Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Conversion Tips

The process of vehicle conversions is entirely dependent on the type of vehicle you possess. However, there are few factors to be kept in mind are common in all vehicles, regardless of their type.

Head clearance
This is the first and one of the most vital factors to be analyzed while attempting for vehicle conversions. Because wheelchairs typically have higher seat than regular van seats and vans do not have sufficient room, you have to modify it for head clearance. Else, either your head will touch the roof or you may not at all get fit into it. Usually, vehicles lack head clearance and professional vehicle conversion companies have to raise the roof or drop the floor.

Ground Clearance
While creating room for head clearance often the ground clearance is ignored. Some vans like minivans lacking head clearance need more substantial work and extensive vehicle conversions to accommodate driver in a wheelchair. When the van roof even after lifting doesn’t provide enough space, convertors often have to lower down the floor. In other common cases, floor is dropped to modify exhaust and brake system. In all the cases, ground clearance of the vehicle greatly reduces. This significantly impacts the traveling in rough terrain. So, make sure that the modification is not hampering other aspects like this.

Driving controls
As driving is a major function of wheelchair accessible vans, modification from driving front is necessary. Controls for driving have to be modified to make it suitable for disables. Usually, modifications are done in motorized driver seat and hand controls for the pedals. Try to shift functions to your hand as much as you can. Also, include driver safety features.

Wheelchair access point
Vehicles usually have two access points, side door and back door. No matter which access point is chosen, corresponding factory seats have to be detached for the accommodation of the wheelchair. This might cost you to high; the cheapest option to make a vehicle wheelchair accessible is to utilize removable ramps which are designed for specific vehicles. Installing a motorized platform is another option which is capable to raise the wheelchair up and get it into the van.

Tie-down system
Other vehicle conversions to be made are installing a tie-down system. This system is usually bolted to the vehicle floor. It enables wheelchair to sit at a place securely and safely while travelling. Design and placement of the tie-down system varies with the fact that whether wheelchair is accessible from the side or the rear.