Use of Segways and Other Mobility Devices

Individuals with mobility disabilities may use wheelchairs and manually - powered mobility aids, such as walkers, crutches, canes, braces, or other similar devices in public areas of the District of Columbia Courts. The District of Columbia Courts make reasonable modifications of policies, practices, or procedures to allow persons with mobility disabilities to use a Segway - type of power - driven mobility device in the public areas of a courthouse. The Segway - type device shall be operated safely at all times and at a speed that is both safe and appropriate. The DCCourts do not ask an individual using a wheelchair or Segway - type questions about the nature and extent of his or her disability.However, the DCCourts may ask a person using a Segway - type device to provide credible assurance that it is required because of his or her disability.

The DCCourts accept the presentation of a valid state - issued, disability parking placard or card, or other state - issued proof of disability as a credible assurance that the use of the Segway - type device is for the individual’ s mobility disability.In lieu of these forms of assurance, the DCCourts accept a verbal representation, not contradicted by observable fact, as credible assurance that the mobility device is being used for a mobility disability.A“ valid” disability placard or card is one that is presented by the individual to whom it was issued and is otherwise in compliance with the state of issuance’ s requirements for disability placards or cards.