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A wheelchair or an accessible van is a van that has been designed to accommodate people who use wheelchairs. These vans tend to cost much more than ordinary vans due to the adaptive equipment that is necessary for most people with mobility impairments to operate. Accessible vans can be bought new or used. Ordinary, non accessible vans can be converted into wheelchair vans.
What are some of the features of a wheelchair van?Some of the accessible features include ramps, high tops, hand controls and specialized seating. Ramps come in many different styles and are either manual or hydraulic (electric). High tops increase the height of a van in order to accommodate power or electric wheelchairs, which are often taller than manual wheelchairs. Hand controls are devices that enable someone with limited movement in the legs to operate the van using his or her hands, instead. Some accessible vans have a removable driver's seat so that the person can drive the van from their wheelchair, but often, the seat is modified to fit the needs of the driver.
Is a special license needed to drive a wheelchair van?One does not need a special license to drive an accessible van if it is for personal use. However, employees of agencies that serve people with disabilities may be required by their employer to be trained in the use of the van. Drivers for para-transit companies (companies specializing in the transport of people with disabilities) are almost always required to obtain a commercial driver's license.
Where are wheelchair vans sold?The vast majority of wheelchair accessible vans are sold at dealerships that specialize in building or designing accessible vehicles. This is because the market for accessible vehicles has not reached the point where mainstream van dealers find it profitable to sell them. Companies that sell accessible vehicles are located in most major cities. Independent living centers or other agencies that serve people with disabilities may have information on where to purchase wheelchair vans. Try searching the internet, as well.
Do wheelchair vans require special fuel?Accessible vans are simply ordinary vans that have been modified, therefore, they use regular leaded, unleaded or diesel fuel.
Is funding available for purchasing a wheelchair van?Yes. Banks, as well as accessible van dealerships have financing plans. The Department of Vocational Rehabilitation and agencies serving disabled people can also help with funding. Grants are also available.
What else can I help you with?
Do wheelchair van rentals come with the wheelchair?
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.
Are there any companies that will convert a van into a wheelchair accessible van?
There are currently no companies that specialize in converting a van into a wheelchair accessible van.
Can I get my old van refurbished to accommodate a wheelchair?
You can usually turn any van into a wheelchair accessible van if you take it to the right place.
Where can one hire a wheelchair van from?
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.
Where do I look for a good used wheelchair accessible van?
You can look for a good used wheelchair accessible van at mobilityvansales.com.
What is involved in converting a normal van into a wheelchair accessible van?
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
What are the special features of a wheelchair accessible van?
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.
Will medicaid pay for a wheelchair lift for my van?
will medicade pay for a wheelchair lift
Where can I find good used wheelchair accessible van online?
Perform a search on Ebay for a ood used wheelchair accessible van
What is the purpose of a wheelchair van?
A wheelchair van is a kind of vehicle that is custom made so that a wheelchair can be hoisted and kept inside. These mechanisms are now more common in people mover taxis as well.
Do you need a special van to install a wheelchair lift?
There are different types of wheelchair lifts. There are hitch mounted wheelchair lifts that utilize the hitch on a car, truck or van. They do not require any special vehicle. You have inside vehicle lifts that hoist the wheelchair or scooter into the van. The platform lifts can lift the wheelchair or scooter with someone in it. If it doesn't work with your van don't worry most of the vans can be re-fitted to install the lift.
Where can I get a used wheelchair accessible van?
Used wheelchair vans are sometimes sold at car dealerships.
