If you have a mobility impairment, owning an accessible van can make your life a whole lot easier since you will easily move from one place to another. However, buying an accessible van for the first time can get tricky.
The fact that there are plenty of mobility vans for sale makes it a lot more challenging to find one that suits your needs.
If you're looking to buy an accessible van, you must consider a couple of factors to make the best purchase.
What Are Accessible Vans?
According to the Department of Transportation (DOT), approximately 25.5 million Americans have travel-limiting disabilities. Accessible, or handicap vans, are modified to be wheelchair accessible, allowing disabled individuals to travel safely and comfortably. They come fitted with extended floors and light-weight ramps to allow easy entry and exit for wheelchair users.
Tips for Choosing the Right Accessible Van
There are tons of accessible van options available in the market. Picking the right one is important to your comfort and well-being. Here are a couple of tips to help you choose one that best suits your needs:
Explore Your Options
When going out to shop, you should keep your mind open to the different options of accessible vans available in the market. Instead of focusing on the brand, consider for factors such as the seating options and the type of accessibility technology used.
Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all option when it comes to choosing an accessibility van. Therefore, you should make your decision based on what works for you. You might have to try out a few vans before settling for one.
Only Buy From an Accredited Handicap Van Dealer
There are lots of handicap van dealers in the market. While most of them are genuine, there’s still a chance you’d run into some bad actors looking to steal your money. This is especially true for online dealers.
As such, only buy your handicap van from a National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) accredited dealer. This organization has a quality assurance program that issues certificates to dealers that meet rigorous quality and safety standards.
Check the Van's Size
You should choose a van that can accommodate all your passengers. For instance, if you travel alone, then a handicap SUV will do just fine. But if you take frequent trips with your family, a van with more cabin space will be a great option.
Consider Your Wheelchair Size and Weight
Handicap van manufacturers equip their vans with ramps that accommodate different wheelchair weights and sizes. Ask the manufacturer whether they have vans that can support your wheelchair weight and size. If they don't, inquire whether they can modify their existing vans to your specifications.
Choose Between Rear- or Side-Entry
Another important factor that should affect your purchasing decision is the point of entry. Rear-entry vans allow you to enter the van from the back, giving you access to the rear and mid-section. They're super convenient but limit your access to the passenger and driver seats.
A side-entry van, on the other hand, allows access to the vehicle from the back right-hand door. You can get to the passenger or driver's seat with this entry type, but it's impractical for tight parking spaces. You should choose the entry type that's most convenient to your lifestyle and your area's parking availability.
Decide Between a Ramp or a Lift
Do you want a ramp or a lift wheelchair van? The option you choose will depend on your budget and what you like. A ramp requires you to push yourself up the vehicle manually, while a lift requires no physical effort but costs more. If you're not working on a budget, you can consider getting a lift wheelchair van because it's much more convenient.
Inquire About the Van's Warranty
Reputable accessible van dealers usually have a warranty on their vehicles. If a dealer doesn't have a warranty, that's a major red flag. For that reason, you shouldn't buy from them. If you find a dealer with a warranty on their vans, ask about the warranty's validity period and mileage. As a rule of thumb, look for a van dealer that offers a three-year and 36,000-mile warranty at the very least.
Choose an Accessible Van That Suits Your Needs
An accessible van is a huge investment that will serve you for years. Before buying one, do your diligence and ensure you get the best vehicle for your budget. Ask your friends and family if you can't find a reputable dealer online. They'll likely point you in the right direction and save you the hassle. Lastly, don't forget to get proper insurance for your mobility vehicle to protect your investment.
