There are several types of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles. These include Side entry, Crane type lift, In-floor ramp configurations, and Safety restraints. To learn more, keep reading. This article will cover the basics of these vehicles. It will also explain the pros and cons of each type. Here, you’ll learn more about the different types of wheelchair accessible vehicles. You’ll also discover how to select a vehicle that meets your specific needs.
Side entry wheelchair accessible vehicles
Side entry wheelchair accessible vehicles are lowered floor conversions that allow a person with a motor disability to sit in the driver’s or passenger’s seat of the vehicle. These vehicles also allow for curbside parking, parallel parking, and no rear ramp clearance. Some wheelchair users prefer to enter and exit the vehicle from the curbside, as it feels more secure. A fold-out ramp on the passenger side allows for this. A fold-out ramp on the other side is optional.
A side entry vehicle has more storage space, making it easier to put away wheelchairs. Additionally, the side entry allows for easier disembarkation, especially in high-traffic areas. However, side entry vehicles may be less expensive than rear entry vehicles. In addition, they are more flexible. Rear entry vehicles are also easier to park because they don’t require a ramp clearance and allow passengers to get in and out more easily.
Crane type lifts
A Crane type lift for a wheelchair accessible vehicle can make parking and storing a wheelchair much easier. They are available with capacities of up to 200 pounds, 90 kilograms, and 350 pounds. Some even come with multiple outer arms so that the lift can accommodate various cab sizes. When buying a new lift, make sure to consider the features that are most important to you. Below are some important factors to consider when choosing a wheelchair lift.
The most common application for a Crane style lift for a wheelchair accessible vehicle is with a power chair or scooter. Fortunately, many vehicles can be fitted with this lift, including pickup trucks and full-sized vans. Although you must have an adapter to use a scooter or power chair, most models can accommodate almost any mobility device. The crane must be paired with a docking device to allow for proper operation, and the lift must be designed to carry the device’s weight without causing damage to the vehicle.
In-floor ramp configurations
There are a few different types of in-floor ramp configurations for wheelchair accessible vehicles. Foldout ramps are the most common configuration, and they fold out and rest under the floor of the vehicle when not in use. They extend over sidewalks and curbs, but can be more expensive than in-floor ramp configurations. Power-operated in-floor ramps rise and lower automatically when needed and take up less space than manual ramps. Some are even equipped with handrails, though these will take up more space than the fold-out ramp.
In-floor ramp configurations are less complicated than fold-out ramps. Fold-out ramps can be a hassle to install, especially when the vehicle is in a hilly area. In-floor ramps can be adjusted to fit any vehicle, and are easier to maintain and clean than fold-out ramps. While these in-floor ramps may take up more space, they can be more convenient for some users than others.
Safety restraints
When choosing a vehicle that is wheelchair accessible, consider what safety restraints are available. Safety restraints for wheelchairs include a lap shoulder belt and tie-down straps. A crash-tested lap shoulder belt is required for wheelchairs. The lap shoulder belt should be anchored in the vehicle’s floor. A wheelchair that has been modified to fit into the vehicle should also have a locking bolt in the bottom.
The four-point seat belt system used in wheelchairs is known as occupant securement. This device combines a lap belt and shoulder belt with L-Track connectors. It is designed specifically for wheelchair riders, who usually have limited arm movement and require longer straps. Seat belts that attach to wheelchairs are required to meet federal standards, and the manufacturers are required to undergo crash tests to ensure their effectiveness.
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Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.