Finding and Choosing a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle

Wheelchair users are faced with many mobility challenges and a specially conditioned vehicle which accommodates their wheelchair in a comfortable and easy manner can make a huge difference to their quality of life. Whether the wheelchair user wants to drive or to be driven there is a suitable wheelchair access vehicle available to suit them.

 Wheelchair accessible vehicles are available as standard conversions or they can be custom built to suit the needs and necessities of people with different capabilities and capacities. If the wheelchair user wants to be able to be the driver this will almost always entail a custom conversion as the vehicle may require hand controls, a steering ball, a left foot accelerator or other specialised modifications. For a driver who wants full independence, a winch can be a great help in getting the wheelchair up the side ramp and into the driving position unaided. 


Passenger WAVs are normally accessed via a ramp through a back door. The wheelchair users can wheel themselves up the gentle incline or be aided by an assistant or make use of a winch attached to the front of the chair. Inside the vehicle, the wheelchair is securely anchored in position either in the rear part of the vehicle or it can pass right through into the driving or front passenger position. Some people may opt to enter into the vehicle in this way and then use a swivel seat which allows easy transfer from the wheelchair into a standard driving or front passenger seat. The set up you choose will depend upon how many wheelchair users and how many other passengers and luggage space you require.


Ramps require quite a large amount of space behind the vehicle to allow access, so some people prefer a lift. These are remote controlled, electronically operated platforms and they are particularly useful in larger vehicles where several wheelchair users can be accommodated. Think about the size of vehicle which is most practical for you, and where you will be driving and parking the vehicle to help to make your decision.


There are many different makes of wheelchair accessible vehicles available and different conversions of the same model can offer distinct advantages. It is important therefore to consider carefully before making a final choice, and before purchasing many people choose to rent a WAV to see how they get on with it and to discover any points that they had not considered. When you finally decide on the model that suits you don't be afraid to ask for a home trial to make sure there is nothing you have overlooked. A WAV is not cheap so make sure that you make a wise investment.

Source: Finding and Choosing a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle