Wheel Chair Van
November 12, 2007
Wheel Chair Van
Trying to find a wheel chair van can be a challenge for most families and there are a lot of things to consider when making your selection. There are a wide variety of styles of both vehicles and equipment used to lift and transport the wheelchair and the choice can be as individual as the people themselves.
One of the first considerations when looking to find a wheel chair van is the size of the vehicle. There are a few choices and it usually comes down to either a full sized van or a minivan for most people. The advantage of the full sized van is that it is larger and allows you to transport the wheelchair and other people as passengers. Most minivans will work fine as well, but can really only transport a driver, passenger and the wheelchair. This is am important consideration when trying to find a wheel chair van, especially if you have a large family.
Another thing to think about when trying to find a wheel chair van is the question of new or used. There is a large market for used equipment and vehicles and this may be an attractive option and will save you some money. If you do decide to try and find a wheel chair van that is used, be sure to have it inspected before you purchase it.
An important consideration when trying to find a wheel chair van is the type of lift you need. There is a wide variety of lifts available and not all styles work for all people. Some of these lifts raise the wheelchair straight up while others swing into the van. You need to consider which style works best for you, and make sure you only consider vehicles with this type of lift. Changing the lift after purchase is an expensive option, so be sure to check the lift before purchasing and make sure it is comfortable.
Once you have sorted out the style of van you want, and the type of lift, you are ready to start your search to find a wheel chair van. There are a lot of free used vehicle listings in your local paper and these type of specialty vehicles usually have their own section in the used vehicle section. Another place to consider is the local MS Society Chapter Since this is a specialized vehicle you might have more luck with organizations that support wheelchair users. These organizations have listings for all sorts of used equipment and will be happy to assist you. The web is another great place to try and find a wheel chair van. A simple search may turn up hundreds of listings in your local area with pictures and descriptions to help you narrow your search. Another option is to purchase a new vehicle and have it modified. This is a more expensive option, but allows you to tailor the vehicle to your exact specifications. You can pick the style, color and size of the van, and install the perfect lift. The key is to take your time and consider all of the options when trying to find a wheel chair van.
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