Accessible buses: how to use them
In order to make its bus network accessible to all, exo works in close collaboration with the involved municipalities and partners.
What is an accessible bus line exactly?
For a line to be considered accessible, its buses and stops must meet certain requirements. Here they are:
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Accessible buses must have:
- a wheelchair ramp;
- a low floor with kneeling system;
- one or two reserved spaces for users with mobility aids.
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In order that all users may have access to these buses, stops must likewise be adapted so that they can be boarded safely.
Access to these stops must be continuous and unimpeded.
The stop must include a zone where the bus can deploy the wheelchair ramp securely.
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To make sure the service is available, look for the international accessibility icon on the stop signs and near the front door of the bus.
Accessible buses
Accessible buses must have:
- a wheelchair ramp;
- a low floor with kneeling system;
- one or two reserved spaces for users with mobility aids.
Accessible stops
In order that all users may have access to these buses, stops must likewise be adapted so that they can be boarded safely.
Access to these stops must be continuous and unimpeded.
The stop must include a zone where the bus can deploy the wheelchair ramp securely.
See the list of accessible stops
Universal accessibility icon
To make sure the service is available, look for the international accessibility icon on the stop signs and near the front door of the bus.
How to use our accessible buses
Before leaving
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Plan your ride
Start by establishing an itinerary with our trip planning tool to see what options are available.
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Validate that the chosen stops are accessible
Check the list of accessible stops to see which boarding or disembarking stops are wheelchair-accessible.
During your ride
Boarding and exiting the bus is by the front door.
Boarding
At the bus stop
1Wait for the bus, making sure you can be seen.
2Signal the driver that you wish to get on the bus.
To board the bus
3Wait until the access ramp is deployed.
4Activate your wheelchair’s anti-tip mechanism.
Inside the bus
5Pay your fare, using your OPUS card. See the fares and rates accepted for regular transit.. * Paratransit fares are not accepted in regular transit.
6Take place in the reserved space. Lean your mobility aid against the safety cushion, facing the back of the bus.
7Lock the brakes. Exo recommends fastening the safety strap.
Photo : Simon Laroche
Photo : Simon Laroche
Disembarking
Asking to get off
1Indicate your wish to exit the bus by pushing the stop button showing the international accessibility icon.
To get off the bus
2Wait until the bus has stopped completely and for the other clients to leave the bus before moving up to the ramp.
3Wait until the ramp is deployed before getting off. Face the exit, do not try to go down the ramp backwards.
Photo : Simon Laroche
Additional information
Allowed mobility aids
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These are the mobility aids that are accepted on board the accessible buses:
- Manual or motorized wheelchairs
- Three-wheeled scooters
- Four-wheeled scooters
Maximum dimensions authorized (including accessories):
- Maximal width: 64.7 cm (25,5 inches)
- Maximal length: 125.7 cm (49,5 inches)
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The seats identified as such are reserved for you primarily. If needed, do not hesitate to ask for them if someone is sitting there.
Photo : Simon Laroche
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People with functional limitations who need the help of an attendant when using exo’s regular transit network can apply for an attendant card, subject to certain eligibility criteria.
Attendant card owners use their OPUS card to pay their fare, and their attendant can travel free of charge.
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You can travel with your guide or service dog. The animal must remain at your feet at all times. Make sure to leave the aisle free.
Customer service
Need help?
Contact us! We are there to help you and answer your queries, by phone or email.
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