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FIRST CLASS & COACH CLASS FOR PASSENGERS WITH DISABLILITIES
(ADA) For the hearing impaired, there are the visual aids available on the video monitors - these monitors concurrently with the public address system display the safety and emergency procedures. There is also very clear LCD signage on the exterior of the car, and clear and concise signage of all the internal features including emergency exits. It is worth noting that the Talgo cars operated in the Pacific Northwest offer twice as many emergency window exits per guest than most other rail equipment. This is helpful because it would limit the distance a disabled guest would need to travel in case of an emergency. In addition to the video system, there are also clear signs that work in low or no light situations, both at a standard level and at low levels. The cars are designed to tilt, and the air bladder suspension offers a very smooth ride - this smoother ride makes it much easier for those with limited mobility that are not confined to a wheelchair to navigate through the train cars. In addition, since the trainset is articulated, it is relatively unobstructed with smooth enclosed passageways. For guests with limited mobility, this eliminates the uncomfortable feeling of having to step between cars, be exposed to the elements or be confined to one car. But the most impressive features for the mobility impaired guests are for the disabled passengers. The wide aisles and vestibule areas allow for travelers in wheelchairs to go between cars. Whether their goal is to go to another car to visit friends, go to the Bistro Car or Dining car, they can do it. The ADA First and ADA Coach Class Cars are especially designed for disabled passengers and have wide aisles and as they are located adjacent to the Dining and Bistro Cars. Guests with disabilities are allowed freedom of movement never seen before in any trainset. The Amtrak Cascades® service is still believed to be the only service in North America that offers this kind of access for its wheelchair guests (all other existing systems require the passenger to disembark at a station to get to the next car.) In addition each of these cars features a wheelchair lift on both sides. These hydraulic lifts are easy to operate and offer quick and convenient mobility between the train and the depot, allowing the guest to reach his/her destination with as little stress and anxiety as possible. The cars also feature special bathrooms. These large bathrooms feature a location for wheelchairs, convenient transfer bars, and all appliances arranged at convenient heights for disabled guests. Other features of the Talgo train include providing "docking" stations in the cars. These docking stations allow the guests to ride in their wheelchairs or easily transfer to a seat and lock their chair in place. Emergency phones are located right by the accessible seats so that passengers may contact the train crew easily in case of necessity. A similar design is incorporated into the Dining Car, but the Dining Car includes the additional feature of a sliding table. The sliding table allows the disabled guest to access the seat, or remain in their wheelchair, and then move the table to them. This is more convenient and easier to utilize than a standard table. The Bistro Car also has an extra feature specifically designed for the wheelchair guest. There is a location in the Bistro where a seat has intentionally been removed; this location allows the wheelchair guest to "belly up" to the bar without blocking through-traffic. This makes it easier for all passengers and helps eliminated a situation that would make our wheelchair guests feel uncomfortable over concerns about inconveniencing other passengers. Finally, some cars are equipped with pay phones which are at wheelchair
height and have a fold out seat for non-disabled people. Select one of the following other types of passenger
cars for more detail:
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