Wheelchair vans are specially modified passenger vans that are equipped to be more accessible to wheelchair users. Not only do wheelchair accessible vans allow easier entry and exit from the vehicle, they also make it possible for everyone in the van to be seated at the same height and face forward.
Unfortunately, these extra mobility features come at a price that may be too high for some disabled individuals. Used wheelchair vans are a way that people can get an accessible travel solution at a much more affordable price.
Used wheelchair accessible vans should include a permanently installed wheelchair lift or ramp, either at the side doors or in the rear. If a manual wheelchair user is able and willing to transfer from the chair to the driver's seat (or the passenger seating), then the ramp may not be necessary. But for power chairs, some sort of lift or carrier is a must.
Used wheelchair mini vans normally have a lowered floor. The lower floor provides extra head room for the wheelchair user, but at the same time puts the user on eye level with the other passengers. Used hi top wheelchair vans are typically full-sized vans. In addition to extra head room, the raised roof also makes entry into the van easier.
A recent innovation is the mobility conversion of shuttle vans. Shuttle vans, frequently used by hotels and rental car companies, make excellent wheelchair vans because of their extra interior room and extra-strong suspension. Used shuttle wheelchair vans may be a little more difficult to find, but worth the effort.
There are several classified websites that specialize in the listing of used wheelchair accessible vans. Most of them have nationwide listings, so even if you happen to live in Nebraska and only want to consider Nebraska used wheelchair vans, you should be able to find a few for sale. Companies that perform conversions and sell new vans often sell used wheelchair vans.
One of the more popular models recently is the Toyota wheelchair van. Since quite a few of these have been sold to date, you may be able to find used wheelchair vans in the Toyota model line. The Toyota Sienna is often modified by lowering the floor about ten inches and adding an entry ramp.
Getting a used wheelchair accessible van with a side entry ramp may be more convenient for passengers who can walk. The ramp is stored under the van when not in use, so people can enter normally through the right-side doors. If you think that parking space might be a problem, then you should try to find used wheelchair vans with rear-entry conversions. Entering through the rear doors eliminates the need for ramp space on the side. Side-entry lift systems or ramps often require chassis modification. The extra strain this puts on the vehicle might be more of an issue if you're buying a used wheelchair accessible van.
Used wheelchair vans are widely available and are an affordable alternative to a new vehicle. Remember to do some research on the models you find--make sure the vehicle itself is well-rated and has a good repair record. Like purchasing any used vehicle, you'll want to know how the used wheelchair van was driven and if regular maintenance was performed. Be sure to check the operation of any lifts, ramps or other added mechanisms.
Used wheelchair accessible vans provide travel convenience at a more affordable price