|
Common
Guidelines for Choosing the
Right Mobility Equipment
|
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?
|
|
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?
|
|
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?
|
|
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!
|
|
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.
return to top
|
|
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.
|
|
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.
|
- 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.
|
- 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?"
|
- 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.
return to top |
|
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.
|
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.
|
|
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.
return to top |
|
Adapted Vehicle REBATES!
The following manufacturers
offer various rebates
on new vehicle modifications: |
Chrysler Corporation
Chrysler Automobility Program |
 |
Ford Motor Corporation
Ford Mobility Motoring Program |
 |
General Motors Corporation
GM Mobility Assistance Center |
 |
