@SuperMouse Yes, some people with a walking disability could be carried down a stairwell, but it is going to depend upon the people involved. In the US, laws to accommodate people with disabilities are more likely to get passed with the aid of the ADA (American Disabilities Association). Until they are go into effect, it is unlikely to happen.
Evacuation wheelchairs, at least the couple that I have seen, might be helpful, but are slow. They are expensive to purchase, install and probably maintain. My guess is that it would be cheaper to build or renovate a building to accommodate a hotel room or office on the first floor.
@YARNLADY I’ve inspected hundreds of hotels, and only a few have had all handicapped rooms on the 1st floor. Maybe you just haven’t noticed this. Handicapped rooms are typically designed for a variety of disabilities. They are wheelchair accessible and include a lighted alarm system for people with a hearing disability. I think that all hallway signs are now required to be in braille, or at least upon upgrade.
Wheelchair accessible rooms are typically the last to be rented for two reasons. 1.) People do not make an advance reservation for one unless they need it. 2.) People without a disability do not like to stay in one. We have received a few complaints about being placed in one by people who showed up without a reservation at night, and that was all that was available. My only guess as to why is because the bathrooms are configured differently, like a roll-in shower instead of a tub.