Wheelchair Vans: Creating Comfortable Trips for the Handicapped

What are Wheelchair Vans?
A handicap van is a vehicle that has features for comfortably accommodating handicapped passengers or drivers. They are equipped with ramps or lifts for boarding and exiting the vehicle. Safety locks and buttons are also included, so that the wheelchair user can sit comfortable inside without shaking . Several modern models include special controls to allow handicapped drivers to operate with just their hands.
Basically, wheelchair vans appear like ordinary vehicles on the outside. They are just modified to be compatible with handicapped users. There are companies that offer handicap vans, which are already equipped with special features. You may also opt to hire a service if you wish to convert your own van. There are also dealers of used handicap vans.
According to companies' sales records, more than 80% of buyers choose mini vans over large vans. This is primarily due to the price gap. Mini vans are recommended for personal or small family use. However, due to size limitation, a mini van cannot be equipped with mechanical wheelchair lifts. Only foldable ramps can be used with smaller vehicles. If you intend to use the van for commercial or multiple-wheelchair passengers, it is recommended to purchase a full-sized model.
For a full sized van, installation of a lift can cost up to $6000. If you also want the floor depth and roof height to be adjusted, the total expenses can reach $20000.
Considerations for Buying a Vehicle for the Handicapped
Space and the expected number of passengers are important considerations in choosing wheelchair vans. If you have many handicapped passengers, there are higher chances that you have tall passengers. The seating height of people on wheelchairs needs more vertical clearance . Vertical allowance is one of the main differences between full sized and mini vans. Full sized vans are easily modifiable in terms roof height and floor level. Hence, you can obtain a vertical space of about 50-60 inches. Hence, full sized vehicles are recommended for multiple handicapped passengers. It is also more convenient for installing wheelchair lifts. A full sized van can also handle weights of up to 1100 lbs.
The next important factor is the clearance needed by the wheelchair lift. The wheelchair lift is a mechanism, usually powered by electricity, which lifts a wheelchair together with its rider. You can think of it as a mini elevator. By using it, you do not need to carry the handicapped from the wheelchair to a seat in the van. However, during operation, the platform of the lift needs extra space outside the vehicle. The required clearance is about 6 feet for side entry lifts or ramps. It is wise to choose rear entry wheelchair lifts, especially for buildings with tight parallel parking.
Purchasing a brand new van has several advantages over used ones. There is a 36K mile guarantee for the equipment, safety features and the vehicle itself. Since the technology for wheelchair vans is being developed constantly, newer models are safer and more effective. Just make sure that your dealer or modification service is a member of the NMEDA.

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Bob Lundin is an expert when it comes to New and used wheelchair vans. To find out everything about New and used handicap vans, visit our website at www.mobilityclassifieds.com.

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