I will be in New York City this weekend with my friend who has a walking disability. We will need to take cabs a lot; are cab drivers going to give us a hard time if it's not a great distance for them, but is a great distance for her?

Taxi drivers love short hops. Don't forget they make the most money the minute you sit in the taxi and the initial drop of $2.00 goes on the meter. Going just a couple of blocks can run you $3 or $4 based on traffic. Your concern is a non-issue. Enjoy those taxis and your stay.

I can't answer your question, but will suggest you immediately find a Manhatten Bus schedule when you get to town. The number and frequency of buses in NYC is astounding. Purchase an visitor's "Fun Pass" ($4 - 1 day) for unlimited bus (and subway) service. I can't imagine a short distance being a problem for a cab driver, but if a bus will get you there too, why not us it?

The pass is available at most subway stops, the NYC Visitors Center Times Sq, Hudson News in the baggage claim area of most airports. (to reply, remove the x from my eddress)

Neil:
Both previous posters have given good info. I would definetly agree with 'r-travels' to utilize the city bus system. The subway would be difficult for your friend, becaus of all the up and down stir-climibing that needs to be done. (Many stations don't have escalators, and onlt a few have elavators directly from the st.)
Another good thing about the buses is that they're 'kneeling', meaning that the driver will 'lower' the bus entrance almost to ground level, for easy entry. And people that are in the very front of the bus are generally are giving for seating space - if not just ask kindly for a seat. Using both cabs and buses wil save both of you some money.

As was pointed out Cab drivers like short hops. If you are only going a short distance a cab would be preferable to a bus since you don't have to walk to a bus stop. A taxi drive of less than a mile will cost about $3.50 plus a tip. The bus ride will cost two people $3

Thank you all; I was really worried about this but am not now!