The Features of a Wheelchair Van

What makes a wheelchair van different from an regular van are the features which were designed to help and allow disabled or handicapped persons to be able to move and drive around. Some of these vans were intentionally manufactured for handicaps but often they were customized by people themselves. Now, whether you are buying a fully-manufactured wheelchair van or simply planning to customize an ordinary van, the necessary features still remain the same. Some would suggest that buying a manufactured wheelchair van is the better choice. And some would contend that customizing is the way to go since you build and get exactly what you want. But whatever choice you take, the following features should be contained by the van.

1)hand controls – These makes it very easy for a disabled person to drive a car on his own. A wheelchair van wouldn't be complete without these hand controls. They would seem very complicated in the beginning but once you get used to them, they really aren't that hard to utilize. These hand controls can be activated by simply screwing and connecting them to the van. Once connected, you can easily control the brakes and the accelerator using only your hands. What's good about these controls is that they can be easily disconnected and the van can be driven again the normal way.
2) the wheelchair lift – Getting in and getting out of a car is one of the biggest problems being faced by disabled persons. However, with a wheelchair lift, it doesn't have to be a problem anymore. The wheelchair lift allows a person to get in and get out of a vehicle with not much of a hassle. A wheelchair van can be fitted with a lift either on the inside or on the outside. Obviously, each has its advantages and disadvantages but the internal lift would still be the better option. It's more expensive but it works more effectively. There are also two types of wheelchair lifts – electric and hydraulic.
3)the ramp – The ramp allows for an easy way of rolling in and out of a van. It must be installed with anti-skid features to avoid the wheelchair from sliding suddenly and causing serious harm to the wheelchair-bound. You can also choose from a motorized or a manually-controlled ramp.
4)the transfer seat – This is a movable seat that can get you from the back to the front of the van in an easy manner. It allows you to swivel around. It may be placed either on the driver's or on the passenger's seat.
5)safety equipment – These include seat belts, wheelchair tie downs, wheelchair straps and brackets. These are necessary in securing the safety of the driver and passenger. A wheelchair that is left unstrapped within the vehicle while driving can easily cause injuries and accidents.

There are other features that can be installed to a wheelchair van but the above-mentioned are the most common and most important ones. Always make sure to check a van if indeed it contains these features.

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IMED mobility is a premier supplier of wheelchair accessible vehicles and equipment. We carry a wide range range of handicap accessible vans. Contact one of our Certified Mobility Consultants 24/7 at IMED Mobility.

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