What is equity in transportation?
Henry Morales
Published Feb 27, 2026
Equity refers to the distribution of impacts (benefits and costs) and whether that distribution is considered fair and appropriate. Transportation equity analysis is important and unavoidable; transport planning decisions often have significant equity impacts, and equity concerns often influence planning debates.
How do you make transportation equitable?
Making Public Transit ‘Inclusive’
- Prioritize transit service for the people who need it most.
- Transit access practices such as fare policies should target high-need communities.
- Engage community members and civic organizations.
- Plan for housing affordability.
Why is transportation equity important?
The equity lens enables transportation planners and designers to enhance city accessibility for everyone, including: seniors, people with disabilities and low income, people of color, and individuals living in underserved areas.
What is equitable mobility?
For us, mobility equity means much more than just having equal access to transportation or mobility options. Mobility equity also means maximizing clean air benefits and economic opportunities, especially in low-income communities of color.
Can a handicap car be included in medical expenses?
IRS Publication 502 states that under medical expenses, you can include the difference between the cost of owning a regular car (not handicap-accessible) and owning a vehicle specifically designed to accommodate a wheelchair. This is referred to as “special design.”
Can a disabled person have a car tax exemption?
The vehicle must be registered in the disabled person’s name or their nominated driver’s name. It must only be used for the disabled person’s personal needs. It cannot be used by the nominated driver for their own personal use. You can only have one vehicle tax exemption at any one time.
How much does a car need to be adapted for a disabled driver?
Specifically adapted vehicles for drivers with severe disabilities: €16,000 (Specifically adapted vehicles are vehicles that need significant adaptations)
What makes a vehicle accessible to the handicapped?
Vehicle accessibility also includes a number of accessories, including the possibility of lowering the floor and lifting the roof, an electric opening to the door, a transfer plate that allows the transition from the wheelchair to the higher driver’s chair, a folding electric step to the entrance to a relatively high car and of course elevators.
