If you or a loved one uses a wheel chair you know that mobility is an issue. Those with disabilities are often unable to easily get around because they don't have the proper transportation. It is easy to plan a setup for handicap vehicles. Setting up your own handicap accessible vehicle can be less expensive than purchasing a new vehicle with a complete handicap setup.
The first step is to determine the type of vehicle to choose. Full size vans and minivans are the two types of vehicles that are most often used. A full size van may be more expensive at the onset; however, the minivan usually needs to have the floor lowered. This can be an expensive undertaking but is necessary to provide enough headroom for a wheelchair.
An option that is a necessity in handicap vehicles is the wheelchair lift. The lift is essential in getting the wheelchair into the van. Wheelchairs can be quite heavy, particularly those that are fully equipped. The lift can be used by anyone since no special strength is needed for operation. There are two main types of lifts; those that lift the wheelchair into the van without the occupant and those that lift the wheelchair with the occupant seated inside.
The lift can be installed at either the side door or the rear door of the van. Handicap vehicles must provide easy access to the wheelchair occupant. Once inside the vehicle the wheelchair must be able to turn or move into place. The wheelchair can take the place of a seat in the van. The extra seats are removed in handicap vehicles so that the wheelchairs or scooters will easily fit.
There are other options that must be considered when setting up handicap vehicles. Special locking devices are necessary to secure the wheelchair in place inside the van. Driving controls designed for disabled drivers can assist in allowing them to drive alone. These are essential in giving mobility to those who are otherwise homebound. Handicap vehicles can allow those in a wheelchair to drive and manage the vehicle alone, giving them the freedom and mobility they deserve.
When setting up a handicap accessible van it's important to follow all safety regulations that apply to the options. Choose the features that you require and when possible, have the options and features professionally installed to ensure that they will function safely and properly for years to come.