What You Need to Consider When Buying Used Handicap Vans
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Used handicap vans allow persons with disabilities to regain some of the mobility they've lost at a cost-effective price. While new wheelchair vans can cost tens of thousands of dollars, used vans can be bought at half the price. You have two options when buying a used van:
To be customized according to your preferences.
Buy one that has been previously customized.
If you are going to buy a second-hand van for conversion, make sure it is no more than three years old, since it may be difficult to find parts for vans older than that. It would also reduce the amount of time you can use the van, since the average lifespan of a wheelchair van is ten years. Plus, a newer van would have state-of-the-art adaptive equipment installed on it.
On the other hand, if you're going to buy already-converted used handicap vans, make sure you buy it from a dealer certified by the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association, to ensure that you get the best quality equipment. Then request a list of options from the dealer so you can find a van that meets your particular needs. And always check if the vehicle has a warranty and/or is a certified used vehicle. Ask to inspect the van and take an qualified mechanic or other knowledgeable person with you. Take the van for a test drive to see if there are any problems with it.
Another consideration when selecting used handicap vans is whether to buy a minivan or full-sized van. The majority of persons with disabilities prefer minivans since it is easier to get in and out of the van by just using ramps rather than having to use mechanical lifts, which can jam . Minivans are also easier to drive and cost less to convert. On the other hand, if the vehicle will also be used as a family car, then a full-sized van can seat more passengers as well as being roomier -- making it easy for aides to move around inside.
The disabled person also has to decide whether they will lower the floor or raise the roof of their used handicap vans. This is a must, since wheelchairs are taller than the standard vehicle seats and it may be uncomfortable for the disabled person while inside the van. While lowering the floor is the most common choice, raising the roof will make it easier for them to enter or leave the vehicle.
If the handicapped person will also be the one driving the van, then the used handicap vans they buy should have the following features:
Remote start that allows the disabled person to turn on the vehicle from the outside so that they can use any mechanical access equipment and avoid being stuck inside a dead vehicle.
Remote control activation supplements remote start by allowing the disabled person to deploy the lift or ramp while still approaching the vehicle or inside a building. This allows them to be able to enter the vehicle at once when they are near it, for safety and comfort purposes. |
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Author Resource:-
Bob Lundin is an expert when it comes to New and used wheelchair vans. To find out everything about New and used handicap vans, visit our website at www.mobilitysales.com.
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By :
Jessie Stone
Submitted
2010-12-13 00:12:12 |
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