It would be best if you remembered that getting a WAV or wheelchair-accessible vehicle is not an affordable option. Therefore, you must ensure that everything is perfect. 

Specific companies will allow you to easily travel upfront as a passenger, while you should remember a few things when choosing the best WAV. As soon as you enter here, you will understand everything about WAVs.

In the further article, you will understand everything about getting a wheelchair-accessible vehicle, which is an important consideration to remember. Let us start from the beginning. 

Things to Consider When Choosing the Best Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) 

The main idea is to determine your requirements, allowing you to choose the long-term solution. From seating position to vehicle access, safety restraints, and storage options, finding a vehicle that will enhance and support your lifestyle is vital. 

Of course, we cannot say that a single size fits all options and solutions, but you should consider standard features and things that will provide you peace of mind. Therefore, before you continue, it is vital to answer these questions:

• How often do you wish to use WAV, and where will you typically go?
• What are the weight and dimensions of your wheelchair, and whether you wish to transport additional equipment?
• How many passengers will regularly use it?

1. New or Second-Hand

It is vital to remember that getting a second-hand or used WAV is an affordable option that will offer you specific conversion features required for your needs. Still, they may not suit your specific requirements. That is why you should always test drive the vehicle and try to get a few tips before making up your mind. 

At the same time, you should visit a few places you regularly visit, such as a local park, supermarket, or beach. That way, you can determine whether it comes with the characteristics you need in the first place 

2. Safety

As mentioned above, one of the most important considerations is safety, especially since most WAVs are different, and no one is equal. Therefore, you should think about safety and quality, among other things. 

It is vital to ensure that your wheelchair-converted van or car meets safety standards, meaning it underwent extensive driving tests and engineering. The main thing is to ask whether the vehicle comes from a local area or overseas because the ones created outside the UK may not comply with local safety requirements and regulations. 

3. Parking

Although you can find many accessible parking spots, it is vital to remember that they can be more challenging to access than other options. For instance, they may feature columns and poles that can block a side entry of vehicles. At the same time, parked cars can block rear entry as well. 

It is crucial to learn more about a WAV finder, which will help you determine the best course of action. Besides, you will determine whether the features you will get are practical. That is why you should check out the most common parking spots you will use including your carport, garage, street and driveaway to ensure you find the best WAV entry point. 

4. Ramps

Another important consideration is finding a proper ramp to meet your needs and requirements. Everything depends on a specific vehicle you decide to get or a driver who will operate it in the first place.

You should know that wheelchair ramps come in two locations, either on the side or rear of the car. We recommend you determine the best course of action depending on convenience, because each entry point has specific advantages and disadvantages. Remember that wheelchair lifts are available for both large and heavy options, which is vital to remember. 

5. Seat Position

It would be best if you also determined where you wish to sit. Some people enjoy sitting in front of a driver and watching the action. On the other hand, you can sit back and relax on the backside. 

The position depends on your preferences, but most active adults prefer to be upfront. On the other hand, children or seniors are safer and happier in the back. Still, everything depends on an individual. 

Benefits of Having Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle 

1. Freedom and Independence 

Since you are a wheelchair user, waiting for an accessible Uber or cab can be tedious and lengthy. At the same time, some modes of public transport do not have enough space. 

That is why getting a WAV will offer you the freedom to drive anywhere in the comfort of your area. Some people in wheelchairs can drive by themselves, increasing their sense of independence, meaning they do not have to rely on their caregivers or family.

Besides, the duty of caregivers will be more straightforward than before because local trips to pharmacies or supermarkets will require less time and feature higher access than before.

2. Reduce Pain and Stress

Transferring in and out of the vehicle is not explicitly created for a wheelchair, meaning the process can be strenuous and tiresome for caregivers and passengers. On the other hand, you can rest assured because WAVs come with a specific design to ensure maximum security and comfort, among other things. 

You can handle the entire process with wheelchair-accessible vehicles without too much hassle. That prevents repetitive and unnecessary issues that may happen. 

3. Save Energy and Time

Although you may master transferring yourself in and out of a car by unpacking and folding the wheelchair, you should know that it requires plenty of energy. 

With WAVs, you can rest assured because they feature lifts and ramps that will make your life more convenient. At the same time, you will save energy and time to spend on more important things. 

Final Word

As you can see from everything mentioned above, WAVs have high safety standards that will protect people in wheelchairs. At the same time, they can ensure you move in and out of the car without too much hassle. 

Besides, the features you will get inside will reduce the chances of injury for both caregiver and passenger. It is a user-friendly alternative to restraint systems.