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In 2015 I decided to go on a trip see my friend in Las Vegas and then go down to Phoenix to see my friend there before coming home. I was planning on driving. I haven’t traveled much so it would’ve been a good way to see some of the US that I haven’t seen. However, due to a possible issue with my car I ended up flying to Vegas and than renting a car to drive to Phoenix. I had never flown before and since I was going alone I had to find out what services airports, airlines and rental car companies offer for people with disabilities.
First I called Enterprise to see if they have rental cars with hand controls, which they do. If you’re picking the car up at the airport they need eight hours notice. If you’re picking the car up at the rental place they need 48 hours notice to get the hand controls put on.
Next I called the airports and they will provide an escort that will take you from check-in to the gate. My escort at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport was wonderful! She explained everything to me when we got to security they told me exactly what they were doing. When I got to my gate they boarded me first. Once I got to Vegas I had another escort to take me from the gate to baggage claim where my friend was waiting. Some airlines will allow the person that is picking you up to have a gate pass so they can meet you right at the gate. My friend and family didn’t try it so I’m not sure how likely they are to grant it. Although when I flew home from Phoenix the person who accompanied me to the airport was able to get an escort pass to go to the gate and wait with me until I boarded the plane, which was nice.
All in all it was a great experience even though I discovered I don’t care to fly. But it was the first time I was able to drive a car that wasn’t mine.