Purchasing a wheelchair-accessible van is an excellent choice for individuals who cannot drive. Not only is it convenient, but it’s also a safe option. There are even grants available to help cover some of the costs.
Removable seats
Having removable seats in new wheelchair accessible vans make life easier. They can change the overall layout of the vehicle for the wheelchair user and their family or increase the interior space. Several vans include kneeling systems, which help make entry and exit more accessible for both the wheelchair user and caregivers. Removable seats are also available in side-entry vans, which allow the wheelchair user to enter the van in the middle of the front passenger seat. A fold-out ramp is also available in some vehicles to provide a more flexible exit should the power go out. Another option for wheelchair access is the rear entry van, which is also an economical choice for many families. These vans offer easy access and allow entry into a standard parking space. Some of these vehicles have an in-floor wheelchair ramp, which eliminates the need for a ramp to be placed in the back of the van. This is a good option for people who want to avoid moving the wheelchair around. In addition to the fold-out ramp, this type of van may also have tie-downs in the passenger compartment.
Side-entry versus rear-entry
Choosing a wheelchair-accessible van depends on your lifestyle, mobility needs, and vehicle requirements. You’ll find that more accessible vehicles are available now than ever before. You can choose from SUVs, minivans, and vans that are modified for wheelchair passengers. Rear-entry wheelchair-accessible vehicles are less expensive than side-entry designs. They house a fold-out ramp that allows wheelchair users to enter and exit the car. This makes it easier to park, particularly in urban areas. The ramp also helps to maximize interior space for more oversized wheelchairs. The main difference between a side entry and a rear entry van is how the ramp is deployed. A side entry wheelchair van may have a ramp that is manually operated or powered. In addition to the ramp, the vehicle may have a lift to help a wheelchair user get in and out of the car. In many cases, the charge will stay inside the van. A side entry van is a popular choice for wheelchair-accessible transportation. It provides more ground clearance for oversized wheelchairs and allows wheelchair seating in the truck’s center. It also offers a broader, more roomy seating area and can accommodate up to three wheelchair users. Its ability to handle large wheelchairs makes it a good option for families.
Safety features
Whether you’re buying a new wheelchair-accessible van or trying to convert an existing one, finding a vehicle that’s both comfortable and safe is essential. Modern vans include several features that make it easier to get around and help protect passengers. The ADA Accessibility Guidelines, or AAG, establish minimum requirements for accessibility in public transportation. These guidelines are translated into regulations by the US Department of Transportation. While many of these guidelines are voluntary, they specify design criteria and procedures for frontal impact, side impact, and occupant restraints. These standards also contain methods for evaluating the accommodation of belt restraints and strategies for performing quasi-static tests of wheelchair seating systems. Wheelchair-accessible vans are typically equipped with a platform lift. The platform lift allows wheelchair users to enter the vehicle without climbing stairs. However, wheelchairs that are not appropriately secured can flip over in a crash. Therefore, finding a wheelchair-accessible van with a reliable securement system is essential. A securement system includes locking systems that secure the wheels of a wheelchair to the floor of the vehicle. It also has manual tie-downs and retractable tie-downs.
Maintenance
Taking care of your wheelchair-accessible van is an excellent way to keep it in top shape. Regular maintenance will help prevent stranding your disabled loved ones. The NMEDA (National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association) recommends a maintenance schedule for your wheelchair-accessible vehicle. It includes 18-point system checkups, tune-ups, and oil changes. Typically, these maintenance specials save you 10-20 percent off the typical preventive maintenance appointment. The best part is that it’s usually affordable. The first step in maintaining a wheelchair van is ensuring it’s safe. Check out the tie-downs, handles, wheels, and other hardware for wear. You also want to check out the wiring for loose or frayed wires. The key is to do this at least once a year. Checking for the most common malfunctions is a good idea, as is replacing the battery after a long road trip. In addition to cleaning, you should also have your wheelchair-accessible van’s electrical system checked. Make sure you have a good battery, as back-feeding power can blow a conversion fuse.
Grants available to offset costs
Whether you need a wheelchair-accessible van for yourself or your disabled family member, grants are available to offset the costs of using it. There are also loan programs to finance accessible vehicles. Before you buy a wheelchair van, you need to write down a list of the features you need. Then, test drives the vehicle and see if it meets your needs. If it doesn’t, you should save up for a while before you can afford it. Many automotive manufacturers offer rebates for wheelchair-accessible vans. You can also find grant programs through nonprofit organizations and private groups. The United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers grants to veterans with disabilities. There are also state grants to fund wheelchair-accessible vans. Some programs provide a loan guarantee. Another program is the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) 203(k) rehabilitation loan. This type of loan allows homeowners to refinance current mortgages. Private lenders offer personal home improvement loans. These loans typically have low-interest rates and penalty-free early payoffs. You can also find renovation-specific loan products from Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae.
