To be independent again is one of the most important needs a
disabled person has. We sometimes take the ability to move with
ease from one place to the other, for granted. Choosing a
vehicle is normally, mostly based on price, status or a
preferred model. For disabled people the decision is very
different.
A wheel chair van is converted to ensure optimal comfort and
accessibility for disabled people.
Each person’s medical condition and specific needs, such as
where to and how far they need to travel, will influence the
choice. Once this has been established other factors like
pricing, model and colour preferences can be taken into
consideration.
Wheel chair van is widely available across the United States
and you shouldn’t have any trouble finding suppliers. The
important thing is to know exactly what you need and want before
you start looking for a van.
Wheel Chair Van Entrance
The entrance into and out of the van is either at the back or
the side. Vans that are used to transport disabled people
usually have the entrance at the back for easy access. Disabled
people that are also the drivers of their vans will opt for a
van with a side entrance.
Wheel Chair Van Ramps
Vans with back entrances usually have a fitted ramp. This ramp
can normally roll away or fold up when not in use. Some vans are
equipped with hydraulic or electronic ramps. Portable ramps are
also available and for vans with side entrances this can be
used.
Extra Space Within the Wheel Chair Van
To create extra space inside the van, for easier access with a
wheel chair, vans are made with either a lower floor or a raised
roof. It is for the buyer to decide which one will be the best
for his or her specific needs.
Wheel Chair Van Safety
While safety features are important in all vehicles, it is even
more so for handicapped vehicles. Floor surfaces should be made
from anti-slip materials to avoid accidents when entering or
exiting the van. Tie downs for the wheel chair, to the floor
surface, are also very important and there is normally a choice
between four or five tie downs.
Wheel Chair Van Comfort
Vans can be equipped to have space for two wheelchairs or a
wheel chair and a mobility scooter. You can choose how the
seatbelts should be set to ensure they are within easy reach and
comfortable. Your van can be equipped with total hand controls
and you can choose if you want outside entry controls.
Wheel Chair Van Price
Wheel chair vans can be hired or bought. If the need is only for
a short period of time it will make more sense to hire a van
while it might be more cost effective to buy one if the
disability is permanent. Prices for a basic van is around $29
000 - $36 000. The more features you need, the more expensive it
will become. Another consideration will be to buy a used van
which will be substantially cheaper than a new one.
