subject: What Are Handicapped Van Conversions? [print this page] If you or a loved one have recently become wheelchair bound, you may be struggling to find answers to your mobility questions. While becoming disabled in some way is never a good thing, today's technology makes the lives of the disabled much simpler than ever before. Things like handicapped van conversions can help even the most severely disabled person get around normally, and some handicapped people can even drive with these types of conversions.
Basically, a handicapped van conversion is a system that is installed into a van that's already built. Vans like the Honda Odyssey, the Chrysler Town and Country, and other popular minivans and full size vans can have conversions installed in them in many different forms. Often times, vans are already converted prior to a customer's buying them. Sometimes, though, customers can actually get a company to convert a van they already own.
There are all sorts of conversion systems that can be installed into different types of minivans and full size vans. Some are size entry. These are normally installed by the sliding door. They're great for smaller wheelchairs and for drivers who can get in and out of the van themselves and use a transfer seat and hand controls to actually drive the vehicle. Some conversions are rear entry. They can often be used in places where accessible parking is scarce or unavailable, since they don't really take up any more space than a large van would.
You can also install both manual and automatic forms of these conversions. The manual options are cheaper, but they can only be used, normally, but handicapped individuals who have help getting in and out of the vehicle. Automatic options are great for those independent mobility impaired people who can do a lot of getting in and out of the vehicle on their own but who wouldn't be able to crank a ramp up or down.
All these handicapped van conversions are excellent f or different people with different needs. Before you work out a way to convert your own van or to buy an already converted van, you may need to do some extensive research into the available options. One excellent idea is to talk with a company that specializes in conversions so that you can find out what types will work best for your needs.
