Common Guidelines for Choosing the
Right Mobility Equipment
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To assess the physical and psychological capabilities needed to drive, you should ask
yourself a number of
questions, beginning with "Will I be a driver or passenger?
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As a DRIVER: |
- Can I handle the mental and physical stress and strain of driving?
- Will I be able to transfer to a driver seat or will I need to drive from my wheel chair?
- Will I need special modifications to operate the vehicle?
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As a PASSENGER: |
- Will I be able to transfer to a car or van seat or will I need to ride in my wheelchair?
- What are my preferences for seating position, visibility, etc.?
- If I can transfer, is a Companion Seat right for me?
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Acquiring information |
We, at Sacramento Van Conversions, will be happy to assist you in answering
theses questions. Your doctor and/or physical therapist should have input, but the
assistance of an adaptive driving evaluator is recommended. A driving evaluator
can be contacted through a rehabilitation center near you. Give us a call!
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Driving from your wheelchair |
Both full-size and minivans come in many shapes and sizes. If you will be driving
from your wheelchair, additional questions will arise. You need to decide if you
want
a lowered floor, a power pan or a raised top and doors for entry.
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Sacramento Van Conversions will need to know... |
- How tall you sit in your chair, measuring from head to ground.
- The overall length and width of your chair. If possible, use the chair you intend to travel in when you visit Sacramento Van Conversions.
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Also consider these dimensions to assist
SacVans in determining your personal needs: |
- The door height of a standard full size van is about 48 inches, a minivan is about 44
inches. Knowing these heights and your height will help Sac-Vans determine if you will
need a lowered floor or a raised door.
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Don't be afraid to ask a lot of questions. Remember, it is easier to change at this
stage than after the vehicle is built. When you visit Sacramento Van Conversions, there
should be some vehicles available for you to try out. This is an ever-changing industry,
and new products are being introduced every day. Sacramento Van Conversions will be
knowledgeable about today's products. You should certainly ask for references and
examine the work that Sacramento Van Conversions has done in the past. Ask if they
have any customers with a vehicle that is similar to the one you are planning to purchase.
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Ask about service and warranty programs. Be sure to compare the warranty's time
period with the degree of coverage offered. Are all parts covered, or just the major
components? Are they a part of a national dealer network, so you can have warranty
work done anywhere in case of emergency? Have they, their sales representatives, and
their technicians attended a service and sales school?"
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- Sacramento Van Conversion recognizes that this is a big investment for you and the best
way to make an informed decision is to be an educated customer. Read about these
products and, if possible, attend trade shows in your area.
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Paying for your conversion
A new vehicle, including modifications for your needs, can be an investment of $20,000 to
$50,000. In some cases, you may be eligible for assistance. If you are a veteran, contact the
Veterans Administration (VA). Your state's Department of Vocational Rehabilitation or Division
of Developmental Services may also provide financial assistance. If you have private insurance,
either health or workman's compensation, check your eligibility with your insurance carrier.
Sacramento Van Conversions can assist you with a finance package along
with your vehicle.
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A doctor's prescription is accepted in most states to exempt the purchase of your adaptive
equipment from sales tax. Consult a qualified tax accountant regarding any income tax credits.
Major vehicle manufacturers have rebate programs that help pay for modifications.
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After you have evaluated all of your options, you are ready for the purchase. A van must be
custom-fitted to you, just like your wheelchair. With professional guidance, good evaluation of
your personal needs and research of the adaptive equipment that is available, your van
purchase will be a learning experience which will lead you to an even more independent
and productive lifestyle.
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Adapted Vehicle REBATES!
The following manufacturers offer various rebates
on new vehicle modifications:
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Chrysler Corporation
Chrysler Automobility Program
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Ford Motor Corporation
Ford Mobility Motoring Program |
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General Motors Corporation
GM Mobility Assistance Center |
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