Is there enough room for you and your wheelchair? You
don't want to feel cramped. Do the windows give you a
good view of the surroundings without straining? Does
the heating system keep you warm enough in winter? On
hot summer days, can you get adequate ventilation?
That's particularly important if you are travelling
in the back of the vehicle.
Rear access vehicles require a strong, non-slip ramp that is not steep. Users who prefer to travel in the front need a safe, simple form of access that moves them gently and easily from the road to the vehicle. Once the wheelchair is in the vehicle, it needs to be securely restrained so that it does not move during the journey. The chair should also be secured so that it is protected in the unfortunate event of an accident.
Rear access vehicles require a strong, non-slip ramp that is not steep. Users who prefer to travel in the front need a safe, simple form of access that moves them gently and easily from the road to the vehicle. Once the wheelchair is in the vehicle, it needs to be securely restrained so that it does not move during the journey. The chair should also be secured so that it is protected in the unfortunate event of an accident.
Will you be carrying a lot of luggage, as well as a
wheelchair? That determines the type of vehicle you
choose. You may wish to keep the boot or the back of
the vehicle free for luggage by choosing a front-seat
system. How many other people might want to travel in
the vehicle as well as the driver and the wheelchair
passenger. A people carrier might be more appropriate
if you are anticipating larger groups. Conversion is
a specialist job and the aim is to make the vehicle
as safe and comfortable as possible for the
wheelchair user. A reputable manufacturer should
quote you an all-inclusive price for fitting. You can
convert both new and used vehicles for wheelchair
use. You can use your Motability allowance towards
the cost of your next vehicle.
