Vehicles with a lowered floor will reduce the centre of gravity of the wheelchair user , promoting a feeling of stability and lessening the effect of ‘ body-roll ’ as the vehicle leans from side to side under cornering .
While you can gain an understanding of these variables in a stationary vehicle , a comprehensive test drive is important , for the wheelchair user , drivers and other passengers , to ensure that the solution works in the real-world environment that it will typically be used in .
Most passenger wheelchair accessible vehicle can be categorised based on where the wheelchair is located within the vehicle . Rear location , where the wheelchair user travels at the very back of the vehicle , tends to be the lowest cost option . However , the wheelchair user can feel more isolated and would tend to experience a poorer ride quality .
Locating the wheelchair user centrally in the vehicle offers greater inclusion , both socially and for carer access , and offers better visibility and ride quality – at a higher cost . A wheelchair up-front layout , where the wheelchair user travels next to the driver , offers greater inclusion and vision – typically at a higher cost still .
Wherever the wheelchair user travels within the vehicle , your assessment should include the ability of the assistant or carer to easily and safely attach the wheelchair restraints and safety belt that make up the WTORS .
Cost considerations
Once you have identified and tested a suitable solution that meets your clients ’ needs you may need to report on the cost . There are several factors that will affect the overall cost , as well as the ongoing costs of owning and running a vehicle .
Some clients might prefer to purchase a vehicle outright and this option provides the greatest freedom over how the vehicle is used and how long it might be before it is replaced .
While this option carries the highest up-front cost , including the need to independently insure and maintain the vehicle , outright ownership means that when the time comes to replace it , the residual value of the vehicle benefits the purchaser .
The Motability Scheme is a popular route to a new wheelchair accessible vehicle for people in receipt of allowances such as the Personal Independence Payment . In return for paying the allowance to Motability and making an upfront ‘ advance payment ’, your client can lease a new wheelchair accessible vehicle for a five-year contract , with maintenance and insurance included .
While the initial cost can be lower , there are restrictions on things like mileage and who can drive the vehicle , and at the end of the contract the vehicle is returned to Motability .
Alternatively , if your client is looking for a vehicle for a specific period of time , undergoing rehabilitation , or looking for flexibility , it is even possible to hire a wheelchair accessible vehicle , so bear this in mind when looking for a shorter-term solution .
Get involved
In summary , with this hands-on , three-stage assessment process you can gain a deeper understanding of how to assess your client ’ s transport needs , and recommend wheelchair accessible vehicles to suit them .
While it may seem daunting at first , your confidence will grow the more exposure to transport solutions you get – so don ’ t be afraid to get involved .
Words JAMES PITT-KERBY , Brotherwood . We are here to guide you through every step of the way . To learn more , ask us questions and talk about your clients visit www . brotherwood . com or
0330 1747 555 .
Above : Access is just the start , there are a range of factors to consider when assessing transport for wheelchair users
May 2024 OTnews 17