‘FARE’ TAXI TECHNOLOGY FOR VISUALLY IMPAIRED PASSENGERS

Groundbreaking software enhancements were unveiled, designed to enable blind and visually impaired taxi riders to independently access the credit card payment system and other technology features in New York’s yellow medallion taxicabs as well as taxi fleets around the nation. The announcement was made yesterday by Council member James Vacca, Chair of the Council Transportation Committee, and former New York Governor James Patterson.

The adaptive software, developed by Creative Mobile Technology (CMT) and Lighthouse International, allows passengers to hear the meter change at regular intervals during the trip and facilitates all aspects of the credit card or cash payment.  The features include selection of payment options, verification of fare and selection of tip percentages.  CMT’s audible touch screen system has large, easy to navigate sections that are prompted by step-by-step spoken instructions.

“I know that New York City is one of the most difficult places for blind and visually impaired individuals to navigate, because my own father was blind.  This issue is personal for me,” said Vacca.  Prior to implementation of this new software, blind and visually impaired passengers who chose to use credit cards were forced to rely on cab drivers to swipe their card and enter the correct amount, including the tip.  Not only is this a violation of current TLC rules, but it also exposes the visually impaired passengers to the potential for fraudulent transactions, including overpayment.

In addition to the NYC rollout, CMT also plans to introduce software in 4500 credit card and payment systems in taxis around the country including Chicago, Boston, San Francisco, Philadelphia, Anaheim, Detroit, Kansas City, Columbus and Charlotte.

“Having a credit card system that talks will make riding in a taxi more accessible, enabling me to pay by credit card independently.  I applaud the efforts of Council Member Vacca and Creative Mobile Technologies for making this possible,” said Ellen Rubin, independent access consultant.

Said Commissioner David Yassky, Chairman of the Taxi and Limousine Commission, “This is another good example of leveraging technology to help overcome barriers to accessibility, and we look forward to working with the tech community to make taxis more accessible to everyone.”