Posts Tagged ‘handicap conversion van’

The Right Process for Handicap Van Conversion Buying

In today’s marketplace, there are a large number of handicap van conversions available for disabled people. There are lifts, driving devices and ramps to make mobility easier. Many customers haven’t owned this type of vehicle before, and the choices can be a lot to take in. However, it is possible to become an educated buyer through researching appropriately. Follow these simple steps to ensure a proper fit and experience.

Understand the disabled equipment available. Today there is a handicap conversion van or other adaptation for almost any physical ailment. Scooter lifts, handicap seats, handicap platform lifts, and hand controls can make almost any car, truck, SUV, minivan, or crossover more accessible. Handicap vans with a ramp are the most common and the peak of accessibility.

Find an accredited mobility dealer. Conversion handicap van dealers are different from a traditional automobile dealership. If a handicap van conversion breaks down, the dealer should be able to assist with a problem right away. After all, an accessible van is far more important than a traditional automobile for the people who use them. In addition to 24 hour service capabilities, a mobility dealer should be certified with the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association. NMEDA has special programs to certify appropriate safety and quality measures have been taken on each handicap van sold through a NMEDA dealer.

Check their references. Handicap conversion van dealers often have past customers who can serve as a guide to the quality of their work. Many satisfied customers mean a reputable dealership. Be skeptical of any dealer who is unable to offer personal references. Contact each one and find out the level of service they have experienced.

Handicap van conversions can come fully assembled, or you can buy a van and send it to the factory. Buying conversion handicap vans pre-assembled will save time, but you might be able to save a few hundred dollars by shopping for a van and sending it to the factory. Be sure to talk with the mobility dealer before buying an unconverted van because some manufacturers have restrictions as to which vans can be modified.

Make sure it fits. One of the most important aspects to buying a conversion handicap van is to make sure it fits. People come in different shapes and sizes. So do wheelchairs, and entrance into the handicap van should be comfortable, meaning the user shouldn’t have to lower their head to get through the entrance. There should also be enough space in the interior of the van for easy maneuverability. Think about how many people will be riding in the handicap conversion van. Ask your dealer for demonstrations on as many vans as possible.

Manual Rear Entry Handicap Vans

Why would someone choose a manual operation rear entry handicap van like a manual Viewpoint Vision conversion?  The biggest reason so many mobility consumers like this type of handicap conversion van is that they can save money over more expensive power operated rear loading or side entry vans for handicap use.  But that isn’t all.  A manual rear loading handicap van offers durability and dependability that can be lacking in a powered mobility conversion.  There aren’t any electrical systems to fail or wear out, and the long term savings in repairs adds to the lower cost.  These handicap vans work very well for individuals using a wheelchair who will have the assistance of an attendant, like a family with an aging parent or a small child.  Any person looking into buying a handicap accessible van or other type of accessible vehicle should carefully consider how they will use it on a day to day basis and consult with a professional before purchasing–especially if it is the first handicap vehicle they will own.

Rear Entry Handicap Vans From Viewpoint

Awhile back, we talked about a company called Viewpoint Mobility that converts rear entry handicap vans for wheelchairs to enter and exit via a handicap ramp located in the back hatch of the minivan. These accessible vehicles offer some unique advantages over traditional side entry handicap minivans. Obviously, they load from the rear of the van via a manual wheelchair ramp or powered handicap ramp. But the major advantages of this type of handicap conversion van is that the rear entry ramp system allows easier parking in traditional parking lots that may not have an abundance of handicap parking spaces. The rear entry ramp for wheelchairs in this mobility van also allows for some unique seating configurations, potentially even allowing for up to 6 passengers plus a wheelchair. If you haven’t seen one of these handicap van conversions, stop by your local mobility dealer and check it out.