subject: Choosing The Perfect Wheelchair Lift [print this page] If you want to have the benefit of a wheelchair accessible vehicle, you do not necessarily need to purchase a brand new car. Many people are already in possession of full-sized vans or minivans that can be made equipped with the technology that provides wheelchair accessibility. The process of changing a standard van to a wheelchair accessible van is called wheelchair van conversion. If you already own a van and want to go through a wheelchair van conversion, you will need to research the options that you have in regard to technology. First of all, you will need to choose the right wheelchair lift.
There are two main types of wheelchair lifts. First of all is a manual wheelchair lift. Installing a manual wheelchair lift in your van has its advantages and disadvantages. On the good side, manual lifts tend to be the less expensive option. They also can fit in smaller vehicles like minivans and even some SUVs. However, by saving money you will also be giving up certain advantages. Manual lifts require a certain amount of effort on your part. If you or your loved one does not have the physical stamina to operate the manual lift, it is probably not the right choice.
The other alternative is an automatic wheelchair lift. Automatic wheelchair lifts are ideal for those people who are not able to operate a manual lift. When you install an automatic lift, you will have to use little to no effort to be lifted into your vehicle. Instead, all you need to do to get you and your wheelchair into a vehicle is press a button. However, automatic lifts also require more space. Some minivans can handle the size and weight, but they are most ideally placed in full-sized vans. Automatic lifts are also the more expensive option. However, if you feel that an automatic wheelchair lift is more suited to your needs, it may be well worth the money.
There are other technology choices that you should think about when you are going through a wheelchair van conversion. You should also consider the option of installing car hand controls. Car hand controls will allow you to drive your vehicle without having to use your legs and feet. Instead, you will be able to use your hands to operate the gas and brake on your car. You can learn more by doing some more research on wheelchair accessible van technology online.
