If you are looking into wheelchair vans and used handicap vans, with the intent to actually purchase one, there are a few things that you should consider before closing the deal. Buying wheelchair vans for personal use can be an amazing thing if you are a person who is burdened by a handicap and need the freedom and mobility necessary to get around or if you are a family, friend or loved one of a person who is handicapped. The handicap van that you acquire should fit your lifestyle, budget and needs.

 

The first thing that you should look into when searching for wheelchair vans is the amount of space they have to offer. The doors should be wide enough to provide comfortable wheelchair access or allow a person using a walking aide to effortlessly get into the van. Moreover, the seats should adjust easily and allow for you to sit as comfortably as possible.

 

One very important aspect that you should keep in mind when looking into used handicap vans is whether the handicap van, you want to purchase, has controls that are easy to reach for a person with handicap. The handbrake, accelerator, and other controls needed to operate the car, should be appropriate for your ability. This is also valid for any climate control and safety controls such as the flashers, seat belts, lights and high beams.

 

Many wheelchair vans are customized to meet the needs of the driver or the passengers who are handicap. If possible, you should look for used handicap vans that have been customized for the same needs that you have. A handicap van that is designed for an individual with a missing limb is not the same as a handicap van which was customized for a person who is wheelchair bound. If you are bound in a wheelchair or need assistance getting in and out of the vehicle the wheelchair van should be equipped with a ramp or lift that allows for easy entry and exit. The ramp or lift should be motorized and able to operate in all weather conditions. This requirement almost seems intuitive however a handicap van that lacks this basic equipment can prove to be useless for you and your needs.

 

Pay close attention to the used handicap vans you are interested in because they should meet all of the applicable standards set for by the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) for handicap access. Ramps, bars and other safety devices and aides should be properly installed and working every time the person enters or leaves the van. ADA sets the standard for handicap accessibility and finding information can be done easily online.

 

You need to make sure that you find the perfect wheelchair van that has all the bells and whistles, that you need for a handicap driver or passenger, at a cost that you can afford. It would not make sense to buy a handicap van that is more than you can afford, become dependent of it and lose it due to an inability to keep up with the payments.

If you are looking into wheelchair vans, first you need to make sure you look into something that fits your needs and your budget. If you can't afford a brand new van, then used handicap vans might just be the answer to all your questions!