At ToJ, we know the world isn't as simple as "accessible vs. non-accessible." Even our more thoughtful ToJ Ratings may fall short of the reality. Our ratings cater to the average wheelchair user, but the type of chair you use can make a huge difference.
One of our friends will push her manual chair around New York City, hop out onto the ground at an inaccessible subway station, scoot down the stairs on her rear—dragging her chair with her—then climb back on before launching herself onto a train. We might rate that adventure a 1 for accessibility verging on dangerous, but who are we to say don't do it?
To all the Paralympians, wheelchair users in developing countries, and those doing acrobatics just to get by in life, we salute you. And for those of us who are a little more conservative wherever you are at in life, we hope our ratings provide fair guidance!