If you’re shopping for a wheelchair-accessible vehicle for your family or business, you have probably noticed the myriad of options on the market. There are plenty to choose from, but here are the top 5 features passengers want in a wheelchair accessible vehicle:
Excellent Safety Standards
Maintaining high safety standards is the most important feature passengers want in a wheelchair accessible vehicle. They not only want safe drivers, but safe vehicles too. So, it’s important to take note of how seriously a company takes the safety of their vehicles. This is shown by the regulations and standards that they adhere to, as well as any crash tests that have been performed on the vehicle. For example, FR Conversions subjects each vehicle to higher crash testing standards than regulations require to ensure maximum safety for all passengers.
Wide ADA-Compliant Wheelchair Ramp or Lift
Wheelchair riders want a safe and reliable way to enter and exit a mobility van. Without a wheelchair ramp or lift passengers need assistance getting in and out of the van and stowing their wheelchair. And the wider the ramp or lift, the better. While Americans for Disabilities Act (ADA) requires a minimum 36” width for wheelchair ramps, California and Massachusetts now require a 48” width for ADA compliance.
Secure Tie-Downs
Wheelchair passengers also want to feel safe while riding in a mobility van. Conversion vans equipped with secure tie-downs, like the Q-straint retractable system that locks the wheelchair in place, makes it quick and easy to ensure the wheelchair passenger enjoys the ride safely and in comfort.
Ample Headroom
Ample headroom is a feature that both ambulatory and non-ambulatory passengers want in a van. Vans with a higher roof make it safer for passengers and those in wheelchairs to enter the vehicle without accidentally bumping their head. It also makes it easier to stow and retrieve items in the van. The additional headroom also allows for better air circulation and a more comfortable riding experience for everyone.
Overhead Lighting
Overhead lighting is another important feature that passengers want. It helps passengers find their seats, increases safety when loading and unloading passengers, and makes it easier to access wheelchair tie-downs. LED lighting is preferred as it doesn’t increase the interior temperature of the van. Also, LED lights last for up to 10 years or more requiring less maintenance for paratransit or passenger transportation operators.
Let These Features Guide You
Use these features as a guideline while you’re looking for mobility van conversions. Consider mobility vans that feature a wide ADA-compliant wheelchair ramp or lift, secure tie-downs, ample headroom, overhead lighting, and excellent safety standards.
