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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - Handicap Adaptive Vans, Wheelchair Lifts & More

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Your Mobility Resource Dealer knows your needs are specific to your particular situation. Many factors must be considered when deciding which vehicle is best for you. To help you decide, we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions. Thank you for visiting The MobilityResource.com!

Adaptive Van FAQs
Are the ramps difficult to operate? No. Most side-entry minivans are fully automatic. With the push of a button, the power door will open, the van will lower to the ground and the ramp will deploy. Once inside, just push another button to stow the ramp, raise the van and close the door. In no time, youre on your way easily and safely! Handicap vans with manual ramps are very easy for your loved one to operate as well. Ramps are built with springs that take much of the weight away from the operator, making stowing and deploying fast, safe and easy. Rear-entry minivans work much the same way as side-entry vans, either fully automatic or assisted manual conversions. Return to Top Which lowered-floor minivan is best for me? Your needs and goals are specific to you, something your local Mobility Resource Dealer knows. If you are a driver who would like to drive from your wheelchair, the side-entry fold-out ramp may provide the best wheelchair transport solution. The side-entry offers the most flexibility. With removable front seats, the driver can remain in the wheelchair and roll right up into the driver position. Transferring to a factory seat is easy with the addition of a six-way power transfer seat that slides back, turns sideways and raises or lowers to the optimum transfer height. The fold-out ramp allows for an easy exit from the vehicle in case the power ramp fails for any reason. As both a driver and passenger, the side-entry fold-out ramp with removable front seats allows the wheelchair user or others to access either front seat. The wheelchair user can also ride from the middle position of the van while others sit on the rear sofa. A rear-entry van allows the person in the wheelchair to transfer to the front driver or passenger seat with the addition of a transfer seat, but does not allow access to the front seats with the wheelchair. If you use a wheelchair and are only going to be a passenger, either the side- or rear-entry van will work, depending on other circumstances. If you travel alone, the side-entry fold-out ramp may be the best solution as discussed above. However, if others need to access the rear of the vehicle, an in-floor side-entry ramp may be your best bet. The in-floor ramp slides into a compartment below the floor to allow access to the passenger-side sliding-door entry. If an attendant needs to be with the person in the wheelchair, a rear-entry van may allow the wheelchair to roll between the two middle seats of the van, allowing others to sit next to the person in the wheelchair. Return to Top Where can I park my adaptive van? A rear-entry vehicle allows wheelchair or scooter access to the vehicle in narrow garages and standard parking lots without having to use specially designed parking spaces. However, this is not the best solution if access is required in parallel-parking situations or when needing to access a vehicle parked on the street, especially in inclement weather. In those situations, the side-entry van is a better choice. It should be noted that larger scooters or tilt-in-space wheelchairs may not have the maneuvering room to turn in a side-entry van. Therefore, the rear-entry may provide the best solution because it involves straight-line entry and egress. Those who can maneuver inside the vehicle and prefer to enter and exit the vehicle in the forward-facing direction may prefer the side-entry. All these factors and more play an important part in selecting the proper vehicle. The Mobility Resource Dealer in your area will share their knowledge with you and help you choose the most appropriate vehicle for your needs. You can also try out different types of adaptive vehicles so that you can be sure you find the right solution to fit your needs. Return to Top Can I drive from my scooter? No. It is NOT recommended that you ride from the seat of the scooter while in a vehicle. For safe operation, the person in the scooter should always transfer to an automotive seat properly installed in the vehicle. Your local Mobility Resource Dealer can show you the options available to make transferring safe and easy, including the Braun transfer seat. A scooter should always be restrained with an appropriate wheelchair tie-down system to secure the scooter in the vehicle in case of a sudden stop, start or turn. If the driver has physical limitations, The Mobility Resource always recommends an evaluation by a Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist (CDRS) prior to driving. A CDRS can evaluate your physical abilities and prescribe adaptive equipment, if necessary, to allow for a safe driving experience for all. Return to Top Can I drive from my wheelchair? In many cases, yes! Your local Mobility Resource Dealer has a variety of options that allow you to drive from your wheelchair, including electric tie-down systems, hand controls and more. Transfer seats are also available, allowing the individual to transfer out of the wheelchair into an automotive seat. If the individual with the wheelchair will be transferring to a standard automotive seat once inside the vehicle, then a wheelchair tie-down system will be needed to secure the wheelchair in case of sudden stop, start or turn. If the individual in the chair will be remaining in the wheelchair while traveling, then both a wheelchair restraint system and occupant restraint system will be required. Your local Mobility Resource Dealer can assess your particular situation and install the required safety systems in your vehicle.

Wheelchair/Scooter Lift FAQs	Return to Top
Where does a scooter lift mount? A swing-arm scooter and wheelchair lift can be mounted in the trunk of most vehicles. There are models designed for the rear doors of most sport utility vehicles, crossover vehicles, full-size vans and minivans. Other models are designed for mounting on the driver or passenger side of full-size vans or minivans, sport utility vehicles and some crossover vehicles. Others can mount in the trunk of a sedan. Return to Top What about my pickup truck? Is there a model for me? Absolutely! Bruno Independent Living Aids manufactures scooter carriers and wheelchair lifts specially designed for the bed or cab of most full-size or compact pickup trucks. A variety of outer arms is available to accommodate different cab lengths. This way, the scooter or wheelchair can be placed close to the front door, eliminating the need to go to the back of the truck. Your lift can be mounted on either the driver- or passenger-side of the truck. Since there are no structural vehicle modifications required, the scooter lift can easily be reinstalled in your next pickup. It will not detract from the value of your current truck at the time of sale. These lifts are designed to remain out in the elements. However, if you need or use a truck cap, a Bruno Powr Topper can be installed to work with your scooter or wheelchair lift to raise and lower the truck cap as the lift removes or stows your scooter or chair! Return to Top Will a scooter lift fit in my car? Not all scooters or wheelchairs fit into all vehicles. However, there are a number of scooter lift models and mounting kits available from Bruno. Chances are good that your needs can be accommodated. Talk with your local Mobility Resource Dealerbefore making any vehicle purchase to find out what works best for you. Will the scooter lift take up much room? It depends on the lift and the scooter or wheelchair being stowed. Most interior lifts are designed to fold out of the way when not in use to maximize both visibility and interior storage. Trunk lifts are normally mounted to the side of the trunk, maximizing storage space. Some are even designed to quickly disassemble for maximum space. Return to Top Can I use my scooter lift in more than one vehicle? There are some detachable scooter lift models that offer an additional tower base that can be mounted in another vehicle. With three simple steps, the lift can be removed and then relocated to the other vehicle. What happens when I sell my vehicle? There are no structural modifications done to your vehicle when the scooter lift is installed. Therefore, it can be easily removed from your vehicle upon resale. And because there are hundreds of mounting kits available, its possible your current lift can be installed in your new vehicle. As always, talk with your local Mobility Resource Dealer before making any vehicle purchase to find out what works best for you. Can I mount the scooter lift to the hitch on my vehicle? There is a lift available that can be mounted outside the vehicle to a class II or class III hitch (not included). The platform automatically folds when not in use. An optional Swing-Away is available to allow access to the rear of the vehicle. A standard-lighted license plate holder and a third brake light are included for additional safety.

Turning Automotive Seats FAQs	Return to Top
The vehicle seat is too high for me to climb up to. What can I do? With the Bruno Turning Automotive Seating system, the seat not only turns out of the vehicle, but can also lower to a comfortable height, making it easy to sit or get up from the vehicle seat. Once seated, it will lift you into the vehicle. Let the Bruno turning car seat do the work while you just enjoy the ride! With the TAS, I can now easily get into my vehicle, but what about my scooter or wheelchair? The Mobility Resource Dealer in your area has solutions for easily stowing your wheelchair or scooter. Go to Making an Informed Purchase, read about our wheelchair or scooter lifts, or learn about converting a van to accommodate a wheelchair lift. Return to Top Is the Turning Automotive Seat safe? Yes. The Turning Automotive Seat meets or exceeds all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. All Mobility Resource Dealers are factory-trained for sales, installation and service. What if I want to change vehicles? There are no structural modifications made to your vehicle when installing a Turning Automotive Seat. Therefore, it can reinstall in your next vehicle. It will not affect the resale of your current vehicle because the original seat can be reinstalled.

Driving/Steering Controls FAQs	Return to Top
How do I know what type of hand controls I need? A Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist (CDRS) is trained to evaluate your situation and determine the best equipment for your needs. They will be able to write a prescription for the car hand controls required for you to safely operate your motor vehicle. The CDRS will also provide the proper training on the equipment to make sure you are comfortable being on the road again. Your Mobility Resource Dealer can direct you to the CDRS in your area. Can someone else drive my vehicle if I install hand controls? Usually, yes. Most hand controls are designed so that they dont interfere with the regular operation of the vehicle. You or your loved one can alternately drive the vehicle safely and comfortably. Only the most advanced drive-by-wire systems eliminate the ability to operate the vehicle in the standard fashion. Talk with your local Mobility Resource Dealer before making any vehicle purchase to discuss your particular needs as well as those of others who will be driving the vehicle. Return to Top Are there hand controls for my vehicle? Driving controls are available for most vehicles, including cars, minivans and full-size vans, pickup trucks, sport utility vehicles, crossover vehicles and wagons. However, the type you need may not be available for ALL vehicles. Talk with your local Mobility Resource Dealer before making any vehicle purchase to find out what works best for you. I had a stroke. Can hand controls help me? Yes. Many stroke victims have regained their independence with the help of driving controls. Adapting the hand controls for the side of the body unaffected by the stroke is possible. A Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist (CDRS) and your local Mobility Resource Dealer can evaluate you to determine which controls you need in order to drive safely. What if I want to change vehicles? Many hand controls can be transferred from vehicle to vehicle with the correct mounting kit. The only exception is the drive-by-wire systems. Be sure to talk with your local Mobility Resource Dealer before transferring your hand controls.
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Wheel Chair Vans - REFERENCE ARTICLE

Countries all over the world have done a lot to make access to facilities easier for the people with disabilities. Mobility manufacturers have designed safe reliable adaptive equipment for different disabilities as well. A wheelchair van can give you back the independence to get around on your own again. This is where The Mobility Resource can help. Deal with an experienced reputable dealer that will help you own the perfect wheel chair van according to your needs, within your budgets. We are pleased to offer clients in Canada and all over the United States a network of dealerships where you can invest in a reliable wheel chair van that you can drive safely, designed according to the strict federal industry standards regulations. State of the art innovative adaptive equipment allows you to load and unload wheelchairs, scooters, and other prosthetic devices, and the controls for driving come available in automatic and even manual operation. You can buy a http://www.themobilityresource.com, or even a car which has this equipment installed, and make travelling easier.

You can talk to our professionals at a dealership closest to you about any wheel chair van you are interested in. The Mobility Resource invites you to browse our website links, so that you can be fully informed of the wide range of different adaptive equipment modifications there are available in the newest technology. Our technicians at the dealerships will go out of our way to accommodate what you seek in a wheel chair van for your satisfaction. Trade-ins are also welcome, and the vehicle you have your eye on will be customized to suit your requirements, with training to show you how to operate the equipment with ease.

Regain your independence and freedom to travel when you like by purchasing a wheel chair van from The Mobility Resource. With the wide range of makes and models there are, surely you will find something that suits your specific tastes. The Mobility Resource believes in building long term relationships with our customers, and we have availability of servicing, maintenance, and repairs on your wheel chair van whenever you need it. There are also affordable brand new and used vehicles that can be customized to suit your requirements, in side and rear access, with the suitable driving controls. After an evaluation, our expert team will give you practical advice and suggestions for what suits you best. Complete the form to find the dealership closest to you, and enjoy fast friendly services to look forward to owning a fabulous wheel chair van in your price range, and according to your tastes.

Wheelchair Van - REFERENCE ARTICLE

Mobility manufacturers have designed state of the art adaptive features in special vehicles for the disabled, and you can invest in a car or a van to give you back the freedom to travel independently when ever you want, when you own one. Now that you have discovered The Mobility Resource while looking for a reputable licensed dealer of wheelchair van vehicles, rest assured of finding the best possible deals with expert assistance to make the right choices. Our website has been designed for client convenience to help you find the best wheelchair van possible that is affordable to your budget, and outfitted with the right equipment specific to your needs.

Loading and unloading of wheelchairs and scooters or other prosthetic equipment is simple with the new technology of wheelchair lifts, and ramps with special steering controls offering both automatic and manual options are also available. Many vans offer you the combination of both types of adaptive controls, so that a person with full mobility can also drive them. Read some information on the adaptive equipment designed and manufactured by Bruno, one of the leaders in this equipment for decades which we certainly recommend for its reliability. There is also other top selling equipment in driving controls, and wheel chair lifts for a wheelchair van in a variety of brand names. Read the information on the different types of adaptive equipment we install at the link on this website, to make an informed choice.

The Mobility Resource have dealerships located in Canada, and all over the United States, and our expert technical staff can custom the wheelchair van you have chosen to suit your requirements. We install equipment, and make certain that each vehicle that leaves our showrooms meets the strict federal safety standards, plus we also stand behind our cars and vans with our own quality guarantees. Once you are the proud owner of a wheelchair van, you can additionally choose a service and maintenance plan for your peace of mind, and should you need any repairs or upgrades then we will be glad to do them for you. Thanks to dozens of satisfied clients we have helped to get back newfound freedom in a customized wheelchair van, we receive many recommendations, and we know you will certainly do the same.

Complete the needs assessment quiz which will give you, and us guidelines of finding the best solutions in a wheelchair van for your needs. There are also some financing programs for these vehicles which we will assist you with, and you can choose what suits your budget in affordable repayment terms. We have provided this website as an easy starting point to help everyone with a disability choose the perfect vehicle for their requirements, and our expert team is just a phone call way when you need them. Once you have your own wheelchair van, you will never again have to rely on public transport or family and friends when you need to go somewhere, and The Mobility Resource are pleased to make this all possible for you!

Adaptive Equipment - REFERENCE ARTICLE

The Mobility Resource website, www.themobilityresource.com, is a team of mobility experts that have combined their knowledge and expertise to make traveling easier for those who rely on handicapped equipment, such as wheelchairs and walkers. There are times when such individuals or their loved ones find getting around a challenge; however, with the efforts of our network of experts, and our easy to use website, buyers can source the right adaptive equipment for any need. The choice of adaptive equipment includes wheelchair lifts, scooter lifts, accessible vans along with pre-owned, handicapped vans which have been modified and adapted to suit the transporting needs of those with disabilities. In a bid to ensure that our users purchase the correct adaptive equipment which will best suit their needs and which will simplify all transporting issues, it is recommended that all users speak to the mobility experts, and in so doing, our team of experts will be able to assess each individual's situation and come up with a perfectly fitting solution.

The buying of a handicapped van or adaptive equipment can cost thousands of dollars and in order to give our clients the freedom to enjoy ease of transporting and of getting around, we offer financial assistance. With this assistance, buyers of the adaptive equipment or of the handicapped vans will gain the assurance that the adaptive equipment or vans will be of the best quality and will cater to their specific needs. By visiting our website, online users can find out more about the services which are offered by the Mobility Resource and at the same time, they will be able to receive the guarantee that the adaptive equipment purchased on our website has met or exceeded the federal standards on safety. Far more than suggesting adaptive equipment, the website will provide users with the chance to access many mobility resources, such as state Medicaid programs, Medicare carriers per state, and the Department of Veteran Affairs. Each of these specific mobility resources will be able to offer assistance to the disabled individual, or family, such as the Exceptional Parent Magazine, which is a magazine that has been specifically created for parents of children with special needs.

The range of adaptive equipment which can be sourced on our site can be as specific as the Turning Automotive Seat or the car hand controls, so feel free to view the Mobility Resource site for further information. The adaptive equipment vehicle conversions include conversions for rear entry vehicles, fold out ramps, in floor ramps and side entry vehicles. The in-floor ramps are deployed from the inside and when stowed, the ramp will not hamper the interior space of the finds. The entire range adaptive equipment is detailed on our website, and this allows buyers to make the correct decision on the adaptive equipment best suited to their specific needs. By visiting our site, internet browsers will be able to locate a dealer in their area, and make use of our needs assessment resources to allow the correct choice in adaptive equipment to be made.

Scooter Lifts - REFERENCE ARTICLE

Now that you or a loved one have started to use a powered scooter to help you get around you may find yourself faced with the problem of getting your scooter from one place to another. These scooters are powered by batteries and as such tend to be relatively heavy. This can make it difficult for many people to lift them up into the trunk of a car or into the back or a van. Scooter lifts were created specifically for this purpose and can give a person the complete sense of freedom that they expected when they first bought their scooter.Scooter lifts come in wide variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate the many different styles of scooters that are currently on the market. More importantly than the fact that you can buy a lift that will fit the majority of scooters on the market is the fact that you can buy a lift to fit almost any car, truck or van on the road.

Thanks to the ever developing technologies being used, you no longer need a full size van to haul a scooter lift that weighs hundreds of pounds. Modern scooter lifts are made from lightweight aluminum and use small electric motors to power then instead if heavy steel frames and massive hydraulic systems. The newer lifts are light enough that if you own more than one vehicle, you can have a mount installed in each vehicle and switch the rest of the lift from one vehicle to the other quite easily. In fact with some of models it can be done by one person in a matter of minutes, There are two different styles of scooter lifts, those that are designed to store the scooter on the outside of the vehicle and those that are designed to let the person in the scooter ride his scooter into the vehicle and remain seated in it for the duration of the trip. Those that are designed to be used to help load the scooter and operator as one into position to roll inside the vehicle are generally made to hide away either inside or under the vehicle out of the way.

There are also lighter duty scooter lifts that are designed to lift only the weight of the scooter so that it can be rolled into the back of a truck or van (both full size and minivan). While not quite as heavy duty these units are designed to be folded out of the way when not in use and require only the push of a button to operate. All lifts are designed to make life as easy as possible for both the scooter operator and for anyone helping them.

If you would like to learn more about scooter lifts or would like to schedule an appointment to have one installed on your vehicle, you should contact The Mobility Resource. With a large network of dealers they have resources to help you find the scooter lift that is best suited to your needs and the experienced technicians on hand to install it for you.

Wheelchair Accessible Vans - REFERENCE ARTICLE

Now that you have found The Mobility Resource, you can find the perfect transport if you have a disability, from a range of affordable, superior quality outfitted wheelchair accessible vans. We have a team of experts that will assess your requirements, and tailor make a perfect solution in a vehicle that has all the features to allow you to get around without effort, completely independently. Choose from a comprehensive selection of stunning vehicles that have specialized equipment installed in them specifically designed for the disabled community. We understand your frustration on having to rely of friends and family to get from point A to Point B, but this will no longer be the case once you have invested in wheelchair accessible vans custom made especially for you.

There are some fabulous innovations in equipment nowadays for disabled vehicles, from wheelchair lifts to ramps, specialized vehicle controls, to devices to transport any type of prosthetic accessory. You can use the convenience of the internet to check out a selection of the most affordable wheelchair accessible vans for sale, in new and used models, plus we will guide you to get affordable financing from The GM Mobility Reimbursement program for the vehicle of your choice. Clients can rest assured of dealing with a reputable, licensed, dealer of these specialized vehicles, with an expert team dedicated to satisfying your every need. Contact us to view a range of wheelchair accessible vans from Chevrolet to Pontiac, Hummer to SAAB and deal with The Mobility Resource a company well known for going the extra mile for their clients dedicated towards your complete satisfaction.

A lot of research has been done to design special adaptive equipment for handicapped people, and you can read about the state of the art features in different controls for vehicles suitable for different disabilities. When you own wheelchair accessible vans, you can look forward to having full mobility again to go places independently. The Mobility Resource have designed this website to make a starting point in convenience for you to browse through what there are in vehicles of this nature, and to read up information to inform you of all the options in these wheelchair accessible vans for sale.

You will see information on the easy to use ramps for wheelchair access, side or rear, and special powerful lifts for loading, as examples of the features you can enjoy. Parking facilities in most areas for the disabled have been designed large enough in space to operate your equipment as well. With regards to steering and controls most vehicles are fully automatic, with controls for easy steering, and driving, but there are also options of manual wheelchair accessible vans if you prefer this. Read the information on all the adaptive equipment which will also help you decide what you want in wheelchair accessible vans, and if you have a vehicle already, you may wish to consider trading it in for something newer with the latest features installed..

Wheelchair Lifts - REFERENCE ARTICLE

Becoming disabled as a result of an accident or due to an illness can be a huge blow for anyone, because normal everyday tasks now become a huge chore. If you are fiercely independent, it is hard asking others for help, because you feel like a huge burden to them, and when you want to go places it is extremely difficult arranging transport. Fortunately governments all over the world are taking the plight of the disabled seriously, and now a lot of facilities in accessibility make it easier for those with disabilities. Vehicle manufacturers' have also designed a variety of vehicles for the disabled community, and special wheelchair lifts overcome the difficulties of loading and unloading of scooters, wheelchairs, and other prosthetic devices. If you were looking for wheelchair lifts online, you will be delighted at having discovered The Mobility Resource wheelchair accessible vans and cars.

Wheelchair lifts are just one example of the many conversions now possible, with a huge range of adaptive equipment for handicapped vehicles. Special steering and vehicle management controls make driving these cars and vans quite simple after a little practice. When you choose your wheelchair vans conversions in wheelchair lifts, there are different options for access, which can be either from the side, or from the rear. Wheelchair lifts operate electrically, and hydraulically, being very powerful and whisper quiet in operation. Once you have spotted a vehicle you would like to own in your favorite make and model; all types of adaptive equipment can be installed with wheelchair lifts as well, and you can use the services of The Mobility Resource that are the experts at customizing wheelchair accessible vans.

We have a network of dealers of special cars and vans for the handicapped community, helping our clients every step of the way regain their independence in traveling where they want to, when they want to. Browse the links on this website showing you information on wheelchair lifts, fully adjustable seats, driving controls and other features your wheelchair van or car can be fitted with. When you are happy, talk to our highly trained professionals that have years of experience for customizing vehicles for the disabled communities. We also offer you assistance with affordable financing for your wheelchair lifts outfitted vans, and you will definitely find a perfect vehicle at our dealerships closest to your location.

Once you have purchased your cars or vans fitted with adaptive driving controls and wheelchair lifts; The Mobility Resource are always ready to assist you with services of maintenance for your vehicles, and you are welcome to call us for fast friendly help anytime. If you already own wheelchair accessible vans, you can upgrade your wheelchair lifts with something new, or even trade your current vehicles to get a newer model. Deal with a reputable supplier that has years of experience, and look forward to results driven services always dedicated to our clients complete satisfaction, with an eye on building up long term relationships with our clients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - Handicap Adaptive Vans, Wheelchair Lifts & More