With the aid of wheelchair-accessible vehicles, people who use wheelchairs can travel around cities easily. The drivers are not left out as it makes their jobs easier too. There are various vehicle models with the needed modifications for the convenience and safety of wheelchair users. These vehicles are also tax deductible in a way.
Types of Vehicles for Wheelchair Users
There are 2 types of vehicles for this purpose: rear entry and side entry. Rear entry models are good for families with one wheelchair user while side-entry models are ideal for wheelchair users who prefer driving themselves.
Side Entry Models
Most privately-owned wheelchair-accessible vehicles are the side-entry models. They make it easy for passengers to enter or alight. Typically, the seats are removable and the vehicle may come with a ramp to aid entry and exit. Additionally, the car has seats fixed on the door that you can set up after closing the door.
The model is great for:
# People who like to modify their vehicle.
# Passengers or drivers who use wheelchairs.
# Parallel parking.
Rear Entry Models
They feature lower areas around the rear which accommodate a foldable ramp and the wheelchair. This setup does not require much modification. The seats in the middle can remain the same way so other passengers can sit. Rear entry models are cheaper than side-entry models.
Although minimal modification is required here, it is more suitable for wheelchair users who do not want to drive. Also, parallel parking may be a challenge because it requires a lot of space at the back of the vehicles.
The model is great for:
# People who want minimal modification.
# Wheelchair passengers.
# Perpendicular parking.
Tips for Buying Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles
When deciding which wheelchair-accessible vehicle to buy, you need to choose one that meets your unique needs. Whether you want to stick to your usual vehicle brand or you want to try out something new, every option has benefits as well as drawbacks. Here are some tips to ensure the buying process is easier.
Identify Your Mobility Needs
The car you want to purchase is an investment that will stay with you for a long time, so you need to critically assess your future and present needs. The first thing to check is functionality and narrowing down your options will help make the task easier. You can ask yourself these questions:
# Will you travel with people in the car and how many will they be?
# Will you drive or do you want a driver/caregiver?
# Is your wheelchair a large one that requires more room for weight or height?
# Do you want a side-entry or rear-entry model?
# Do you want a foldable ramp or a sliding ramp?
# Can you get used wheelchair-accessible vehicles if new ones are too expensive?
Answering these questions will give you an idea of the features you need. You can then make a list of vehicles and dealers. Some online stores have tools that you can use to select your preferences so they can make recommendations.
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Research Your Preferred Features
After making a list of features you want, you need to find out how they fit your daily activities. Exploring the types of conversions and their lift options is a good place to begin. Take time to look at the features of different brands, listing them according to your priority.
You can also get reviews from friends, influencers, and bloggers. They will help you to narrow down the available options early enough. If the driver is the caregiver or the wheelchair user, cars with in-floor ramps are better. Therefore, you can explore brands like Chrysler Pacifica and Toyota Sienna that offer that option.
Research the Car Maker
It is now time to research the company that produces your preferred features. You can start by learning how the vehicle is built. This will make you feel a part of the production process. You can visit the website of the manufacturer, learn the advantages of their mobility products, and read car reviews.
This stage helps you to prioritize the vehicle you want to purchase since you will examine each model closely. Even if Toyota Sienna is your favorite brand, it will be good to discover that Chrysler Pacifica is worth exploring.
Create a Budget
Before visiting a dealer, you need to assess the price ranges of the vehicles you prefer. You can check out the vehicle inventory of different dealers online to get this information. Even if you have decided on which model and make you want to buy, the inventory available will give you an idea of how much different manufacturing years cost. For instance, a 2012 model will be very much different from a 2017 model.
You should also look at your financing options. Some dealers offer rebates, promotions, loans, and insurance. Veterans, for instance, who were injured while on duty, might be eligible for certain benefits.
Go with Your Instincts
Going to the dealer to check out the car in person is quite an experience. For some people, that’s where the buying journey starts and ends. If you did your homework properly, you will save more money and time when you finally visit the dealer. You will know the type of wheelchair-accessible vehicle you want.
You can also get a demo or test drive the car yourself or with your driver. The demo gives you insight into weight capacity, seating, and different logistics. Your friends, loved ones, and caregivers can tag along for a ride. They can contribute to your decision-making.
Intuition is a reliable tool when you are at a dealer’s place. As you relax in the car, trust whatever you feel in your heart. Take your time to compare all the vehicles on your list, then settle for the one that strikes you the most.
Conclusion
Buying a wheelchair-accessible vehicle is an exciting journey. It opens you up to an amazing world of endless mobility options. The tips we shared will help you make the buying process enjoyable and productive.
