Ride-sourcing demand in Metro Vancouver: Looking through the lens of disability

The availability of ride-sourcing services provided by Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) can improve access to opportunities for persons with disabilities. This segment of the population, which tends to have fewer transportation options, can benefit from the on-demand and flexible nature of ride-sourcing. Despite the potential for ride-sourcing to improve equitable access, little research exists on the use of ride-sourcing by persons with disabilities and its influence on their use of other modes. To address this gap, this study focuses on understanding the characteristics of ride-sourcing trips made by persons with disabilities and the factors influencing their substitution of public transit and taxis. Using survey data collected in the Metro Vancouver area, this study also compares the behaviour of persons with and without disabilities. Results indicate a larger share of ride-sourcing adopters among persons with disabilities and that ride-sourcing is used more frequently by this group compared to persons without disabilities. Empirical models reveal little overlap between the factors that influence these two population groups' replacements of public transit and taxis. Some of the significant factors influencing the use of TNCs in place of transit and taxis include age, income, transit pass ownership, going to the airport, wanting to avoid drinking and driving, faster travel times, and lower costs. The results of this study can help inform the development of policies to facilitate trip-making among persons with disabilities.