Handicap accessible vehicles
Physically and mentally challenged persons have become more readily accepted into the general society in recent times. Those who are capable of mobility and social interaction are encouraged to participate in normal activities along with other people to the best of their ability. They are no longer considered an inferior class of citizens, but rather a group who deserve more privileges because of the extra effort they have to make to live a normal life. Society at large appreciates their willingness to make the attempt and does everything possible to assist them.
Besides its utility value, travel is also one of the most enjoyable leisure activities of modern societies. The automobile industry has done its bit for handicapped persons by coming out with a variety of vehicles specially designed to cater to their requirements. The only major difference between these and other vehicles is in the seating arrangement for the disabled person. If the person is mentally fit to drive a vehicle, special arrangements are made to the drivers seat as well as the driving system to overcome the disadvantages of certain physical disabilities. Such vehicles are marked in a manner that they can be clearly identified by other drivers, who are expected to give preference to the handicapped driver.
Types of Handicap Accessible Vehicles
Vehicles accessible to handicapped persons generally refer to vehicles that can accommodate wheel chairs, and can be broadly divided into three main categories. The first allows the handicapped person to travel in the front of the vehicle alongside the driver. This is referred to as the car chair or up front type. The second is a larger vehicle which allows the handicapped person to travel at the back, behind the rear passenger seats. They provide a more spacious area and are referred to as the open road or rear access type. The third is specially adapted to allow the handicapped person to personally drive the vehicle. It is generally referred to as the drive from type, indicating that the vehicle can be driven from the handicapped persons seat itself. The system provided to transfer the wheelchair in and out of the car is generally similar for most manufacturers.
The vehicles are normally standard saloons or passenger multi-purpose-vehicles. They may not be readily available with most dealers but they can be made available within a very short time. There are agencies that can provide these vehicles, or at least specific information concerning them and where they can be seen and purchased. One of them is the Accessible Vans of America, LLC, or AVA for short. They are committed to providing accessible vehicles for disabled persons throughout the USA. Similar organizations are functioning in the USA and other countries. Organizations like these can arrange vehicles for direct purchase or for rent. Owners can get their vehicles serviced and maintained through these organizations. Vehicles can be rented on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. Some disabled persons may have special needs and the agencies are useful in communicating these requirements to the manufacturers. They can also arrange for conversion vehicles that can be adapted for wheelchairs as well as for normal use as and when required.
Some handicapped persons may have a preference for a particular model car. They should discuss their needs with the manufacturer or the garage that undertakes the conversion before making the purchase. The normal time taken for a conversion is between two to four weeks. Special personal requirements can be incorporated into the conversion process.
Most suppliers of handicapped accessible vehicles allow potential customers to try out demonstration vehicles and get familiar with them before purchase. They will even bring them to the clients home whenever practically possible. They recognize that each customer is likely to have distinctive requirements. They will have trained personnel who are capable of assessing specific needs and suggesting suitable alterations. A good supplier will take care to ensure that the buyer makes the right choice where essentials are concerned, so that there are no complaints later on. Proper advice on maintenance and service ensures trouble free running. Regular maintenance checks are essential so after sales service should be quick and competent. Though there may not be special mandatory safety standards for these vehicles, the industry itself ensures maximum protection is available in the event of an accident. There are many used vehicles in this segment available for purchase. These should be thoroughly checked for performance and safety.
Conclusion
Comparative costs and benefits of different vehicles should be carefully studied before buying one of them. The essentials to keep in mind when choosing a vehicle for handicapped persons are easy operation, comfort, safety and flexibility. It has to be user friendly to be of any assistance to the disabled. It should be sufficiently roomy to accommodate and maneuver a wheel chair within a reasonable space. Rear access vehicles should be properly ventilated. Heating and cooling systems should be equally effective throughout the vehicle. Safety features should include non-slip ramps with gradual incline. Passengers and assistants should not be put to excessive strain to get the wheelchair in and out of the vehicle. The chair should be firmly held in place and should not experience undue vibrations. It should be as safe as the other seats in the unfortunate event of an accident. It should be easy to adjust for normal use when the handicapped person is not traveling. The upholstery should be very comfortable and the colors aesthetically pleasant. Driving in it should be a pleasurable experience for the challenged
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