Part 12Disabled persons: transport
Chapter 1Taxis, etc.
I1167Lists of wheelchair-accessible vehicles
1
For the purposes of section 165, a licensing authority may maintain a list of vehicles falling within subsection (2).
2
A vehicle falls within this subsection if—
a
it is either a taxi or a private hire vehicle, and
b
it conforms to such accessibility requirements as the licensing authority thinks fit.
3
A licensing authority may, if it thinks fit, decide that a vehicle may be included on a list maintained under this section only if it is being used, or is to be used, by the holder of a special licence under that licence.
4
In subsection (3) “special licence” has the meaning given by section 12 of the Transport Act 1985 (use of taxis or hire cars in providing local services).
5
“Accessibility requirements” are requirements for securing that it is possible for disabled persons in wheelchairs—
a
to get into and out of vehicles in safety, and
b
to travel in vehicles in safety and reasonable comfort,
either staying in their wheelchairs or not (depending on which they prefer).
6
The Secretary of State may issue guidance to licensing authorities as to—
a
the accessibility requirements which they should apply for the purposes of this section;
b
any other aspect of their functions under or by virtue of this section.
7
A licensing authority which maintains a list under subsection (1) must have regard to any guidance issued under subsection (6).