ANALYSIS OF PROBLEMS FACED BY THE DEAF WHILE USING PUBLIC TRANSPORT IN A BIG CITY

Abstract

The article presents aspects connected with the identification of the main problems of the deaf and the hard of hearing when they use public transport and the related infrastructure in Poland. For the purpose of the analysis, a survey was conducted among 71 deaf and hard of hearing persons who live in large conurbations and use public transport daily. The survey included questions concerning to what extent the public transport and infrastructure are adapted to the needs of the hard of hearing. The participants evaluated the system of passenger information and indicated problems they come across most frequently in public transport vehicles and at stops. The problems were related to two primary issues: difficulties communicating directly with the drivers or when paying the fare in the ticket window and problems hearing and understanding voice messages played in vehicles and at train/bus stations.