Regardless of the individual, life is naturally full of challenges. However, the mental, physical, and emotional confrontations of the disabled are often insurmountable. But, many activities people generally take for granted are possible because handicap vans provide independence for the disabled.
Necessity
For many disabled individuals, handicap vans are a matter of necessity. Imagine needing to go to the doctor and having no way to get there. In some towns, public transportation is available. But, at least 24 hours notice is required to hitch a ride.
What if the problem is unexpected and urgent? An ambulance will have to be called. The ride is as bumpy and uncomfortable as a huge truck with no shocks, not to mention the expense. Of course, then there is the dilemma of getting back home.
Think about all of the normal, everyday activities that are denied people with disabilities, simply because accessible transportation is not available. They are dependent on caregivers to shop for groceries and so much more.
Socialization
Although socialization might not be considered a necessity, think what it would be like to never be able to leave the house. Forget having a job, going to church, taking in a movie, watching a live Baseball game. Of course, the list of possible activities is endless.
Human beings are meant to be around other people. Handicap vans give the disabled the opportunity to participate in life. The ability to go places is essential to a good quality of living.
The Caregivers
Of course, don’t forget the people that dedicate their lives to helping the disabled. Whether it is a friend, family member, or health care worker, handicapped vans also make their jobs easier and more enjoyable. With the proper transportation, they too can enjoy other activities and introduce their charges to a myriad of fun and necessary outings.
So, whether it is a picnic in the park or a trip to the doctor, handicapped vans give the disabled and their caregivers an independence that most people take for granted. With the right transportation, it literally opens up a world of experiences.
These are given to them by the state. They provide proof of handicap, and then they are issued a plaque if they desire one.
You can get used handicap vans or wheelchair vans in Nashville at the Nashville centers of the following stores/ websites:http://www.mobilityvansales.com/used-handicap-vans/vansales-in-nashville-tennessee.html; http://www.usedhandicapvans.net/; http://www.aavans.com/Vehicles/UsedWheelchairVans.aspx;
You could go to a store that sells handicap vans and see what their prices are. Or you could ask other people that you know that are experienced with handicap vans that may lead you in the right direction.
I don't think van are required to have handicap features, I think you have to have them added on...sort of like extras. Cars and vans are the same so there is no law that says that all vans must have handicap features.
There are several used car dealerships that have may sell used handicap vans. Used vans can also be converted into a handicap van. You may be able to find used handicap vans at car dealers in the area, as well as on CraigsList. A great website to find them in the Memphis area is http://www.mobilityvansales.com/used-handicap-vans/tennessee_vansales.html.
grants for handcap vans
Vans with the ability to support a handicapped person can be purchased from handicap stores, where one can either buy or rent a van to his specifications.
There are several companies online that sell handicap vans and deliver them nationwide. Two such companies are Mobility Vans USA at http://www.mobilityvansusa.com, and Ams Vans at http://www.amsvans.com.
Most car dealership will be able to steer you to a dealer in handicap vans. There should also be listings in your local yellow pages for either dealers in them or places that will customize a van for you.
One can find handicap accessible vans locally in your telephone company's Yellow Pages or on the YP's website.You could also try Ride-Away on the web.
Yes there areseveral companies taht will rent you a handicap van. I would check out the information at www.wheelersvanrentals.com. Texas Wheelchair Accessible Vans offer rentals of handicap vans. You can visit their website at http://www.txwheelchairvans.com/.
Some major car makers do offer hadicap accesible vans. It also isn't very difficult to modify a van to be handicap accesible.