Rear and side entry feel different
A rear-entry vehicle commonly uses a lowered floor and ramp through the tailgate. It can need clear space behind when parked. Side entry may suit some parking situations but can require more room beside the vehicle. Consider home parking, supermarket bays, narrow streets and where the passenger will wait while the ramp is deployed.
Check the passenger's view and comfort
Once secured, the wheelchair position may be lower or farther back than an ordinary seat. Check the view through windows, headroom, heating and ability to speak with the driver. A long test drive can reveal noise, movement and discomfort that a stationary viewing will not.
The wheelchair and restraints must work together
The chair needs suitable tie-down points and the passenger needs an occupant restraint arranged for them. The supplier should demonstrate the sequence and ensure carers or family can repeat it. Do not attach restraints to removable footrests, wheels or other points not intended for the purpose.
Will everyone and everything fit?
Count passengers with the wheelchair in place, not from the original vehicle specification. Include walking aids, luggage, shopping and any portable equipment. A larger vehicle gives space but may be harder to park or enter. Test access at both regular destinations and the home.
Buying, leasing and specialist assessment
The Motability Scheme may offer cars, wheelchair-accessible vehicles and adaptations to people receiving a qualifying allowance. Private purchase and used vehicles are alternatives. Driving Mobility centres can assess driving and passenger needs. Compare conversion warranties, vehicle warranty, breakdown arrangements and future resale.
Repeat the trial in realistic parking spaces
A demonstration area may provide far more room than the places normally visited. Try deploying the ramp with a vehicle parked behind or beside you, and check whether the user is exposed to moving traffic. Measure the home drive and garage. Consider height barriers at regular car parks and the vehicle's overall length. If another person operates restraints, they should practise without crawling into an unsafe position. The best vehicle is the one the household can use confidently on an ordinary wet shopping day. Ask how the passenger leaves in an emergency if the main ramp or powered door fails. Regular drivers and carers should know manual releases and where equipment is stored. Keep the lowered floor and ramp clean, because grit can interfere with moving parts and make surfaces slippery. The wheelchair may need its own maintenance before being suitable for occupied transport. If a replacement chair is geted during the vehicle lease, have the restraints and clearances checked again rather than assuming the new chair fits the old arrangement. Ask who can repair the conversion away from the supplying dealer. A standard garage may service the base vehicle but be unable to diagnose a ramp, lowered-floor or restraint-system fault.
Would it help to talk through the journey?
Tell us where the person needs to go, what equipment is used now and where the awkward points occur. We may be able to suggest a sensible next step or the kind of specialist to contact.
Ask Easier Ways