Requirements For Handicap Vans
If you suffer from injury or disability, there is absolutely no reason that you shouldn’t be able to get out and about every day if you wish. There are so many products available to those that have trouble with mobility so you can find exactly what you need and want to take care of your own errands or go on that road trip you’ve been dreaming of. It’s time to start thinking about Wheelchair vans and the possibilities that are available to you!
The Americans with Disabilities Act has done a lot to ensure that wheelchair vans are safer and more accessible for people with disabilities than ever before. When you look for the right handicap van for you, make sure that you keep these required safety items in mind. You can buy a new or pre-owned wheelchair van that has already been converted for wheelchair accessibility, but you can also have a used or new minivan fitted with mobility equipment that complies with or exceeds the ADA requirements.
Some of the requirements by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is that wheelchair Mobility Vehicles have ramps that are able to support at least 600 pounds, and they must have a guardrail to prevent wheelchairs from rolling off the side of the ramp. The ramp can retract manually or mechanically, but if it is mechanical, the ramp must also have manual controls in case of power failure. Inside wheelchair vans there must be some sort of wheelchair restraints or tie downs to keep the chairs in place while the van is in motion. Wheelchairs do have brakes, but the motion of the vehicle can still jar the chair enough to cause it to move. Tie downs anchor the chair at four points within Handicap Vans so that the chair is secure while the van is in motion. The restraints must be secure but able to disconnect quickly in the event of an emergency situation. The last rule for wheelchair vans by the ADA is that the height of the door with the wheelchair ramp must be 54″ high in order to be ADA accessible. This is not required for a van to be in production, but it is required in order to have ADA certification. Most people do not need this much space for headroom unless the person using the wheelchair is in a special chair with a tall headrest.
Choosing a mobility vehicle is a big decision so make sure you ask the questions above and more before you make an investment. With all the latest advances in the industry, you have many options when it comes to the type of van, ramp conversion, and wheelchair you use. In fact, the options can be overwhelming, especially when you consider how the three must fit well together and fit your unique needs. Make sure your dealer:
• Is an authorized dealer who is licensed and bonded to sell handicap vehicles,
• Has a used car dealer’s license and/or a broker’s license. The used car dealer’s license is restricted and any complaints can be filed with the DMV,
• Has factory-trained and certified technicians,
• Is recommended by friends, family, online reviews, or people at the doctor’s office,
• Has been recognized for excellence in customer service by regional institutions and has good standing with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and the national Mobility Equipment Dealers Association,
• Has arrangement with dealerships or a clear plan for service and repair, so you’re not stuck between your mobility company and the dealership when you need help.
For more info on mobility vehicles like handicap vans visit Better Life Mobility Centers in San Diego and Las Vegas. We will do whatever it takes to make sure your mobility needs on Mobility Lifts and other mobility products are met.