Providing respectful service for riders with mobility devices

February 2026

A UZURV driver assists an older rider who uses a cane into the vehicle.

Providing respectful service for riders with mobility devices

UZURV provides a much-needed service for people who don’t have reliable access to safe transportation. Many UZURV riders have difficulty getting around because of their age or a physical disability — and many of these riders use a mobility device.

Unless you already know someone who uses a mobility device, you might not know what they are or why people use them. We hope this information about mobility devices helps you better understand your riders’ needs — and how to assist them with kindness and respect.

"Our driver was very polite to me and my husband while going to doctor appointments. He was considerate and compassionate and gave great door-to-door service to assist my husband with his walker. He certainly is a one-in-a-million human being!"

— UZURV rider in Columbus, OH

What is a mobility device and who uses them?

A mobility device (or mobility aid) is a piece of equipment that someone uses to help them get around, such as…

Canes
Walkers
Crutches
Wheelchairs

An elderly man leans on a walker for support and smiles.

Anyone who has difficulty moving around on their own may use a mobility device. People with physical disabilities, elderly people, people recovering from injury or illness, and many others use mobility devices to improve their everyday lives.

Why do people use mobility devices?

Mobility devices make it safer and easier for people with mobility limitations to navigate their surroundings. They also help people gain more independence in their everyday lives. A person with a disability might struggle to walk to their mailbox, but with a cane, they can collect their mail without putting their health at risk or needing someone else to do it for them.

It’s important, though, to remember that every disability and every person is different — people use mobility devices for different reasons and in different situations.

A young woman in a wheelchair smiles at the camera while someone holds open the door behind her.

“My driver made the extra effort to ensure I was sheltered with an umbrella, all the way up my walkway to the front door. This meant a lot to me as I use a walker.”

— UZURV rider in Hanover, VA

Tips for assisting riders who use mobility devices

As always, ask the rider how you can assist them to the vehicle — they know their needs best! You can also offer to help with your rider’s belongings, since they’ll be using one or both hands to use their mobility device.
Do not handle a mobility device without being asked. If you are asked, be respectful and gentle. Remember, this device makes the rider’s everyday life easier, so it would be very frustrating and costly if it were damaged or lost.
Walkers or collapsible wheelchairs may need to be folded and placed in the trunk of your vehicle. Ask the rider how to collapse their mobility device if you have any trouble.
Scan pathways for possible tripping hazards when walking to and from the vehicle with your rider. Mobility devices can easily catch on sidewalk cracks, twigs, or rocks.
For your safety and theirs, never lift or carry a rider, even if they ask. Minor physical assistance is okay, like holding your rider’s hand while they get out of the vehicle.
Finally, UZURV Operations is just a call away! Contact them through the app if your rider is unable to get into the vehicle or their mobility device does not fit.