Beach Goer Granted Accommodation and Equal Access

William Morgan is an avid beach goer living in Flagler County. Due to his physical and orthopedic-related disability, he uses a mobility device to drive on the beach. The mobility device, similar to a golf cart, is considered an ‘other-power-driven mobility device’ or OPDMD. When William asked a patrol officer if he could use his mobility aid on the beach, the officer told him they would arrest him and confiscate his OPDMD. Our staff educated Flagler County about reasonable accommodations. We explained that people with disabilities who use mobility devices deserve access to public programs and spaces, like beaches. Refusing to offer William an accommodation for his OPDMD would be discriminating against him because of his disability. Because of our advocacy and involvement, William can now access the beach using his OPDMD without resistance from county personnel.

People with disabilities deserve access to their communities and nature. We’re proud to help William visit the beach with more peace of mind. If you are experiencing discrimination related to your assistive technology, please contact us.