Finding a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle
By Michele Blandino
Buying a new car is a task that few people like to take on. Between researching various models, visiting showrooms and car lots and haggling over price with the sales person, the entire process can drag on for months.
Now, imagine you need to purchase a vehicle that is wheelchair accessible. Suddenly, not only is there much more for you to learn, your pool of available vehicles shrinks and you have much less negotiating power.
Needless to say, buying a wheelchair accessible vehicle is much more difficult than buying a standard vehicle. Here are some things to consider:
Identify Your Requirements
One of the first things you should do when beginning the research process is to identify your requirements for the vehicle. Not all vehicles are equipped in the same way; for instance, some have ramps, others have electric lifts. While this may seem like a minor difference, for the person who needs to push a wheelchair containing a 200 pound person up and down the ramp several times a day, it's a big deal.
Other things to consider are the dimensions of the user's wheelchair or scooter, the need for passenger space, and head and foot room requirements. If the user will be driving the vehicle, you will also need to identify any specialty controls that may be required. And, if the vehicle will be used to transport a small child, there may be special restraint requirements.
Consulting the Specialists
Once you have a better idea of your requirements, you can begin your search. Some people will turn to specialists to assist them in their efforts. Whether or not you will benefit from the assistance of a specialist depends on a few things.
First, if the vehicle will be driven by a handicapped person, you should seek the advice of a specialist who can evaluate the user's abilities. The equipment that the vehicle will require will vary depending on the user's physical limitations and it is important to understand these requirements to ensure the safety of the vehicle's passengers. Similarly, if your passenger has special restraint requirements, you will want to consult with a specialist before beginning your search.
Needless to say, operating a vehicle equipped with hand controls is going to be different than operating a standard vehicle. Fortunately, specialists can also either provide or arrange for driver education training.
Can You Afford It?
A new van that is fully equipped to your specifications can cost well in excess of $50,000. Pre-owned vehicles aren't much cheaper; a vehicle in good condition can go for $30,000 or more. Fortunately, you may qualify for assistance.
One of your first calls should be to your local department of Human Services. Under certain circumstances, financial assistance is available to disabled veterans, parents of a handicapped child and government employees. Agencies such as the Muscular Dystrophy Association, and National Multiple Sclerosis Society may also be able to help you locate a reasonably priced vehicle.
