One of the many benefits of a hybrid wheelchair van is its ability to accommodate wheelchairs and scooters. These vans are designed for maximum independence and convenience while also providing a smooth ride for a wheelchair user. Disabled people can also use side-entry wheelchair vans. They are designed with a side door that can be opened and closed quickly, giving the wheelchair user greater freedom of movement.
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Side-entry wheelchair vans offer greater independence.
If a person cannot drive due to physical limitations, side-entry wheelchair vans offer greater independence. These vehicles have fold-out ramps, which enable wheelchair users to get in and out of the front or middle seat of the car without transferring into the passenger compartment. Side-entry wheelchair vans also offer more space and convenience for passengers. In addition, these vehicles can accommodate more people, including a second wheelchair user.
Rear-entry wheelchair vans are cheaper than side-entry conversions. They feature a removed rear bench, and a ramp is installed. However, rear-entry modifications have some drawbacks. For example, the driver position is not accessible to people in wheelchairs, so a caregiver must always be in the vehicle. Additionally, when exiting the car, wheelchair users may have to back out, which can pose a challenge to powerchair users. One example would be the Toyota Sienna wheelchair van.
Convenience
A hybrid wheelchair van has some advantages over other types of mobility vehicles. Not only is it more fuel-efficient, but it can also provide better maneuverability and increased comfort for passengers. But it can also be expensive to fill up the gas tank. Thankfully, there are some tremendous hybrid wheelchair vans available.
Unlike other vehicles, hybrid wheelchair vans have front seats that are obstacle-free and removable. The result is an open area up front wide enough for two wheelchairs side-by-side. In addition, VMI has introduced an industry-first seat-switching system, allowing drivers to switch between the passenger and driver seats while maintaining optimal ergonomics and comfort. This feature frees valuable interior space for wheelchair users.
Safety
Fortunately, several standards and guidelines help to ensure the safety of a hybrid wheelchair van. The RESNA and ISO have created these standards. These voluntary standards define design and performance criteria and occupant protection levels. ADA-compliant securement systems. These systems are designed to provide occupants with an acceptable level of transportation safety. They also offer more personal independence than an unrestrained seated passenger. As with other forms of securement, a hybrid wheelchair van should have adequate interior lighting that allows wheelchair occupants to see where they are going. ADA-compliant interior lighting provides at least one square foot of illumination per source.
Crashworthiness. This standard sets the standards for crashworthiness. To ensure that a hybrid wheelchair van is safe for disabled passengers, its crashworthiness must meet all relevant requirements. You must meet FMVSS 214 and US ANPRM requirements. The wheelchair seatbelt components must be designed to meet FMVSS 213 and 209 requirements. WC19 provides options for testing. You must adequately secure the seatbelts of the hybrid wheelchair van.
Read also: The Benefits of a Pug Wheelchair