ABOUT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE VAN CONVERSIONS

MobilityWorks dealers carry a wide variety of new and used wheelchair accessible vans. The first step in selecting the right van is for one of our trained mobility consultants to learn about your specific mobility needs. We then review various accessibility options that can be added to the vehicle. If you are planning to be driver of the vehicle, we suggest you visit with a certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist. To learn more about driving with a disability, go to The Association of Driver Rehabilitation Specialist (ADED) web site at: http://www.driver-ed.org

Common Van Modifications

Most wheelchair vans are equipped with either a ramp or lift. Ramps can be automatically deployed as a fold-down ramp or one that slides out from under the floor. Lifts also come in many different styles and capacities.

Lowered Floor, Raised Roof Wheelchair Vans

One of the most common modifications made to accommodate wheelchair passengers is to physically lower the floor of the van. This provides the extra floor to ceiling clearance which is needed to permit a person to remain seated in their wheelchair while entering or driving the vehicle. A lowered floor also provides for a lower ramp angle. For wheelchair accessible minivans, Braun and Vantage Mobility International (VMI) are two of the most popular lowered floor conversion suppliers. Raised roofs are common with many full sized van conversions, providing additional headroom in a wheelchair lift van.

Hand Controls and Electronic Steering Equipment

Mobility dealerships offer a range of adaptive equipment such as hand controls, pedal extensions, brake pedal guards, steering knobs, and high tech electronic steering options. This type of equipment is generally prescribed to an individual after a thorough motor skills assessment and driving test provided by a driver evaluator - or driver rehabilitation specialist. A driver evaluator can typically be found through your local rehabilitation center or VA office.

Wheelchair Tie- Down and Docking Systems

MobilityWorks dealers work with leading wheelchair restraint manufacturers as a means of securing the wheelchair into position once the person is in the van. When used properly, these restraint systems keep the wheelchair from moving in either passenger or driver seating locations. MobilityWorks can help determine the type of tie-down or docking station needed by looking at the specifications provided for most manual and power-driven wheelchairs. When looking for a wheelchair van, you should have your make and model number avialable.

Scooter Lifts

Scooter lifts make it easier to load and unload a scooter or motor driven wheelchair. It also protects your investment in the scooter by enabling you to store it inside the vehicle while driving. Trained mobility consultants will help you select the correct scooter lift for your type of van, truck or SUV and style of scooter. Scooter hoists with a swing arm or platform lifts are available to meet different types of scooters and motorized wheelchairs. Bruno scooter lifts are one of the most popular lifts on the market.

Custom Seating

There are several different types of custom seating options that allow for extra maneuverability and ease in getting in and out of a vehicle. These are sometimes referred to as turning seats, turny seats, lift-up seats, or turning automotive seating (TAS), trademarked by the Bruno Corporation. Custom seating can be installed on new or used vehicles for the driver or front passenger.