Accessible transportation options for people with DMD
Last updated August 13, 2025, by Jordan Wold
Fact-checked by PatrÃcia Silva, PhD
Getting around with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) often requires extra planning, but with the right tools and knowledge, transportation doesn’t have to limit your mobility or independence.
Whether you’re navigating public transportation, air travel, or non-emergency medical transportation, there are ways to make the journey more comfortable and accessible.
From accessible modifications to vehicles to knowing your rights and options, understanding transportation options for people with disabilities can help you stay mobile and in control, no matter where you’re headed.
What to think about before you travel
Before you travel, a few quick questions to ask yourself include:
- How long is the trip you are taking?
- Is this a trip you take frequently or only once?
- How far away are you traveling, and what individual mobility challenges might you face on the way?
- Is wheelchair-accessible transportation available at your final destination?
Asking yourself questions like these can help you determine which accessibility features to prioritize during your trip.
Making your vehicle work for you
If you already have a vehicle, but it’s not accessible, there are several accessibility options to consider, including:
- converting your vehicle with ramps, lifts, other wheelchair accessible transportation modifications
- renting an adaptive vehicle for DMD, such as an accessible van rental service
- looking into grants and financial assistance programs that may help offset the cost of modifying or buying an adaptive vehicle.
You’ll also want to consider your vehicle’s specific modification needs, which may depend on the extent to which your DMD symptoms have progressed.
For example, if you’re able to drive with a few modifications, you may have different needs than someone who requires a caregiver to drive.
Public transport
You may already be familiar with navigating life with DMD. Still, if you plan to travel by public transportation or ride-share services, it’s essential to know which accessible options are available to you.
Some accessible public transportation options might include:
- city buses and accessible transit fleets
- paratransit services
- ride-sharing with accessibility features.
Remember that the options available will vary based on what disability transportation programs are offered in your city.
For instance, major cities may be more likely to have paratransit services for disabled riders, while smaller towns might have tighter schedules and less direct routes to your final destination.
Public transit accessibility is improving, but it’s still imperfect. Be sure to look at route schedules ahead of time, and keep a close eye on your personal belongings while riding.
Non-emergency medical transport
When traveling to medical appointments and treatments, non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) is an option.
If you are on Medicaid, the cost of NEMT for DMD may be covered as a benefit. Other forms of insurance may also cover NEMT rides, but a co-payment may be required.
During your NEMT ride, you should expect accessible and respectful service from professionals who are prepared to provide mobility transportation assistance. NEMT vehicles are generally designed to be accessible, so if you need to ride in a wheelchair lift van, that shouldn’t be a problem.
Air and long-distance travel
For long trips, it’s essential to prepare for your entire journey in advance. Accessible air travel for DMD has come a long way. However, long trips can still take a physical and emotional toll on the body and mind.
Look into travel tips for wheelchair users at any airports you might come across on your journey. Even though airline staff are required to assist you, it’s worth investigating any possible accommodations you might need on your way to or at your final destination.
If air travel seems like too much of a hassle for your trip and you know how to get around with DMD at a pace that works better for you, consider taking the train.
Your trip might be longer if you choose to ride the rails, but you may have more control over your comfort and be less prone to rushing to catch the next leg of your journey.
Staying comfortable and safe on the move
After you’ve ensured your transportation will be safe and accessible, you might want to shift your focus to preparing yourself mentally.
- Whether your trip is local or long distance, remember that you might feel fatigued from the exertion involved in traveling.
- You will also want to ensure that you remain in a comfortable position when getting situated.
Most importantly, don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. Be prepared to speak up if a bus driver or TSA agent is handling your transportation equipment recklessly or without proper care.
Helpful places to turn for travel support
There are plenty of helpful places you can turn to for travel support, including:
- nonprofit organizations
- national and local organizations that offer transportation help
- online communities for shared travel experiences and travel tips from people who share your DMD diagnosis.
Receiving accessible transportation for DMD is not optional; it’s your right. By utilizing the resources available to you, you can plan ahead, stay comfortable, and travel in a manner that suits you best.
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