Parents of children with birth injuries are often afraid to travel because of the challenges their children may experience. Airports, trains and unfamiliar hotels can be scary for children, but you might be surprised how accommodating the travel industry and your fellow travelers will be toward you and your child.
The Air Carrier Access Act bans discrimination on the basis of disability in air travel. It requires that all flights on U.S. airlines – and flights to or from the United States by foreign airlines – accommodate the needs of passengers with disabilities. That being said, each airline also has their own policies and procedures regarding passengers with disabilities, including ones relating to birth injuries, so calling ahead can help the travel experience go more smoothly.
In order to avoid any issues that could arise, you should try to book your flight as early as possible and inform the airline that a member of your party has physical limitations relating to a birth injury. Confirm the special needs request again at least 48 hours before your flight and be sure to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to make it through security and to your gate before boarding begins. You will be allowed to board before any of the other passengers for most flights.
The Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) also has special procedures for all passengers with disabilities. The TSA recommends that while going through security, parents or guardians of children with disabilities should follow the following steps.
- Inform the security officer if the child has any special needs or medical devices.
- Inform the security officer if you think the child may become upset during the screening process as a result of their disability.
- Offer suggestions on how to best accomplish the screening to minimize any confusion or outburst for the child.
- Tell the security officer what are your child can and cannot do.
Birth Injuries Attorney: You should know that at no time should the security office remove your child from his or her wheelchair. You are responsible for doing that, if it’s necessary. If your child cannot walk or stand, the officer will conduct a pat-down search of your child while he or she remains in the wheelchair. You should never be separated from your child during the screening.
Although the process might take longer than normal, it shouldn’t be overwhelming. Plus, the payoff of a beautiful, relaxing vacation for your entire family is well worth the extra time.
If you have more questions on how to best get your child safely to your destination, you can talk to your airline about its procedures and protocols as well as your doctor for his or her suggestions.
Erbs Palsy Lawyer As a parent or family member of a child with a birth injury, your goal is to provide comfortable experiences for your child. Whether at school, the park, or in the airport, you want your child to feel safe, secure, and content. These activities can come with costs, unexpected expenses, and the financial burden can be overwhelming at times. If you think your child’s birth injury was caused by medical error, call Sokolove Law today to learn more about pursuing a birth injury lawsuit. Monetary compensation in a birth injury lawsuit can be designated specifically towards medical costs for your child.
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