Both regular vans and minivans can be converted into wheelchair accessible vans. The available modifications vary from van to van but include lifts and ramps for side entry and ramps for rear entry.
Yes, you can have a wheelchair loader installed in the back of your van and then remove the back seats to accomodate. This should be done by a professional though, it's hard to install.
In the research I have performed, wheelchair van rentals do not include a wheelchair. They offer a variety of van for all kinds of wheelchairs and scooters, but do not provide a wheelchair for you.
You'll need to have a lift or ramp professionally installed to make your van wheelchair accessable. Due to safety concerns, you shouldn't attempt this yourself.
What kind of conversion you're looking at - a camper van or wheelchair/handicap van for example, can make quite a difference in the cost. A van can be converted to a camper for about $10-15,000. For a handicap/wheelchair van the costs could be as high as $25- 40,000.
There are currently no companies that specialize in converting a van into a wheelchair accessible van.
Whether you are looking to buy a used wheelchair van or a brand new one, there are a few things to consider to make the right choice. Buying a wheelchair van requires a few extra steps than buying a regular car to ensure that every passenger is safe and secure in their travels.Determine your needsBefore beginning the process of buying a wheelchair van, it is important to know what your needs are. If you intend to transport more than one person in a wheelchair or have other special considerations, make sure to factor these needs in when looking for the right wheelchair van.Compare costsWith any major purchase it is crucial to know your budget. Look over what you can afford and narrow your search to the wheelchair vans in your area that are in that price range. If you are buying a used wheelchair van you may need to look for lower asking prices in case you have to repair anything.Take a test driveWhether you are buying a used or a brand new wheelchair van, you always need to take it for a test drive. If possible, take along the wheelchair that needs transporting to ensure that it fits correctly and rides well in the van. While on your test drive, turn off the radio and listen for any unusual noises or vibrations that do not belong. If anything is out of the ordinary, make sure to address these issues before purchase.Check for safetyThe biggest challenge in purchasing a wheelchair van is checking for safety. Try out all of the equipment and features that bring the wheelchair into the van and hold it in place. If anything looks unsafe do not purchase the van until it is repaired. Driving an unsafe wheelchair van is hazardous to not only the people inside the van, but to the drivers around the van as well.Research what the safety laws are for wheelchair vans in your area to ensure that you do not purchase a van that is unsafe for the road. Every person needs a method of transportation, and purchasing the right wheelchair van can provide people with special needs a way to get around safely. By doing your research and following a few simple guidelines you can make a purchase that you can feel confident about.
You can buy wheelchair van conversion kits to make your vehicle wheelchair accessible. AutoAdapt.com and VantageMobility.com offer these components and kits. Creative Mobile Interiors will install conversions and adapt your vanfor you.
You can usually turn any van into a wheelchair accessible van if you take it to the right place.
Hiring a wheelchair van can certainly help with transporting your mother during her recovery. I recommend you have a look at Wheelchair Getaways. They're a wheelchair van rental company that cater for customers in almost every US city.
You can look for a good used wheelchair accessible van at mobilityvansales.com.
It can be a lot of work. Here is some basic info What is involved in converting a normal van into a wheelchair accessible van
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