A mobility van is a custom-made vehicle that is specially designed to accommodate the needs of a driver or passengers who are in a wheelchair or who cannot easily get in and out of the cabin. Many of these vans are built to custom specifications so that every need is accounted for and so that the occupants are able to operate independently. Wheelchair van conversions involve modifying a few different areas in order to create the space for accessories and vital components that the driver and passengers need. There are a few things to look for when considering the purchase of a mobility van.
Easy Accessibility
Wheelchair van conversions include the addition of some type of accessibility option that makes getting into and out of the rear cabin easier. The most common option is a motorized ramp. This is a device that lowers a platform to the ground. One version provides a sturdy inclined surface that someone in a wheelchair is able to use to move up into the cabin with only minor assistance. Another version involves a motor that lowers a platform to the ground. This platform is capable of lifting a person and the wheelchair to the same level as the floor of the vehicle. Both options make it possible for anyone to get into the rear cabin regardless of other restrictions.
Driver Options
Customizations to the controls of a vehicle are often included in wheelchair van conversions. Drivers who are unable to use the pedals on the floor are able to use controls that are placed on the steering wheel or dashboard instead. These are commonly called adaptive driving aids. The level of the driver’s seat is adjusted to accommodate the needs of the owner, or it can be removed completely in order to provide space for a wheelchair. Additional suspension options will make it easier to handle the van even with the customized control setup. The same is true for other options, like the transmission, that will make it possible for any driver to maneuver effectively through traffic and across uneven roads.
Safety Features
Safety is one of the primary concerns for the driver and passengers in any mobility van. Some options to look for include fog lights on the front to help with visibility and anti-lock brakes for improved braking. Any area where the driver or a passenger will be sitting in a wheelchair should have seat belts and safety devices that will protect the occupants if the vehicle stops suddenly. Other options that will make driving safer include an accessible global positioning system (GPS) and custom wheels for increased stability.
