If you are looking for a wheelchair-accessible vehicle, you should know a few things before purchasing. Some of the things you should know include what types of vehicles can be used, the features, and the reimbursement options.
Rear entry
There are two main types of wheelchair accessible vehicles – side entry and rear entry. Each has advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right one is based on your individual needs. Several vehicle manufacturers have worked hard to create mobility-friendly vehicles. Aside from making transportation more accessible, these vans can also help people get around. They are available in a wide variety of designs and styles, so you should be able to find a model that suits your needs. Rear-entry wheelchair-accessible vehicles are great for parking in confined areas. They also allow for more ground clearance than side entry vehicles, allowing you to drive over bumps more comfortably. These vehicles are less expensive than side-entry vehicles, so they’re a good choice for people on a budget. Side entry vehicles are perfect for curbside or parallel parking. However, they’re harder to maneuver in tight spaces. You’ll also need to be able to access the driver’s seat.
Side entry
Side-entry wheelchair-accessible vehicles are designed to allow a wheelchair user to enter and exit the car without assistance. These vehicles have a removable front seat and can accommodate another person in a wheelchair. Rear-entry wheelchair-accessible vehicles are less popular than side entry. They offer more ground clearance, are more affordable, and don’t require a ramp. However, they also need more options for seating. Side entry wheelchair-accessible vans have a leading wheelchair-accessible door on the side of the vehicle. In some models, the driver’s seat can be removed. This allows the wheelchair user to access the car’s center and the driver’s seat. The benefits of a side entry wheelchair-accessible vehicle include more excellent headroom, a foldout ramp, and more floor plan options. Some of these models even have room for the entire trunk to be utilized as storage space. Although side-entry wheelchair-accessible vehicles can be more expensive, they offer more convenience for the user. Most models feature a lift. Hand controls are a great option as well.
In-floor wheelchair ramps
In-floor wheelchair ramps for wheelchair-accessible vehicles offer an added layer of safety and ease of use. Aside from helping people get out of their wheelchairs safely, they also provide extra space inside the vehicle. These ramps are usually installed under the floor of a minivan or accessible van. There are many different types of wheelchair ramps to choose from. Each one has its pros and cons. However, there are two basic types: manual and foldout. Manual wheelchair ramps are the most affordable and require little maintenance. Some have built-in handrails for added convenience. This type of ramp is best for people with upper body strength. It’s easy to install and takes less effort to transport than a more complex system. On the other hand, Foldout ramps are designed to be stored on the floor of the car. They are usually simple fold-in-half devices. Unlike manual ramps, they do not require the help of a caretaker to deploy. While they do not require much room, some foldout models require more space than others. Choosing between the foldout and the in-floor ramp is a matter of preference. While a foldout is the most compact option, it provides less flexibility.
Tie-down points
Retractable tie-downs are easy to use. Once secured, they automatically retract into the device that holds them. This makes them convenient and a great alternative to a manual four-point system. Manual tie-downs are ideal for wheelchair users who require assistance securing their wheelchairs. They feature two straps that are placed in the front. The wheelchair user then places their foot on a release lever. Four-point tie-downs are the most reliable type of tie-down for most wheelchairs. They are usually attached to the floor of a vehicle by an aluminum L-track. These L-tracks feature a grooved channel and machined holes every two inches. When the straps are secured, they are tightened using a ratchet mechanism. There are also electric/automatic docking systems. These devices hook onto metal pins on the wheelchair frame. After a push, the hook locks the wheelchair in place.
Reimbursement
A wheelchair-accessible van can be expensive, but some grants and programs can make it easier to afford one. Some states offer payment assistance, while others provide grants and tax credits. Buying a new wheelchair-accessible vehicle is not always covered by health insurance. But, if you have Medicare, you might be able to get reimbursement for your purchase. In addition, some Medicaid programs and Medicare Advantage plans can cover modifications to your existing vehicle. Medicare also covers a variety of other medical equipment, including wheelchair lifts. However, it does not cover scooters. You will need to contact your health insurer to get the most coverage. Medicare is a valuable program but will not cover every health expense. It also needs to be clarified. If you need help, you may consider a Medicare Advantage plan that can be customized to fit your specific needs. In addition to the government-run programs, you may be able to find financial assistance from churches, insurance companies, or other organizations.