The Americans With Disabilities Act opened a lot of doors, literally and physically, for US residents with limited mobility. Many other developed and developing countries have similar statutes in place, making the world more accessible than ever. Physically getting from your home to wherever you need to go can still be a challenge if you're disabled, though. Fortunately, a combination of private and public transportation options has in recent years helped millions of folks across the world enjoy their right to full mobility.

1. Modified Private Cars

Whether you're recently disabled or have been dealing with limited mobility for years, nowhere is it written that you can no longer drive yourself around. If your vehicle is larger, it's especially easy to install the necessary lift system and hand pedals. These modifications aren't cheap, but they aren't ruinous either, and many comprehensive life insurance or "assurance" policies help foot the bill. In other countries, as you'll see, there's public money set aside for precisely this purpose.

2. Mobility Credits

As part of its generous social safety net, the United Kingdom provides a combination of grants, credits and allowances to disabled individuals for the purposes of purchasing a modified vehicle. The catch is that the plan doesn't allow for the modification of an individual's existing car, so most people end up selling their old rides to cover the gap between the scheme's payout and the actual cost of a "mobility car." The US and UK both have networks of specialty car dealers that cater specifically to the needs of the disabled. Remember, you're not alone!

3. Paratransit Programs

In addition to fully-accessible public buildings, the Americans With Disabilities Act provides for "paratransit" programs that specifically cater to folks with mobility issues. You'll need to apply directly to your state's paratransit agency and provide medical documentation that proves your physical hardship. You'll also need to pay for each ride that you take, although this can be done in advance. Most of these programs operate in urban or suburban areas, although some predominantly rural states have innovative on-call services that provide surprisingly good geographical coverage.

4. Dial-a-Ride

Dial-a-Ride services are different from paratransit options because they also cater to seniors and others who don't drive. The upshot is that Dial-a-Ride services usually cover wider areas, and many will occasionally take their regular users on field trips to shopping malls or tourist attractions. You'll need to arrange your ride a day or more in advance, however, so Dial-a-Ride services aren't great for last-minute trips.

5. Ride-to-Work Programs

If limited mobility isn't keeping you out of the workforce, more power to you. Many cities and states offer ride-to-work programs for disabled folks who don't live on bus or train routes and don't want to deal with arranging Dial-a-Ride services in advance. These programs are often the fruits of partnerships between local governments and private transportation companies.

Getting around town can be challenging if you have a mobility issue, but there are plenty of options out there if you know where to look. Modifying your existing vehicle or purchasing a new modified car are the most expensive of these, but they provide for greater independence. Alternatively, many municipalities and states offers robust ride-sharing and on-call programs aimed at getting you where you need to go.

Katie Pierce is a full-time writer in Chicago. She recommends www.mobilitycars.com if you are interested in learning more about mobility cars.