Equal Access For All Policy

Timi’s Tours is committed to providing safe, dignified, and accessible charter transportation to all passengers, including individuals with disabilities. As a large private operator offering demand-responsive Over-the-Road Bus (OTRB) service, we follow all ADA accessibility requirements under 49 CFR Part 37, Subpart H.

 This policy applies to all charter and tour operations provided by Timi’s Tours using motorcoaches and over-the-road buses. We do not operate fixed-route service; all trips are demand-responsive, including group charters, tours, and private contracts. 

 We provide accessible vehicles for charter passengers upon request in compliance with ADA regulations:

• Passengers must provide at least 48 hours’ notice to request an accessible bus (e.g., one equipped with a wheelchair lift and securement system).
• If notice is given, Timi’s Tours will provide an accessible vehicle.
• If less than 48 hours’ notice is given, we will still make a good faith, reasonable effort to meet the request without displacing other passengers.
   

• Our accessible buses feature wheelchair lifts, securement devices, and other ADA-compliant features.
• Trained staff will assist passengers with boarding, lift operation, and securement as needed.
• If more wheelchair users request service than we have securement spots, assistance and a standard seat may be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

•  Passengers with disabilities have the same right to disembark at rest/intermediate stops as all other passengers.
• Our team will provide assistance to and from the bus when needed.
• If we own or control the rest stop facility (or contract with a facility), we ensure it meets ADA standards.

If a passenger is unable to use an onboard restroom during a trip of three or more hours, and requests an unscheduled stop, we will make a good faith effort to accommodate the request.

 In accordance with ADA requirements:

• When a passenger requests accessible service, we will complete a Service Request Form.
• A copy of this form will be provided to the passenger via mail, email, or fax within one business day of the request.
• We retain a copy of the completed form for five years for DOT inspection.
• One request covers all legs of a round-trip or multi-leg charter.

 Timi’s Tours has designated a Complaint Resolution Officer (CRO) to handle disability-related concerns:

• The CRO is fully trained on ADA regulations and authorized to resolve complaints. 
• Available by phone or email during all operating hours.
• Contact information is provided at the time of booking or upon request.
   

CRO Contact Info:
Name: Adam Jones
Phone: 217-768-3531
Email: Adam@timistours.com

If a concern cannot be resolved by our team, passengers may file a formal complaint with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) or the U.S. Department of Justice.

 All employees involved in passenger service receive ADA-compliant training, including:

• Safe use of lifts and securement systems
• Boarding and deboarding assistance
• Handling of mobility aids
• Sensitivity and appropriate communication with passengers with disabilities

We also conduct refresher training to maintain skill proficiency and awareness of evolving ADA rules.

 To ensure the reliability of our accessible service:

• Lifts are inspected and tested on a regular basis 
• Operators report failures immediately
• Vehicles with non-working lifts are removed from service until repaired, or may remain in service for up to 5 days only if no backup vehicle is available

 As a large demand-responsive operator, Timi’s Tours files an annual report with the U.S. Department of Transportation each October, including:

• Number of requests for accessible service
• Number of requests fulfilled
• Fleet statistics (number of new/used buses acquired and how many are accessible)
• CRO and company contact information

 At Timi’s Tours, we are firmly committed to equal access and fair treatment for all passengers. In accordance with ADA regulations, we do not:

• Deny transportation to any individual on the basis of a disability 
• Require passengers with disabilities to alter their travel plans or schedules in order to receive service
• Depend on companions, family members, or bystanders to provide assistance, unless specifically requested by the passenger
• Provide reservation services or onboard experiences that are inferior to those offered to other passengers

Our goal is to ensure every passenger travels with dignity, independence, and respect.

 We are dedicated to ensuring equal access to transportation for all passengers. If you have any questions about ADA accommodations or require assistance planning an accessible charter, please contact our team. 

 49 CFR Part 37 – Transportation Services for Individuals with Disabilities (ADA) 

 Subpart H: Over-the-Road Buses (OTRBs) – ADA Requirements  

 Department of Transportation ADA Website (General Info) 

 File an ADA Complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice