What You Can Do
As you go through your communities, there are small actions you can take to increase accessibility for all people in your community.
Dos and Don'ts
DO report bad sidewalk conditions to the city
DO keep the sidewalk clean in front of your house
DO offer help to people, but always ask first.
The city should take action and have the sidewalk owner fix it! If you are in Pittsburgh, consider reporting through the 311 Response Center or find similar resources in your own city! You can report things like missing curb cuts or broken sidewalks.
Shoveling the snow in the winter will make it safer and less slippery for everyone. Leaves piling up can also narrow the sidewalk, which can make it hard for wheelchairs or walkers to get past. Rake the leaves, and make your sidewalk clean, visible, and obstacle-free.
If you see a person who may need some help, ask if they need it. Don’t assume that someone needs your help, or help without asking, but do offer to help where you can.
DON'T block the sidewalk
DON’T park in accessible parking spaces
DON'T touch others' mobility aids without permission.
Make sure you don’t put trash cans in the middle of the sidewalk on trash collection days. Putting them to the edge makes it easier for everyone to navigate around them. This also applies for other items that block the path, like tables and chairs.
Accessible parking is usually very limited so make sure to keep those spaces open for those with passes. This includes making sure that the access aisle, usually striped with white lines, is also free to ensure people can get in and out of the cars.
Always ask: ask if they need help, or ask them to move a little if they are in your way. By pushing someone, you can make them lose balance and tip over, get their hand stuck in a wheel, or get seriously injured. Also, mobility aids can be VERY expensive; you may break it by accident, even if you meant to help.
What to Look Out For
Through our research we have developed a taxonomy of accessibility information about both routes and buildings that can be reported through different contribution sources—either through an app, like pathVu, or by calling your city’s hotline (e.g. call 311 if you’re in Pittsburgh). This organization serves as a resource for things to keep in mind while navigating and a reminder to report issues you may see in order to make the world more accessible for everyone.
Conditions
Missing Infrastructure
Look out for missing infrastructure that is important for people with mobility impairments to travel safely.
No Crosswalk Lights
Missing Sidewalk
Missing Curb Cut
Sidewalk Issues
Issues related to the physical terrain or condition of the sidewalk can be hazardous for people with mobility aids.
Sidewalk Cracks
Cobblestone or Rough Terrain
Slanted Sidewalk
Narrow Sidewalk
Steep Slope
Obstacles
Temporary Obstacles
Temporary obstacles should be frequently reported to ensure that the information is accurate and reliable.
Trash Bins on Sidewalk
Slippery Sidewalk
Debris on Sidewalk
Semi-Permanent Obstacles
These obstacles are often changed or removed, and thus need to be reported and updated regularly.
Table or Chairs on Sidewalk
Sign on Sidewalk
Construction
Permanent Obstacles
Although these don’t change frequently, it is important to know about steps and any alternatives available.
Step(s) on Routes
Access
Entrance Access
Information about the entrance of the final location is key to being able to successfully complete the journey.
Automatic Doors
Step(s) at Building
Ramp
Wheelchair Lift
Indoor Access
These features are important to be able to access the inside of a building safely and efficiently.
Automatic Doors
Step(s) in Building
Ramp
Elevator
Wheelchair Lift
Narrow Pathways
Wide Pathways
Amenities
Outdoor Amenities
Look out for missing infrastructure that is important for people with mobility impairments to travel safely.
Storage for Chair or Scooter
Accessible Parking Spots
Rest Spots
Indoor Amenities
The availability of accessibility features inside a building can help others make a decisions about going there.
Restroom
Accessible Restroom
Storage for Chair or Scooter
Accessible Parking Spots
Rest Spots
How You Can Advocate
Advocacy is not limited to big groups or organizations. Even small acts done by individuals or teams can add up and make a difference, so applying your skills and abilities—whatever they may be—to accessibility can effect change in the long run.
Learn more about how we applied our skills to this space →
