Free Public Transport for People with Disabilities: New Rights and Legal Norms in Ukraine
Ukraine’s legislation provides special benefits for certain categories of the population regarding the use of public transport.
According to current regulations, persons with disabilities, including those with I or II group visual impairments or motor system disabilities, as well as their companions, have the right to free travel on all types of urban public transportation, including the metro.
To exercise this right, they must possess an appropriate certificate or certificate confirming their disability status.
Additionally, from October 1 to May 15, these categories are eligible for a 50% discount on tickets for domestic flights, railways, water, and road transport.
These privileges are independent of the ownership structure of the transport company.Legislation guarantees that beneficiaries of benefits can use their rights simply by showing their ID to the driver or conductor.
Transport providers are obliged to provide services without any additional conditions or refusals.
Refusal to provide free benefits is illegal and results in administrative penalties, including fines for drivers and companies.
If a passenger is denied the benefit, they have the right to contact the police, file a complaint with the territorial Ukrtranssecurity department, or call a hot line.
Such violations can also be challenged in court.Despite the legal rights, cases of refusal to allow free travel still occur frequently, which highlights the need for increased oversight and responsibility of carriers to comply with the law.
Citizens must be aware of their rights and prepared to defend them to ensure equal access to transportation for all groups of society.