Megabus settles accessibility violation

Megabus has agreed to pay $67,500 and improve its practices for dealing with passengers with disabilities in a settlement with the United States Department of Justice.

Megabus entered the Corridor market a year ago, serving Iowa City on a route connecting Chicago and Des Moines. It has served 86,000 passengers on the route in the last year, the company said Monday.

The company's practices came under scrutiny after a wheelchair user on a route between New York and Baltimore complained that he was not permitted to use the ramp on a bus and was instead forced to transfer out of his wheelchair rather than be secured in the wheelchair as required by federal regulations.

Megabus said it will provide refresher training to its employees and contractors regarding requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

In addition, Megabus said it plans website enhancements to provide a comprehensive online reservation system for individuals with disabilities. It plans to work with its vehicle manufacturer on improvements to enhance accessibility for those with disabilities.

The justice department said Megabus agreed to pay a $55,000 civil penalty to the government and $12,500 to the complainant.

Title III of the ADA prohibits specified private transportation providers from excluding people with disabilities, including those with mobility impairments from full and equal enjoyment of the services provided.