Discrimination in Ride-Sharing Services Persists for Individuals with Visual Impairments
Individuals who are blind or have low vision report facing discrimination while using ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft at significantly higher rates compared to other modes of transportation, according to a recent study. Despite the convenience these services offer, accessibility is often marred by discriminatory practices.
Study Findings
Research published in Transportation Research Interdisciplinary Perspectives revealed that 60.2% of ride-sharing users who identify as blind or having low vision reported experiencing some form of discrimination. This contrasts sharply with discrimination rates reported by those using taxis (30%), buses (17.9%), or other transportation methods. Data derived from Brady SA, et al. Transp Res Interdiscip Perspect. 2026
The study, conducted from June 2023 through January 2024, surveyed 300 legally blind adults. Participants were recruited through organizations such as the National Federation of the Blind and the National Association of Guide Dog Users.
Guide Dog Users Face Heightened Discrimination
The study highlighted a particularly concerning trend: individuals using guide dogs experienced significantly higher rates of discrimination. 57.8% of guide dog users reported mistreatment of their service animal. They were also more likely to report trip denials, unfair cleaning fees, and discrimination from drivers (P < .0001). The likelihood of experiencing these issues was statistically significant (P < .0001 for discrimination, P = .0002 for cleaning fees, P < .0001 for trip drop-offs).
Satisfaction Levels Vary
While ride-sharing is a commonly used transportation method for this population, satisfaction levels differ between services. Respondents reported being “somewhat” or “exceptionally” satisfied with Lyft (76.7%) more often than with Uber (65.7%).
Implications and Advocacy
Sylvia A. Brady, PhD, of Metropolitan State University of Denver, and lead author of the study, emphasizes that the research substantiates long-standing anecdotal evidence and legal claims within the blind and low vision community. “The research supported what was previously documented anecdotally within the [blind and low vision] community and in lawsuits against the transportation network companies,” Brady stated. The findings are currently being used to support legislation in Colorado aimed at increasing penalties for transportation network companies that discriminate against riders. eFoodAlert
Dr. Brady and her team are continuing their research, focusing on analyzing interviews to understand how discrimination manifests across different transportation modes and to develop recommendations for companies to mitigate these issues.
Clinical Implications
Alexander Martin, OD, FAAO, highlights the clinical relevance of these findings. Transportation barriers directly impact appointment adherence, follow-up compliance, and access to specialty care for individuals with visual impairments. Optometrists should routinely inquire about transportation reliability when counseling patients, particularly those who use guide dogs, recognizing the potential for stress, unpredictability, and financial burden associated with ride-hailing services.
Contact: Sylvia A. Brady, PhD, can be reached at sbrady16@msudenver.edu.