Tips For Buying A Wheelchair Minivan

Buying a wheelchair minivan will increase your mobility and provide you with an added sense of freedom. When you begin looking at vans for sale, whether new or refurbished, you will probably be surprised to learn just how many different manufacturers and types exist.

Wheelchair seating is available in the front driver and passenger areas, and in the mid-passenger center section of the vehicle. The goal of the lowered-floor minivan is to give wheelchair users the convenience of a minivan, along with plenty of headroom and the ease of using a simple ramp to access the vehicle. Simply drive onto the platform. As the lift is operated, the scooter is raised and securely clamped without additional tie-downs. For example, you need to check if the wheelchair lift has a back-up lifting or lowering mechanism should the main drive system fail. Once you've sorted out your needs, it's easier to choose between these advanced mobility systems.

Several different configurations are possible, including wheelchair placement alone in the back of the van, as the front passenger seat, to replace the driver's seat or as part of the seating in the rear of the van. Certain cities or states require one or the other configuration, so make sure to find out what the rules are in your locality before purchasing.

The most important thing is to make sure that the vehicle you choose works with your wheelchair. Plan on loading and unloading it and make sure that you familiarize yourself with the different types of ramps and lifts. Ramps provide an easy transition into the vehicle, commonly with a slope of 5-degrees or less, readily accessible by powerchairs or manual wheelchairs. While fold-up ramps are practical in both power and non-powered versions, in-floor ramps are increasingly popular, as, when stowed, they don't block the door for other passengers.

Wheelchair lifts are also referred to as platform lifts, which are actually streamlined versions of elevators engineered to move a wheelchair two meters or less. In addition, they are designed to handle just one person in a wheelchair at a time with a weight limit of 750 lbs. Wheelchair lifts are not only space-efficient, they also are easy to navigate and operate. Because they are less complex than elevators, wheelchair lifts can be installed and maintained for a lower cost.

Regardless of the type of wheelchair accessible minivan configuration that you choose, whether you opt for a vehicle with a ramp or lift built in, or for one that is equipped to handle either one for occasional use, be sure to shop around and make sure that your new vehicle is a good fit for both your needs and the wheelchairs that it will be transporting

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If you're looking for more information on a wheelchair minivan, visit Mid America Coach.

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