subject: Wheelchair Accessible Vans Now in the Sporty and Compact Minivan [print this page] Wheelchair Accessible Vans Now in the Sporty and Compact Minivan
Consumers needing wheelchair accessible vans can now choose a sporty, compact minivan instead of the regular full-sized van. These vans can be equipped with ramps or lifts and can comfortably handle several seating arrangements. While less interior room than a full-sized van, there is still sufficient room to meet the needs of the handicapped person.
There are at least three choices for ramp access into the minivan for a wheelchair or scooter: side entry lowered floor models, rear entry lowered floor models, and front entry lowered floor models. In the side entry models the wheelchair user enters at the second row and may be accommodated in the front or second row of seating. For rear entry models the passengers enter on the ramp in the rear and remain in the second or third row of seating. Front entry models allow a wheelchair to enter on the front seat side, positioning the wheelchair for the handicapped person to drive.
Accessible vans provide the handicapped person with freedom, independence, and convenience. No more does the wheelchair dependent person have to rely on help to get in and out of a vehicle, and in the case of those choosing to drive, he or she no longer has to rely on friends and family to take them where they need to go. It's a snap to run errands, go to the doctor, see a movie, visit a friend, or take a vacation. With accessible vans equipped with handicapped operating tools, such as hand controls or adjusted hand and pedal controls, there are no limitations to where a handicapped person can travel.
Ramps can be manually operated or automatically powered. Some ramps can be stored in a compartment inside the minivan, while others fold inside the vehicle. Ramps are generally easy to use and often less expensive. They require little maintenance. However, a lift may be easier to use for the handicapped person alone.
Lifts mount to a trailer hitch or inside the vehicle and can be used to store the wheelchair during travel or as a place to lock the wheelchair for use during travel. They can be installed in the trunk, rear of a vehicle, side opening of a minivan, or at the driver's side allowing for driving the minivan.
Minivans are generally easier to maneuver than full-sized vans and certainly make for a sportier look as far as accessible vans go.
