One of the worst things related to finding yourself in a wheelchair is that you can not go everywhere you intend to go. For example, if you want to go into a building which just has an entrance up several steps, you pretty much have to reconsider. Although the Americans with Disabilities Acts of the 1990s forced the matter of all new structures having wheelchair accessible construction of ramps and elevators, older structures are exempted unless remodeling has been carried out. This certainly limits the independence savored by these disabled Americans which makes them feel disappointed and weak.

Whenever a building is newly-constructed or renovated, the laws are very precise regarding the amount of access they need to offer wheelchair patients. The slope of ramps must be between 1:16 and 1:20. The ability of someone in a wheelchair to handle an incline depends on both slope and length. Even the best inclines are difficult for individuals with poor upper body strength and stamina. It has been confirmed that most individuals in wheelchairs can manage a slope of 1:16, but many are stymied by one of 1:12. When a building has been renovated, it needs to bring its accessibility up to code standards during the time of the construction.

Besides the degree of slope a ramp features, there are also guidelines concerning handrails and landings. Landings have to be at least as wide as the ramps leading up to them which means at least 36” x 60” long. If a ramp alters direction, the landing between the sections must be at least 60” x 60” to allow a turn radius. If there is a door at the top of the ramp, then the section leading to the door should comply with government specifications.

All wheelchair accessible ramps must have handrails which are no higher than 28” except if it’s a building created specifically for the usage of kids. If the ramp features a rise of greater than 6”, then there must be appropriate handrails on both sides.

Even if you are disabled, you have rights to independence as well as freedom just like everyone else. If you are having issues with places that you feel should be up to code but aren’t, you can call the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice or visit with them regarding your rights. The phone numbers are 800-514-0301 for voice and 800-514-0383 for TTY.