Policy on the Use of Mobility Devices

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Policy on the Use of Mobility Devices Page 2 of 5 "Other Power - Driven Mobility Device" ( OPDMD) means any mobility device powered by batteries, fuel, or other engines, whether or not designed primarily by use for individuals with mobility disabilities for the purpose of locomotion including golf cars, electronic personal assistance mobility devices (EPAMDS) such as the Segway®PT, or any mobility device designed to operate in areas without defined pedestrian routes, but that is not a wheelchair within the meaning of this section. "Wheelchair" means a manually- operated or power- driven device designed primarily for use by an individual with a mobility disability for the main purpose of indoor or of both indoor and outdoor locomotion. This definition does not apply to Federal wilderness areas; wheelchairs in such areas are defined in section 508(c) (2) of the ADA, 42 U.S.C. 12207(c) (2). Use of Mobility Devices The County permits individuals with mobility disabilities to use wheelchairs and other manually powered mobility devices in any facilities or areas that are open to pedestrian use. se of Other Power - Driven Mobility Devices The County shall make reasonable modifications in its policies, practices and procedures to permit the use of OPDMDs by individuals with mobility disabilities in County facilities unless the County can demonstrate that the class of OPDMD can not be operated safely within the particular facility or use of the class of OPDMD would fundamentally alter the nature of the County program, service, or activity. Individuals with mobility disabilities who use OPDMDs are permitted to operate these devices in County facilities open to pedestrian use. OPDMDs are not permitted where the use of the OPDMD poses a direct threat to the individuals operating the OPDMDs, other individuals, or the involved facilities. A direct threat is a significant risk to the health or safety of others. For example, OPDMDs that run on gasoline may not be used in enclosed facilities as their fumes may sicken people or kill them. The use of OPDMDs may be prohibited in the public right of way at certain events which attract large numbers of pedestrian traffic, such as Black and White Night in Hilo, Ho`olaule`a or the Merrie Monarch festival, when the likelihood of collisions and resulting injuries between individuals using OPDMDs and pedestrians is heightened.