Improving transportation access for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities using ridehailing services
Official title: Development and Evaluation of Technology and Safety Supports for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities to Independently Use Driverless and Driver Supported Ridehailing Services
Funded at Ablelink Smart Living Technologies LLC · NIH-10921333 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to make ride services like Uber and Lyft easier and safer for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, so they can travel more independently and enjoy their communities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ablelink Smart Living Technologies LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Colorado Springs, United States) |
| Project start | September 5, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $295,919 |
| NIH project number | 1R44HD113503-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10921333 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who require assistance with transportation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without intellectual or developmental disabilities may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing and evaluating technology and safety supports that enable individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to independently use driverless and driver-supported ridehailing services. The project aims to address the significant transportation disparities faced by this population, particularly in accessing services like Uber and Lyft. By creating tailored solutions, the research seeks to enhance the usability and safety of these transportation options for individuals with IDD, ultimately promoting greater independence and community participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve transportation access and independence for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
How similar studies have gone: While there is limited research specifically on transportation for individuals with IDD, similar initiatives in enhancing mobility access for disabled populations have shown promise.
Where this research is happening
-
Ablelink Smart Living Technologies LLC
Colorado Springs, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Davies, Daniel K — Ablelink Smart Living Technologies LLC
- Study coordinator: Davies, Daniel K
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.