Wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs) are specially designed or modified vehicles that allow individuals who use wheelchairs to travel comfortably and safely. These vehicles are equipped with features that accommodate wheelchairs, making it easier for wheelchair users to enter, exit, and travel within the vehicle. Here's an overview of key aspects of WAVs:
Types of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles
1. Minivans and Vans
Lowered Floor Minivans: These have a lowered floor to provide extra headroom and make it easier to roll a wheelchair into the vehicle. They often come with a ramp (manual or automatic) for entry.
Full-Size Vans: Larger than minivans, these vehicles can offer more space and may include lifts instead of ramps for wheelchair entry.
2. SUVs
While less common than minivans and vans, some SUVs are modified to accommodate wheelchairs, usually with ramps or lifts.
3. Cars
Certain cars can be modified with swivel seats or other adaptive equipment to assist with transferring from a wheelchair.
Key Features of WAVs
1. Ramps and Lifts
Ramps: Can be manual or automatic, folding or in-floor. Ramps are typically used for minivans.
Lifts: Used in larger vehicles like full-size vans. These can be either platform lifts or under-vehicle lifts.
2. Lowered Floors
Provides additional headroom and allows for easier maneuverability within the vehicle.
3. Seating Configurations
WAVs offer various seating arrangements to accommodate both the wheelchair user and other passengers. Some allow the wheelchair user to sit in the front passenger or driver's position.
4. Tie-Downs and Restraint Systems
Secure the wheelchair to the vehicle to prevent movement during transit. These systems ensure safety and stability.
5. Automatic Doors and Kneeling Systems
Some WAVs feature automatic sliding doors and a "kneeling" system that lowers the vehicle to reduce the ramp angle, making it easier to enter and exit.
Conversion Process
WAVs can be purchased pre-modified from manufacturers or can be custom converted from a standard vehicle. The conversion process typically involves:
- Lowering the floor.
- Installing ramps or lifts.
- Adding appropriate seating and tie-down systems.
- Adjusting controls and instrumentation if the wheelchair user will be driving.
Manufacturers and Providers
Several companies specialize in producing and converting WAVs, including:
BraunAbility: Known for their extensive range of wheelchair accessible minivans and SUVs.
VMI (Vantage Mobility International): Offers various WAV options, including side-entry and rear-entry models.
MobilityWorks: Provides a wide selection of new and used WAVs and custom conversion services.
Financial Assistance
Purchasing a WAV can be expensive, but there are various sources of financial assistance available:
Government Programs: Such as Medicaid, Veterans Affairs benefits, and state vocational rehabilitation programs.
Nonprofit Organizations: Many organizations provide grants or low-interest loans.
Manufacturer Rebates and Financing: Some manufacturers offer rebates or special financing options to help offset costs.
Considerations When Choosing a WAV
1. Type of Use: Determine if the vehicle will be used primarily for personal use, family transport, or commercial purposes.
2. Frequency of Use: Consider how often the vehicle will be used and the types of trips (short vs. long-distance).
3. Driver or Passenger: Decide if the wheelchair user will be driving or if the vehicle will be operated by another driver.
4. Budget: Factor in the costs of the vehicle, conversion, maintenance, and any necessary adaptive equipment.
To Summarise
Wheelchair accessible vehicles provide essential mobility and independence for individuals who use wheelchairs. By understanding the various types of WAVs, their features, and the conversion process, you can make an informed decision to best meet your mobility needs.
Types of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles
1. Minivans and Vans
Lowered Floor Minivans: These have a lowered floor to provide extra headroom and make it easier to roll a wheelchair into the vehicle. They often come with a ramp (manual or automatic) for entry.
Full-Size Vans: Larger than minivans, these vehicles can offer more space and may include lifts instead of ramps for wheelchair entry.
2. SUVs
While less common than minivans and vans, some SUVs are modified to accommodate wheelchairs, usually with ramps or lifts.
3. Cars
Certain cars can be modified with swivel seats or other adaptive equipment to assist with transferring from a wheelchair.
Key Features of WAVs
1. Ramps and Lifts
Ramps: Can be manual or automatic, folding or in-floor. Ramps are typically used for minivans.
Lifts: Used in larger vehicles like full-size vans. These can be either platform lifts or under-vehicle lifts.
2. Lowered Floors
Provides additional headroom and allows for easier maneuverability within the vehicle.
3. Seating Configurations
WAVs offer various seating arrangements to accommodate both the wheelchair user and other passengers. Some allow the wheelchair user to sit in the front passenger or driver's position.
4. Tie-Downs and Restraint Systems
Secure the wheelchair to the vehicle to prevent movement during transit. These systems ensure safety and stability.
5. Automatic Doors and Kneeling Systems
Some WAVs feature automatic sliding doors and a "kneeling" system that lowers the vehicle to reduce the ramp angle, making it easier to enter and exit.
Conversion Process
WAVs can be purchased pre-modified from manufacturers or can be custom converted from a standard vehicle. The conversion process typically involves:
- Lowering the floor.
- Installing ramps or lifts.
- Adding appropriate seating and tie-down systems.
- Adjusting controls and instrumentation if the wheelchair user will be driving.
Manufacturers and Providers
Several companies specialize in producing and converting WAVs, including:
BraunAbility: Known for their extensive range of wheelchair accessible minivans and SUVs.
VMI (Vantage Mobility International): Offers various WAV options, including side-entry and rear-entry models.
MobilityWorks: Provides a wide selection of new and used WAVs and custom conversion services.
Financial Assistance
Purchasing a WAV can be expensive, but there are various sources of financial assistance available:
Government Programs: Such as Medicaid, Veterans Affairs benefits, and state vocational rehabilitation programs.
Nonprofit Organizations: Many organizations provide grants or low-interest loans.
Manufacturer Rebates and Financing: Some manufacturers offer rebates or special financing options to help offset costs.
Considerations When Choosing a WAV
1. Type of Use: Determine if the vehicle will be used primarily for personal use, family transport, or commercial purposes.
2. Frequency of Use: Consider how often the vehicle will be used and the types of trips (short vs. long-distance).
3. Driver or Passenger: Decide if the wheelchair user will be driving or if the vehicle will be operated by another driver.
4. Budget: Factor in the costs of the vehicle, conversion, maintenance, and any necessary adaptive equipment.
To Summarise
Wheelchair accessible vehicles provide essential mobility and independence for individuals who use wheelchairs. By understanding the various types of WAVs, their features, and the conversion process, you can make an informed decision to best meet your mobility needs.