Tanterian Taylor told the Norfolk City Council that she sustained an injury after a Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) bus failed to secure her powered wheelchair and that the ride damaged an $82,455.66 chair, leaving her with additional therapy needs.

Why it matters: Taylor said the incident raises concerns about transit accessibility and vehicle maintenance for riders who use wheelchairs.

Tanterian Taylor, who identified herself as an environmental activist and alternate delegate of District 3, described two incidents in August in which she said wheelchair securement devices on HRT buses did not work and jolted her chair. “They caused me an injury on August 9 … This is a $82,455.66 chair,” Taylor said. She said HRT’s insurance contact told her the agency had reviewed a video and “didn't see anything,” and that she has referred the matter to her lawyer.

Taylor said one bus involved was No. 2120 (route 23), that she visited a hospital and now requires therapy, and that she has requested HRT fix the buses and improve operations to secure wheelchairs in service. She also urged better protections for riders during inclement weather when drivers or other passengers refuse to assist.

Council members did not adopt a formal motion related to HRT during the meeting. Taylor framed the complaint as a personal injury and asked the council to press HRT to address maintenance and accessibility practices; she said she is pursuing the matter through her attorney.

Looking ahead: Taylor said she has shared video evidence with her lawyer and indicated she will seek legal remedy; she asked the city to press HRT on equipment and training improvements.