How many people using wheelchairs does the van hold?

Two. The AccessMobile is a Vision Van by Viewpoint Mobility. It has a rear-loading ramp. The van is equipped with a Q'Straint restraint system, and both riders need to face forward. Instructions for the equipment will be sent with your welcome packet and a separate copy is kept in the equipment storage compartment in the minivan. Please note that capacity of the van for 2 wheelchairs, other passengers and a driver will depend on the size of the wheelchair(s).

How can I set up my account?

It's easy to join. Just sign up to any plan, such as SharePlus, ShareLocal, Share-A-Little, a business or a student plan, and let us know that you also want to sign up for the Access program by checking the box on the application form.

If I am a member who doesn't drive, how can I reserve the AccessMobile?

You can set up your own account and be the only member of the account authorized to make reservations. To make a reservation, use your member ID and your password. After reserving the vehicle, any drivers that are signed up to your account can access the vehicle and drive. But you make the reservation. Any and all fees from these trips will be billed to your account.

Can I park in designated handicap parking spaces?

You will need to bring your own DP parking placard with you to legally park in accessible parking spaces. As the AccessMobile is available to all City CarShare members during the evenings and weekdays, a disabled parking placard will not be stored in the van. Always remember to take your placard with you when you're done using the vehicle. If you find a placard, call member services and give us the number on the placard so we can make sure it is returned.

Will you be expanding this program?

The Access program is a pilot program. The AccessMobile in our fleet is supported by a grant from the National Organizations on Disabilities and is co-sponsored by the City of Berkeley. Once the program gains members, we will be able to add more AccessMobiles to meet demand.

In developing the program, City CarShare, in partnership with the City of Berkeley's Commission on Disability, explored the possibility of making hand controls available. We found that there is not yet a design that allows hand controls to be safely installed and removed by anyone other than a designated expert. Nor is there existing technology that would allow an electronic solution for a vehicle that is shared among car share members.

However, we allow members to install accessible equipment (e.g. portable hand controls) in appropriate vehicles. Consistent with our self-service model, members are responsible for their own installation and removal of equipment. If a member does not have his/her own hand controls but desires to take a trip using hand controls, upon request (made to a City CarShare representative at 415-995-8588) at least 7 days prior to the date that the vehicle is needed, City CarShare will set up its designated accessible car with hand controls for the member.

We are constantly making improvements to our service and rely on member feedback to do so. As a member of the Access program, your feedback on the service will be invaluable in helping us improve and expand the program.