used to transfer from my scooter onto a seat on the bus. Besides, there was a sign on the bus window that said that scooter riders must transfer to a regular bus seat, as it wasn't safe to sit on your scooter when the bus was in motion. However, on my last trip to WDW, I noticed that on every bus, the bus driver automatically seat belted me in sitting on the scooter-didn't even ask me whether I wanted to transfer, and the sign on the window was gone. In the past, I have been asked a few times whether I wanted to transfer to a seat or stay on my scooter, and once or twice, when the bus was crowded, I chose to stay on my scooter. In that case, they always had the seatbelt. I was just wondering if the staying on your scooter is a change in policy. What's been others' experiences?

 

[lanejudy]

My understanding is the "transfer to seat" recommendation was for safety reasons. People sit somewhat higher on an ECV than on a wheelchair, which changes the center of gravity making it easier to tip. Even if tied down, sometimes they driver does do so as well as possible and I've seen ECVs tilt, or even just the rider start to tip off because the seat belt doesn't always hold someone in place well. I personally would continue to opt for a transfer, informing the driver I intend to do so even if not asked.

 

[LoveToDisney]

If you stay on your scooter, keep an arm or hand on the folded up seats next to you and hang on when the bus makes a turn so there’s less chance of tipping. One of the bus drivers mentioned that to me. Works very well.

 

[Groot]

If you stay on your scooter, keep an arm or hand on the folded up seats next to you and hang on when the bus makes a turn so there’s less chance of tipping. One of the bus drivers mentioned that to me. Works very well.

Especially if you’re on a 3 wheel scooter

 

[helenm29]

Yeah, I've been on my scooter many, many times on Disney buses and been belted in every time! I guess they want to save seats for other guests to use which is fine with me. I just feel it's a pain for the bus drivers some times because they have to do the extra work of buckling me and the scooter in.

 

[disney-inspired]

I don't transfer because my ECV is already taking away 2-3 seats, there's no reason for me to take another one when the bus is packed.

I want to transfer this upcoming trip because it's kinda lonesome when you can't sit with your friends. I will be the only one with an ECV this time so don't feel as bad.

 

[robinb]

I never transfer because I do not want to take another seat away from someone. I have never felt unsafe sitting in my scooter in dozens of bus rides.

 

[HappyDisneyWife]

I never transfer because I do not want to take another seat away from someone. I have never felt unsafe sitting in my scooter in dozens of bus rides.

I agree! (But it would also hurt to sit on a bus seat… so there’s that )

I have rarely even been asked if I wanted to transfer (I’m in a motorized WC, not on an ECV), but it has been offered and I just let them know I’d prefer to stay in it. I also politely decline the seatbelt (it causes me pain & they’re not allowed to make you wear one when other passengers aren’t required to do the same).

You do whatever makes you feel safe & comfortable!! Hakuna matata!!!