You need it to have a roomy interior, and an air powered lift.
Durability would perhaps be one of the most necessary features to look for when purchasing a used wheelchair van. Also look for accessibility for the indiviudal using the wheelchair.
You can look for a good used wheelchair accessible van at mobilityvansales.com.
A whell chair accessible van will have a loading device for wheelchairs. There will also be special storage in the van to accomadate wheelchairs. Most wheelchair vans have a motorized lift for the wheelchair beside the door. They also have extra space in the back for the wheelchair.
The following are the common safety features available in a handicap van * Roominess in the Handicap Van - The doors should be wide enough to comfortable provide for wheelchair access or allow a person using a walking aide to comfortably get into the van. * Easy to Reach Controls * Wheelchair Ramp or Lift Most handicap van will have all of the typical vehicle safetyfeatures like airbags. You will also find special storage to secure a wheelchair.
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.
Be sure that the door opening is wide enough to accommodate the wheelchair patient comfortably. Look for a lower wheelbase or be sure that a ramp can accommodate the elevation to the door.
Buying any used vehicle is tough. You should have a mechanic with you too inspect the vehicle prior to purchase.
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.
3000.00 look on Ebay
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.
Type on google "wheelchair van service, your city and state" something should come up near you.
Check with websites like Ride Away. They will help you find a wheelchair van rental place in your area. WheelchairGetaways.com specializes in wheelchair van rental. They should be able to help you find a place in New York.