When purchasing tickets on Ticketmaster, you may come across the term “semi-ambulatory seat” as a seating option. This refers to seats that are designated for people who have mobility impairments but are still able to walk short distances. Here is a detailed explanation of what semi-ambulatory seats are, who they are for, and how to purchase them on Ticketmaster.
What Does Semi-Ambulatory Mean?
The term “semi-ambulatory” refers to someone who has difficulty walking or standing for long periods of time but does not require a wheelchair. Specifically, a semi-ambulatory person may have conditions such as:
- Chronic pain that limits mobility
- Injuries such as broken bones or sprains
- Neurological or muscular conditions like multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, or partial paralysis
- Recovery from surgery
- Fatigue-causing illnesses like cancer or fibromyalgia
- Obesity or pregnancy
- Weakness and instability in the elderly
While these individuals can still walk short distances, they require assistance and seating accommodations in order to attend events and navigate venues. The term “semi-ambulatory” distinguishes them from wheelchair users who are completely unable to walk.
Who Are Semi-Ambulatory Seats For?
Semi-ambulatory seats are designed for attendees who:
- Have mobility impairments or health conditions that limit walking
- Do not require wheelchairs
- Can walk short distances with difficulty or use mobility aids like canes, walkers, crutches, or knee scooters
- Need to avoid long flights of stairs
- Require seats with more leg room
These specialized seats allow semi-ambulatory individuals to attend events that would normally involve extensive walking, standing, or climbing stairs. They provide an accommodation for people who can maneuver at their own pace but require assistance to traverse large venues.
Where Are Semi-Ambulatory Seats Located?
The specific location of semi-ambulatory seats varies by venue, but they are usually placed in areas that provide easy access for people with limited mobility. Typical locations include:
- Near elevators or ramps
- Close to entrances and exits
- In aisles for leg room
- Near restrooms
- Away from stairs
- On ground levels or front rows to avoid stairs
- Near medical stations
Some venues have designated semi-ambulatory sections on ground floors or lower levels for easier access. Stadiums may have semi-ambulatory seating around the handicapped section. Theaters tend to place them on the aisle’s edge near exits. The exact location varies across venues.
What Kind of Seating Accommodations Do Semi-Ambulatory Seats Provide?
Semi-ambulatory seats are designed with additional leg room, space, and accessibility features to accommodate people with mobility impairments. Typical accommodations include:
- More leg room – Additional space between rows for people who need room to stretch legs or use mobility aids
- Wider spaces – Larger seats and more space for maneuvering mobility aids
- No obstructions – Clear path in front of seats without stairs or tight corners
- Armrests – Armrests on each side for stability when sitting and standing
- Accessible floors – Flat, level floor spaces without sunken areas or steps
- Seat stability – Sturdy seats that do not move or shake when used for support
Some venues also have semi-ambulatory sections equipped with specialty seats with padded backs, reclining features, and attachments for mobility devices. The enhanced accessibility allows for a more comfortable experience.
How Do You Purchase Semi-Ambulatory Seats on Ticketmaster?
Ticketmaster has made it easier for customers requiring semi-ambulatory seats to purchase tickets online. Here are the steps to buying these accessible seats on Ticketmaster’s website or app:
- Select Tickets – Choose the number of tickets needed for an event and click “Find Tickets.”
- Select Accessible Seating – Click the “Accessible Seating” filter option on the left side of the event page.
- Choose Semi-Ambulatory Seats – Under ” tickets for patrons who are” filter, check “Semi Ambulatory.”
- View Semi-Ambulatory Offerings – This will display all seats designated for semi-ambulatory attendees.
- Pick Seats – Browse location options and select desired seats.
- Proceed to Checkout – Confirm selection and complete ticket purchase.
If accessible seating does not appear as an option, it means there are no semi-ambulatory seats designated for that particular event and venue. Customers can contact the box office for more details.
Purchasing Semi-Ambulatory Tickets Over the Phone
For customers who prefer to purchase tickets over the phone, call the Ticketmaster sales number and inform the ticket agent that semi-ambulatory seats are needed. Provide details about mobility limitations so they can find suitable ticket options.
Agents can walk customers through available semi-ambulatory seats for a chosen event and make recommendations based on patron needs. Purchases can be completed securely over the phone using credit card information. Carefully review all order details provided by the agent before confirming ticket purchase.
Verifying Your Semi-Ambulatory Seating Order
After purchasing semi-ambulatory seats on Ticketmaster, check your order confirmation closely to ensure correct accessible seats were selected. The seats should be clearly labeled as “semi-ambulatory” on all documentation.
If your tickets do not state “semi-ambulatory” or have the designated wheelchair symbol, contact Ticketmaster immediately to have the order corrected. Mistakes can happen, so double-checking is important.
Save your confirmation as proof of your accessible seating purchase. You may need to show evidence at the venue entrance that you are entitled to the semi-ambulatory seats.
What to Do If Your Needs Change After Purchase
If your mobility condition improves or deteriorates after buying semi-ambulatory seats, contact Ticketmaster to discuss changing your tickets. Depending on availability, some accommodations include:
- Upgrading to wheelchair seats if walking ability worsens
- Changing to regular seating if mobility improves
- Swapping locations to seats with better accessibility
Provide medical documentation if required. Refunds, exchanges or seat changes are not always possible, so contact Ticketmaster as soon as your needs change.
Attending the Event in Your Semi-Ambulatory Seats
On the day of the event, arrive early to navigate security and get comfortably seated. Review your ticket order and look for door signs, ushers or guides to direct you to the semi-ambulatory section.
See an usher immediately if your seats are not suitable due to access issues, obstructions or discomfort. Staff may be able reseat you in a better semi-ambulatory space.
Use caution in crowded areas and request assistance if needed. Enjoy the event knowing your semi-ambulatory needs are met!
Key Takeaways
- Semi-ambulatory seats are for people with mobility impairments who can walk limited distances.
- These accessible seats have extra leg room, space and access features.
- Ticketmaster allows online and phone purchases of designated semi-ambulatory seats.
- Carefully verify your order has correct semi-ambulatory seats selected.
- Contact Ticketmaster if your needs change to swap your seats.
- Arrive early, look for ushers and request any needed assistance.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Semi-ambulatory | Having difficulty walking long distances but not requiring a wheelchair. |
| Accessible seating | Seats designed to accommodate disabilities and mobility limitations. |
| Ticketmaster | A ticket sales and distribution company providing accessible seat options. |
Conclusion
Semi-ambulatory seats allow people with disabilities and mobility impairments to attend events that involve extensive walking, standing and navigating crowded venues. By providing designated accessible seats with more leg room, space and access features, theaters, stadiums and other venues accommodate attendees who can walk limited distances but need seating assistance.
Ticketmaster offers an online and phone purchasing process for buying semi-ambulatory seats clearly labeled for patrons with mobility needs. Carefully reviewing orders and requesting changes if mobility decreases or improves ensures customers get the right accessible seats.
With proper planning and an understanding of what semi-ambulatory seating entails, mobility-challenged customers can enjoy concerts, plays, games and other events in a safe, comfortable manner.
