subject: A Handicap Lift that Protects the Wheelchair [print this page] A Handicap Lift that Protects the Wheelchair
A power handicap lift that fits on the exterior rear of a vehicle is a good way to carry a wheelchair or power scooter. It serves to free up the inside of the automobile for passengers and saves the arduous hassle and strain of pulling the chair out and putting it back in the vehicle. This was probably one of the best applications for someone needing a portable wheelchair until recently.
The biggest drawback to the rear lift gate was that the chair or scooter was exposed to the elements, which could be a problem on a long trip or in inclement weather. This was alleviated somewhat by putting a cover over the chair, but still the chair was exposed to the cold, heat, rain, dust, and other unsatisfactory conditions.
In some instances, it is difficult to park in a garage and close the garage door because the length of the vehicle with the protruding lift is too long for the allotted space.
Now, a new lift that mounts inside the vehicle has taken the scooter or wheelchair out of the elements, without costing a great deal in the mobility and ease of carrying it. This handicap lift works well in vans and rear hatch type SUVs. Although it does take up room inside the vehicle, it is in the back where the cargo typically goes.
The handicap lift itself mounts on the floor and to one side (typically the passenger side) of the cargo space. The boom tilts down when not in use so that it frees up more space in the area. That same boom can extend out while the chair is attached to clear the vehicle before lowering it to the ground.
Because the mechanism is to one side of the cargo area, it doesn't present a problem for the driver to see out of the vehicle when the chair is not in the vehicle. Mounting it to the passenger side allows everything in the operation to be done on the curbside away from traffic.
Lifts of this kind make it easy for a passenger in the vehicle to retrieve the chair and bring it to the handicap person without the need of lifting a heavy unit. A young child can handle the duties without much effort.
Although this handicap lift works better in a hatch type design, it is still okay to use with the double doors that are available on some vans.
