Ready For A Handicapped-Accessible Van? What To Consider
Posted on: 12 July 2018
Wheelchair life takes getting used to. If you're feeling more confident about ambulating and socializing in your chair, you may finally feel comfortable with your new life, even with a handicap. When you're finally beginning to see that your life can be as rich and social as anyone else's, you may want to drive. You'll need a wheelchair-accessible or handicap van. To ensure suitability, what should take focus while searching?
Body Space
You don't want to feel squished or uncomfortable in your own car, even with your chair. If space seems tight, move on. You shouldn't only feel fine in behind the wheel; there will be times when you're being transported by a caregiver or another person, so you should at all times feel there's sufficient room.
Roof
The van roof is important to you because you don't want to injure yourself whenever you drive. If you roll into position only to find your head is in contact with the van roof, keep looking.
Mobility Controls
The existing hand setup may seem bulky. Luckily, you can shop around separately for a system of mobility buttons and levers which feels better. Of course, that could mean more money invested in the van, but if you love one van for other reasons or are getting a reasonable discount or deal, installing another system is a possibility. The search can also continue until you find a van with a hand system you like already installed.
Ramp Setup
A ramp will extend so riding up and down for entry and exit can happen. Some ramps are powered by the car's battery and will automatically fold and extend. Some ramps are simply wound by hand. If you're someone whose handicap affects your arms, this is obviously going to create an issue to work around. Even if your arms are strong, it's not always desirable to have to exert that much effort.
This setup too can be adjusted. Money will need to be kept aside for that, so it could mean looking for more affordable vehicles if you're set on an electric model that isn't showing up in any of the vans you've seen.
Your van can be customized further so that it's perfect for your chair and the trips you're likely to take. Retailers, other handicapped drivers, and caregivers can weigh in, but your attention toward these issues will enable solid choices about the van you want. For more information, contact a company like Lone Star Handicap Vans.
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