Seniors who need transportation in Westport can contact the Transit District.
There are 2 great, and important, services.
But, says Lynn Flint, it’s not enough.
A senior herself, she says there are obstacles. For example, one of the services is limited to Westport.
The second requires pre-booking and a prepaid account, a difficulty for some people. (Uber is tough for some seniors too, she notes.)
Lynn had an idea: purchase a full-size luxury sedan, which people could call — like a taxi, but nicer.
Not one to sit around waiting, Lynn bought one herself: a 2003 black Mercedes S500 VS.
She took it to Smitty’s Gulf Service Center in Norwalk. They checked it out. changed the oil, and installed a new battery.
Lynn Flint’s Mercedes
Lynn called Westport Town Hall, and said she had a car. All she needed was a driver.
But that’s not the way things work in local government. She was told the town could not be responsible for transporting seniors, due to liability.
Now, she’s stuck with a Mercedes. She’s lookin for someone who would like to go into the business of driving people around.
“It’s low to the ground,” she says. “There are no steps. It’s comfortable and sturdy.
“It has a big back seat and floor for walkers and other equipment, and a large trunk for shopping trip. It’s a heavy car, so it would be fine in bad weather. And it’s quite dignified.
“It’s ready to go for anyone who wants to start taking people around.”
The best way to contact Lynn is by cell: 203-226-3849. If she doesn’t answer, text her or send an email: flintlynn711@gmail.com.
1-it’s LOUSY in snow, it’s 20yrs old, no mileage stated, but even a 20 yr old Mercedes will have on the rd problems, insurance as a “carrier” is expensive…Lynn Flynt is generously, considerately and considerably out of her mind if she thinks some good doer is gonna’ jump in and drive folks around as a taxi just ’cause it’s the right thing to do… in someone else’s car.
With regrets (lovely idea in theory), totally agree with Mr Katz, otherwise I’d throw my hat in the ring.
I’m not sure why she didn’t check things out at town hall before she bought the car? One phone call would have ended the idea. However, I bet she’s one of the kindest people in town! The next time I’m in Westport, I’ll treat her to lunch or dinner.
What a great idea. Good luck Lynn.
Of course I called Town Hall first. They were extremely enthusiastic, thoight it was a great idea. We could pick up dignitaries at the train station who are coming in to give talks to groups in town. We could use it in the Memorial Day Parade as well as doctor’s appointments for shopping trips. That’s why I bought the car. You down Trippers are a bunch of down trippers.. Enjoy your dark clouds and don’t ever need a ride.
call Dave Capasse
It’s not, Lynn, that we are “down trippers” at all.
We are realists…pls check the price of commercial transport liability insurance…premiums in two years are more than you pd for the car…also, that particular car, is a bob sled in more than an inch or two of snow; and, Lynn, it’s an antique car and, owning about 30 antique cars over the years, I can tell you that neither you or a “driver” would want to pay for maintaining your classic car….generous idea but deeply flawed and impulsive.
Curious who in Town Hall was extremely enthusiastic told you it was a great idea? The same person that then told you it wasn’t possible for liability reasons? Did they at least apologize for doing the 180 on you?
I’m actually surprised someone in town hall thought this was a good idea! They should have told you to contact your insurance agent! What does one need to be an Uber driver or a taxi driver?
Regret but have to agree with Dan- I have mutilple old Benzs and the care and feeding of an old car is not for the weak of wallet- and I do it as a hobby!
In Connecticut, State Law regulates all categories of motor vehicle transportation, like taxicabs and limousine services, whether fee based or free. Moreover, operators/drivers of public transportation vehicles are subject to State of Connecticut MVD rules and licensing requirements.
To the best of my knowledge and experience, there is not a Town agency with the authority to advise the public on such matters.
I too, would be curious to know the Town Hall source of this kind-hearted, well-intentioned lady’s bad advice.
there was, at one point, a local organization that did just this. it was called “INT” i believe. it was around at least 5-6 years ago, but i am not sure about after that. i always thought that it was the exact kind of volunteering i would like to do, since i love driving. i always seem to have my own kids to drive all over town, however, so haven’t had the opportunity to volunteer. my point is, if there is an established charity, or not-for- profit, perhaps there are ways around some of the challenges others are presenting in the comments. Presenting in a rather unsupportive and Debbie downer fashion, i might add!
Another organization, “Safe Rides”, drove teens home on weekends to prevent DUI. Somehow teens were able to drive teens in their own cars. Maybe a similar model could be used to arrange rides for Seniors — even in Lynn’s lovely Benz (weather permitting).