The Need for Change in Rideshare Accessibility
The rideshare industry has the potential to greatly improve mobility for people with disabilities, addressing many limitations of conventional transportation methods. However, significant hurdles remain. Research shows that individuals with disabilities are less likely to partake in rideshare services. This discrepancy highlights the need for better access and planning tailored to the unique needs of disabled users. Addressing these barriers is crucial for making rideshare an equitable mobility option. A study funded by the University of Illinois at Chicago Department of Disability and Human Development was conducted in 2022 and highlighted significant hurdles for those with disabilities:
Some key findings included:
People with disabilities face significant barriers to accessing rideshare services.
Current solutions are not greatly accessible, such as license plate identification and driver location on your screen.
Individuals with disabilities significantly desire rideshare services, but they believe the market lacks assistive technologies to support them.
Individuals with a disability of any type are associated with a lower likelihood of implementing rideshare technologies.
Socio-economic factors and the type of assistive devices impact rideshare adoption and usage.
Policymakers and disability advocates in the rideshare industry must work together to improve accessibility and address these glaring hurdles that hinder rideshare usage among people with disabilities.
How HapticNav Can Help
Our patented technology is poised to be a game-changer in this space. By offering a navigation solution that is specifically designed to revolutionize the way users receive information, HapticNav can help bridge the gap in rideshare accessibility.
Our technology enhances user experience by providing haptic feedback that guides individuals to their rideshare vehicles with ease through vibrations. This reduces the uncertainty and stress often associated with locating a vehicle, especially in crowded or unfamiliar environments.
Up to 92% of users rate safety as a very important aspect of finding their rideshare vehicle, according to our most recent survey—a concern that HapticNav directly addresses.
Data also revealed that 59% of users report taking over 1 minute to find their ride, with 34% spending 3 minutes or more.
These delays not only cause frustration but can also heighten safety risks, particularly in busy or poorly lit areas. HapticNav offers a solution by providing a more intuitive and efficient way to locate rideshare vehicles.
90% of users indicated that a feature guiding them to their vehicle would be highly valuable,
and 75% expressed a strong preference for using vibrational feedback to find their ride at night.
This is especially beneficial for those with vision impairments, who may struggle with identifying cars. By integrating HapticNav into their platforms, rideshare companies can take significant strides toward creating a safer, more inclusive, and equitable transportation system—one that not only saves time but also enhances safety and accessibility for all.
What Users are Saying about HapticNav
It's not all about the numbers. Our technology has been tried and tested by thousands of users, who have all come to the same conclusion:
"It is brilliant, sheer genius.”
Since 2010, navigational technology has had little change in our dynamic world and consumers are demanding more solutions to support accessibility and inclusivity. Visual and audio navigation just isn't enough, especially in crowded and congested areas which is where 51% of our survey participants voice the most frustration.
“I get so lost trying to find my destinations in NYC,” says one respondent.
Now, you can minimize the chances of getting lost. With HapticNav, our precise navigational technology ensures you never have to ask if you're heading in the right direction.
“This is great. Anytime I'm in a busy area and need a ride, I love the fact that it gives me a vibrating path to the vehicle.”
With user feedback affirming its effectiveness, HapticNav proves its ability to simplify navigation and boost confidence in any setting, for anyone.
Reference:
University of Illinois at Chicago Department of Disability and Human Development (2022).
Study on Rideshare Accessibility for People with Disabilities
