Mobility Products for Handicapped Travel

Finding the right solution to your mobility needs can be confusing, particularly if you are not well acquainted with the options on the market. However, it’s pretty simple when you have the right information. There are two main choices in the category of handicap vans – minivans and full-size vans. Which is right for your particular situation, though?

Full Size Handicap Vans

Full-size wheelchair vans have been around for quite some time, but you’ll find that they’ve evolved quite a bit from the early days. Today, full-size vans offer immense comfort, plenty of room and the ability to travel pretty much anywhere you want in luxury. Of course, most full-size vans are too tall to benefit from a wheelchair ramp, so they use wheelchair lifts instead. In addition, if you don’t want to deal with the sheer size of these vehicles, they might not be the right choice. Thankfully, there are other options.

Minivans

Minivans offer a smaller footprint than full-size handicap vans, but they don’t stint on mobility equipment. You’ll find that they still offer plenty of interior space for your needs and can offer some pretty innovative seating configurations as well. In addition, minivans can be equipped with vehicle lowering systems and ramps that make getting in and out of the van a process that takes only seconds, rather than minutes. Minivans also feature the full range of mobility equipment found in full-size vans. The only real difference is the size of the vehicle and some of the “extras” that are available from the manufacturer.

Making Your Decision

When choosing between the different styles of handicap accessible vans on the market, you need to consider the amount of space you need and how comfortable you are with a larger wheelchair van. You should also consider price, as full-size vans are often more expensive than minivans.

If you are in the market for a wheelchair van, you might feel that new options are simply out of your financial reach. There is good news – used handicap vans are widely available. However, that does not mean that all used vehicles are ideal options for your needs. You need to consider several different factors when buying a used wheelchair van, and here are some of the most important considerations.

Year, Make, Model and Mileage

Chances are good that you have preferences when it comes to the make and model of the mobility van that you purchase. You’ll find options available from some of today’s most respected automakers, like Honda and Toyota. There are domestic solutions available, too, such as Chrysler and Dodge models. In addition to considering the make and model, though, you need to consider the mileage on the engine. It’s always advisable to buy a vehicle with lower mileage, as this provides a longer lifespan and more “bang” for your buck.

Available Mobility Equipment

You should also make sure that any used wheelchair van you are considering has the mobility equipment that you need. You can always add mobility equipment to the van afterward if you like, but this will increase the price of the van, which is something that you will definitely need to consider.

Is Financing Available?

Even a used wheelchair van represents a significant investment. You’ll need to make sure that the dealer you’re working with offers specialized loans for individuals with physical disabilities.

If you have physical disabilities that confine you to a wheelchair, you might feel that you have few options in terms of mobility and the ability to get out of the house. However, a wheelchair accessible van can give you back your freedom and improve your quality of life. Of course, you’ll need to know what to look for in order to make the right purchase decision for your needs. Here’s a quick guide to buying a modern wheelchair van.

Seating Configuration

One of the more important considerations you will need to make when buying a wheelchair accessible van is the seating configuration, or rather, the range of configurations possible with a particular model. Some vans only offer one or two configuration options, while others can be incredibly flexible. Choose a handicap van that provides you with the most flexibility possible when it comes to seating arrangements, as this will help ensure that you find a van that fits your lifestyle.

Lift or Ramp?

You will also need to determine if you prefer a handicap van that uses a wheelchair lift or one that features a wheelchair ramp. Lifts can be good solutions, but ramps are a bit more convenient, particularly when installed on a minivan. You will find both manual ramps and automatic powered ramps that slide out from under the side sliding door.

Safety on the Road

Finally, you’ll need to make sure that any wheelchair accessible van you purchase also has safety solutions so that you can ride in the van while seated in your wheelchair. Tie-down systems are available, as are locking systems. Both offer excellent performance, but you might find that you have a personal preference after looking at both options and how they work.

What types of wheelchair van technology is important to you?  You will notice as you begin shopping for a mobility vehicle that there are a large number of versions that you can buy.  Just consider all of the “conversions”, which transform your regular van into a mobility vehicle.  The goal of these conversions is to make the vehicle accessible—ideally without any strain or great effort.

Practically any vehicle could be entered and exited by a disabled person, but usually after great strain.  However, the goal with a wheelchair conversion is to make the experience effortless, perhaps even as simple as pushing a button.  What are the technologies you can pick from?

One of the most popular technologies in the wheelchair van is that of the ramp system, which merely comes out (either manually or by automatic function), and allows the disabled person to enter and exit with a wheelchair.  (Issues important in this case are driver and passenger space, and flexible seating.)

However, there are also designs that allow a motorist to lift the entire wheelchair (or scooter) and put it into the van automatically.  Some of these designs are obviously made for specific family instances; for example, a handicap vehicle in which a husband drives a disabled wife might be very different from a wheelchair van driven exclusively by a disabled person.

The best thing to do is to get together with a dealer representative and then test drive a vehicle to get a first hand lesson on how these lifts and ramps work.  Here at IMED Mobility we are eager to give you a test drive and match you up with the new age mobility van you’ve been dreaming about!  Contact us to make an appointment today.  We have locations in Minnesota and South Dakota and are waiting for your call.

The world of mobility has grown by leaps and bounds in recent years. New innovations in mobility equipment, new features for individuals with physical disabilities and new designs for handicap vans have created far more options than ever before. In fact, there’s so much available that it can be confusing for those who are just getting acquainted with the market. What’s available?

Full Size and Minivans

A range of different handicap accessible vans can be found on the market today, including both full-size and minivans. Both of these options offer increased mobility, comfort and safety on the road, but they’re not the same, and do not necessarily appeal to the same people. Full-size vans are excellent solutions for those who want the most space possible and want luxury upgrades as well. Minivans are better choices for those who need a convenient way to get around in safety and comfort, and who do not want to deal with the larger footprint of a full-size van.

Seating Solutions

Handicap vans also offer a range of different seating solutions for individuals confined to a wheelchair. For instance, you might choose to ride your wheelchair in your van, and you can do so safely with a tie-down or wheelchair locking system. However, if you prefer to sit in a seat, you’ll find transfer seats available that make getting in and out of your wheelchair a very simple process. Transfer seats are also good options for those who are on longer trips, as they provide better support and comfort.

Entering and Exiting

If you haven’t considered handicap accessible vans in some time, you might think that the only way to get in and out of these vehicles is by using a wheelchair lift. However, while lifts are still important options in the industry, wheelchair ramps (both manual and powered) are available and are often a more convenient solution.

You may have heard of the proverbial wheelchair van, but you haven’t experienced the latest 2011 and 2012 model year mobility vans offered by the top manufacturers in the world!  These vehicles are powerful, high-quality and tons of fun to drive.  IMED Mobility has them all, and is ready to put you in the mobility van of the new era.

Forget the days of clunky old vans with a wheelchair mount on the back.  Modern handicap vans today feature powerful engines, front wheel drive, and new vehicle features like, climate control, power heated seats, DVD players and even voice recognition navigation systems!  The best wheelchair accessible van models also have lowered floors, power ramps and power doors for both passenger and driver sides.

Here at IMED Mobility, we believe the best handicap vans on the market are the ones that work with brand name producers VMI and Braun – makers of the best, most effective and safest conversions on the industry.  We offer not only full conversions for sale but can also oversee the installation of a new ramp system on your existing vehicle or a new vehicle.

The minivan of today offers luxury, comfort as well as excellent safety and convenience.  They don’t just provide storage space for a wheelchair—they allow you to easily get in and out of the vehicle without straining.  These handicap accessible vehicles can also be adapted with hand controls so that you can operate driver’s pedals while holding onto the wheel.

If you’re ready to take charge of your life and embrace a new independent lifestyle, then think about a mobility van from IMED Mobility.  We have locations in Minnesota and in South Dakota.  We can customize a reliable vehicle with the best and newest conversions.  Let us show you what today’s minivan looks and drives like!

If you are looking to buy your first wheelchair accessible van, then you may feel a bit overwhelmed when looking into handicap vans for sale.  Yes, there is a huge selection available, as well as many “conversions” to consider.  Price is a major option, as well as design, and of course, quality.  A mobility vehicle is not the product to skimp on, since it can literally change your life!

So, what should you be looking for in a mobility van?  First, decide on whether you want a full-size van or a minivan.  Minivans tend to be smaller but more stylish, whereas full-size vans are larger and have more space.

Modern handicap vans are simply made as vans first and then converted into a handicap vehicle.  Some of the most trusted names in the auto industry are Honda, Toyota and Chrysler.  The more trusted names in installation are usually Bruno, Braun, Ricon and VMI.  If you are working with a new vehicle, these brands are the best you can do in terms of quality.

If you are shopping for a used handicap vehicle, then make sure to test drive the vehicle and get an inspection.  Some of the best dealers out there, including IMED Mobility, will help customers inspect the vehicle and may even offer extras like repair services and warranties.

Price is the final issue to consider with handicap vans, but don’t conclude that your only option is to save up $50,000.  Instead, think about realistic options like financing, buying used vehicles, trading in a vehicle, or renting vehicles.  We are confident at IMED Mobility that we can help you get on the road and into your element!

Most likely, the one thing that stands between people and the mobility vehicle they need is cost. Of course, a wheelchair accessible van can be quite an investment. It can be more expensive than a regular vehicle. However, the mobility and independence that comes along with owning such a vehicle is worth every penny. Have you been wishing that you could afford a wheelchair accessible van? You just need to know how to make the right decisions so that your vehicle can be affordable to you. When you start shopping at IMED Mobility, consider the following so that you can make the vehicle affordable on your budget.

Consider looking at specials and promotions. Often, there are specials and sales that will make a handicap van much more affordable to you. All you need to do is look for these promotions or ask your customer service representative.

Finally, think about purchasing a used wheelchair accessible van. These vehicles will be much more cost effective. Since they have been thoroughly inspected by trained technicians, you can feel completely comfortable and safe choosing to purchase one of them as well.

There are ways that you can make a mobility van more affordable. Whether you choose to purchase a new or used handicap accessible vehicle, you will find that the right van with the right options without too much strain on your budget.

Lee Brown of Jasper, Minnesota received a much appreciated benefit from the VA enabling him to purchase a handicap van from IMED Mobility. Lee and his wife Joy have 4 children, 6 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. During his 20 year service to the military, Lee visited all 50 states and 26 countries. Thank you for your service to our country, Lee.

Happy Veterans Day and Happy Thanksgiving!

Once you make the decision to shop for handicap vans from IMED Mobility, you will want to start thinking of ways to save money. In today’s economy, it seems like everything costs so much money, and you may not have a great deal of room in your budget. However, if you shop carefully and you follow these money saving tips, then you can afford the wheelchair van that you want and need for your mobility and independence.

Consider used handicap vans. These models are much more affordable and they can fit in your budget much better. These used vehicles will be inspected for dependability and they are fitted with the right safety features. You can even finance a used vehicle, making it even more affordable.

Look for specials. When you visit the IMED Mobility website, you will find a whole section of sales and specials. You may find just the right wheelchair van for a deeply discounted price. If you do not see any sales or specials, do not hesitate to call your customer service representative and ask if there are any specials available. This can be a great way to save money on handicap vans.

Finally, make sure you explore your financing options. As mentioned, you can get new or used handicap accessible vans financed so that you can obtain affordable monthly payments. When you are considering what monthly payment you can afford, do not forget to factor in vehicle insurance since you will have to pay for that as well.

How can you save money on wheelchair vans? All you need to do is follow the tips above. You can choose a vehicle that is affordable and that still offers all of the mobility and independence that you need. There are many ways to get an affordable vehicle. Be sure to consider all of them.