Adaptive Driving Equipment

Transportation

Automotive Mobility Equipment and Modifications

By Michael Dresdner

Last Updated:

Whenever I assist a client with the purchase of adaptive equipment, I’m reminded of how difficult the process is. It’s different from purchasing something like an oven. Your entire life, you have used an oven. Therefore, you know if you want a self-cleaning oven, you know whether you prefer gas versus electric, and you have an idea how much the oven should cost. When it comes to ovens, you are a capable consumer and reasonably well informed.

Adaptive equipment is just the opposite. You’ve probably never used this type of product before. Your need for this equipment may have come within the past 4-6 months.

• How can you become an informed consumer?
• How can you make educated decisions?
• How can you be certain that you will get the right product at the right price?

This article which explores several categories of adaptive equipment will help you become a more educated and confident consumer.

Minor Assistance Entering and Exiting a Vehicle

In many cases bending over to enter a car or walking to the entry door of the car can be difficult for persons with limited mobility. If you have limited balance or if you fatigue easily, consider the following simple adaptations:

Grab Handles or Straps

Grab handles can be installed just inside the door of a car or van. In many cases they can also be attached to the headliner (ceiling) area of the vehicle. In extreme cases, handles can be installed on the exterior of the vehicle as well. Grab handles, although simple, can be dangerous if installed improperly. They must be securely installed and they must not aggravate head injury criteria (HIC) as outlined by the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)

Railing(s) mounted along the side of your vehicle

Although this requires screwing the railings into the exterior of the vehicle, if the application offers a long term solution, it may be useful. Cosmetically appealing railings are available for this use.

Stand-Pivot Transfer to a Vehicle

Many individuals can stand-pivot transfer independently or with the aid of a caregiver. New advances in automotive seating technology offer effective solutions.

Powered Turning Automotive Seating Technology (Bruno TAS)

Swivels manually 90 degrees +/- and electrically travels out the vehicle door and down 6-8”. The TAS allows an easy stand-pivot transfer or a level wheelchair to automotive seat transfer. An option available with the TAS seat is a wheelchair base (Bruno Carony) that integrates with the TAS vehicle seat. With this option, no transfer is required. The Carony and the TAS seat integrate to become the wheelchair. This is a great product, but it has limited applications.

Freedom Seat

This seat is similar to the Bruno TAS, but with broader applications due to the highly programmable electronics.

Manual swivel seating systems

This option allows for Allows a stand-pivot transfer. More rotation in the pivot transfer and greater strength is required than with the products described above.

Manual Swivel, Power Extend Seating (Braun Companion Seat)

Although this product has limited applications, the powered in/out feature works well. This seating system allows an easy stand-pivot transfer and in some cases, a slide board transfer.

Products listed above have limited applications. They are not applicable with all vehicles. In addition to the above listed products, a scooter or wheelchair lift may be required to stow your mobility device. Grab handles may also be helpful. Consult a NMEDA QAP mobility equipment dealer before purchasing purchase of a vehicle.

UNOCCUPIED WHEELCHAIR AND SCOOTER STORAGE

In many cases, individuals require a personal mobility device (scooter or wheelchair) only for moving long distances like at a mall or an outdoor event. Or an individual may have a caregiver who can assist in entering an auto and can then load a scooter or wheelchair. There are now many brands of lifts that provide this type of transportation alternative. Listed below are the most common applications:

Scooter or Wheelchair Automotive Trunk Lift

Allows an unoccupied scooter or manual wheelchair to be loaded into the trunks of some cars. The size and shape of the trunk will impact how large a unit will fit. Some applications require substantial balance and dexterity to operate. Not all trunks can accommodate a lift. If you don’t own a scooter or wheelchair and plan to acquire one, discuss the purchase with your NMEDA QAP mobility equipment dealer in advance.

Scooter or Wheelchair Automotive Rear Hatch Lift for mini vans and SUVs SUV’s

These are sometimes referred to as a hybrid platform lift. Hybrid lifts allow an unoccupied scooter, manual or powered wheelchair to be loaded into the rear hatch of many mini vans and SUV’s (sport utility vehicles). The size and weight of the wheelchair or scooter will determine if this application is an option. Some applications require substantial balance and dexterity to operate. Not all hatches can accommodate an appropriate lift. Many mini vans are available with a factory installed powered rear hatch. This device can be very helpful for users of the equipment as the hatch may be difficult for some users to operate manually . for some users. Often a manually operated rear hatch is easy to open , but may be hard to close. Your reach may be limited. Your NMEDA QAP mobility dealer may be able to install a strap to make closing the hatch easier to manage.

Scooter or Wheelchair Side Sliding Door Lift for mini vans

Most mini vans have driver and passenger side sliding doors. For independent drivers or passengers who choose chose to remain as independent as possible, a driver or passenger side sliding door scooter or wheelchair lift may be an option. Proximity to the driver or passenger seat may be beneficial. A strong stand-pivot transfer is necessary for independent use. For certain independent transfer applications the vehicle may need to be equipped with a factory powered driver (or passenger) side sliding door. Center seating will need to be removed and access to rear seating may be affected.

Scooter or Wheelchair Trailer Hitch Mounted Lifts

These lifts allow Allows an exterior location for wheelchair and scooter transportation. A class III type trailer hitch is required for mounting these devices due to the weight of the lift and the mobility device. Limited models of vehicles are designed to safely accommodate a class III hitch which is typically used for pulling heavy loads. Use of this type of lift should be carefully considered. Problems that can exist due to the added weight of the lift, wheelchair, or scooter can include inadequate vehicle suspension and potentially unsafe changes in the braking and handling characteristics of the vehicle as well as unacceptable GAWR (gross axle weight rating) overloading. Other important criteria include inclement weather considerations, theft and damage in the event of a rear end collision. Consider all other options prior to considering a trailer hitch mounted lift. Trailer hitch type lifts often require changes in the suspension of the vehicle, such as air shocks. Your NMEDA QAP mobility dealer can elaborate on each of these issues and help you understand if a hitch mounted lift is an option for you.

The products listed above have specific applications. Consult a NMEDA QAP mobility equipment dealer before purchasing a scooter, wheelchair or vehicle.

Trailers for Scooters and Wheelchairs

In some cases, pulling a small trailer may be the only option for transporting a mobility device. As well as local trailer retailers, there are specialized trailers for this purpose. See your local mobility equipment dealer for additional options.

ENTERING AND EXITING A VEHICLE SEATED IN A WHEELCHAIR OR ON A SCOOTER

Entering a vehicle from either a wheelchair or scooter can be complex. In all cases , you will need to own a van. Cars just do not don’t have the interior room or entry dimensions necessary for occupied wheelchair transport. Entry may require that your van be structurally modified. In order to determine your needs , it is critically important to identify certain criteria about yourself and your wheelchair.

Be aware of your combined personal and wheelchair weight. Wheelchair lifts and vehicles have weight limitations. Overweight applications can be dangerous. By Federal law a vehicle’s GVW (gross vehicle weight) may not be exceeded. Very dangerous issues can exist if a vehicle is overloaded. NMEDA QAP dealers weigh each vehicle they intend to modify and can inform you of these potentially dangerous conditions prior to placing you in jeopardy.

Know your seated height in your wheelchair. Vehicles vary in door entry height and interior headroom. A good gauge is to allow a minimum of 2 inches of clearance above your head for door entry and for interior headroom. The latter being the most critical to avoid head or neck injury in the event of an accident.

Know the width and length of your wheelchair or scooter. Not all wheelchair lifts or ramps are wide enough to accommodate all wheelchairs. Again, a good gauge is to allow a minimum of 1 inch on each side of your wheelchair or scooter on the vehicle lift or ramp. Ramps are continuous thus length is generally not an issue. The length of a wheelchair lift is important. Your wheelchair must fit on the lift platform without risking that your footrests obstruct the safety barrier flap and that you fit completely on the lift without touching the inboard roll stop. Due to acknowledged safety issues newer NHTSA-compliant lifts (lifts manufactured after April 2005 to more rigorous safety criteria) will not operate properly if your wheelchair is too long.

The following are some general specifications for door entry height and interior head room (prior to any vehicle modification). The actual dimensions vary from model to model. Never purchase a van prior to discussions with a NMEDA QAP mobility equipment dealer about your specific needs.

MINI VANS

SIDE SLIDING DOOR ENTRY HEIGHT 44-46”

INTERIOR HEADROOM 47- 49 50”

AMERICAN MADE FULL SIZE VANS

SIDE CARGO DOOR ENTRY HEIGHT 47-48”

INTERIOR HEADROOM 52-53”

Many van options exist for modifications exist of vans to accommodate an individual entering a vehicle while seated in a wheelchair or scooter. In the event that your seated height exceeds the measurements listed above, you may very likely need one or more of the following structural modifications.

Lowered floor

Both the “ever-popular mini van" as well as full sized vans can be modified to include a lowered floor. Lowering the vehicle floor increases both the door entry height of the van and the interior headroom. The area within the vehicle that becomes useable interior room can vary greatly from model to model. In addition to greater door entry height and interior headroom, lowered floors offer a good line of sight for the wheelchair occupant. With this modification the occupant actually sits lower in the van relative to the windows. This lower seating placement corresponds to the depth of the lowered floor available and varies from vehicle to vehicle. This web link shows how a lowered floor is added to a side entry, lowered floor minivan as well as other interior configurations that may best suit a wheelchair or scooter user.

http://braunability.com/wheelchair-minivans.cfm

Raised Fiberglas Roof

Most American made full size and mini vans can be fitted with a raised roof. It should be noted that most mini vans are not greatly enhanced by the addition of a raised roof as the available roof models are very limited and are more cosmetic than functional. A raised roof on a full sized van can provide significant additional interior headroom. Unlike a lowered floor, raised Fiberglas s roofs do not provide an optimal line of sight out of the vehicle windows for most wheelchair users. Most raised roofs include a structural steel support system to restore the chassis’s chassis integrity to pre-modification levels. Installation of a raised roof should be accomplished without reducing the crashworthiness of the vehicle. A NMEDA QAP mobility dealer can inform you of the necessary steps to take when adding a raised roof.

Raised doors (also referred to as extended doors)

In the case of a van with a raised Fiberglas s roof , it is possible to structurally modify the doors to allow increased door entry height. As with the lowered floor, this is a complex structural modification. Crashworthiness of the vehicle must be maintained. Consult a NMEDA QAP mobility dealer for additional information.

Unlike past practices which supported a local structural modifier most structurally modified vans are now built to exacting specifications by large “assembly line modifiers .” ”. These modifiers are authorized to perform the modifications ; and after completion , these vans maintain full OE (original equipment) warranties. Most remain fully compliant with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). Most assembly line modifiers are NMEDA associate members. AnyIn the case of a lowered fl oor mini van, due to the complexity of the modifications , it is exceptionally rare that a mobility equipment dealer would perform the structural modification. In almost all cases NMEDA QAP mobility dealers represent one or more quality-built line(s) of conversion that have been assembled by via a large assembly line manufacturer. Most NMEDA QAP dealers have several mini van models in-stock that you may see and test drive. Never buy a modified van sight unseen.

COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Should I Purchase locally or via the Internet from a direct seller?

This has become a huge question. With the advent and popularity with heavy use of the Internet consumers have options they never had in the past. There are numerous sites online where a consumer can gain information, view different models and even purchase a van! Although “home shopping” for a modified vehicle is enticing This writer feels that it is extremely risky and even illegal in come cases to purchase direct via line. the Internet. Some states do not allow Interstate sales of motor vehicles. Some states require the seller to be a licensed mobility equipment dealer. To find the The best model and the best value for the consumer should are to be educated and preciselyfitted locally. Acquiring a mobility vehicle is a complex process. The consumer generally has (and should have) very high expectations and only a face to face relationship with a local NMEDA QAP mobility dealer can assure the consumer of a positive outcome as well as appropriate recourse if the transaction is not acceptable to the consumer. See the link below for more information about local versus Internet direct purchases.

http://www.nmeda.org/online_purch/index.html

Should I purchase a wheelchair lift or ramp?

As a general rule, full sized vans require a wheelchair lift. This is due to the height of the vehicle floor from the ground. In the case of a full size van, the ramp would have to be 20’+/- long in order to create a safe and viable ramp angle for entry and exit. A ramp of this length would be nearly impossible to stow. Lowered floormini vans can be equipped with a ramp. The floor level of a lowered floor mini van (after activating the kneeling system which mechanically lowers the vehicle) is generally about 5” from the ground. This allows the installation of a ramp that can be short (about 5’) and does not have a radical slope. A short ramp can be stowed. Long ramps are mechanically prohibitive to fold and stow. Ramps of an excessive slope should never be used for occupied wheelchair loading.

Do I need a full-sized van or mini van?

In most cases a mini van that has not been structurally modified (lowered floor, raised roof and possibly a raised door) will not accommodate an adult seated in a wheelchair due to maximum available dimensions and overall interior size. Children can sometimes be accommodated in a non-structurally modified mini van; although, any use of a non-structurally modified minivan is generally impractical for occupied wheelchair transport. Interior dimensions as well as available seating create limitations. Discuss the use of any non-structurally modified mini van in detail with you local NMEDA QAP mobility equipment dealer. It is often possible to use a full-sized van and gain the door entry height and/or the interior headroom that you require without structural modification. Therefore, the full-sized van can be less costly to modify. Other factors to consider are: the ability to garage your vehicle, fuel economy, driving confidence and comfort, cargo weight capacity (GVWR) as well as room for other personal gear when traveling , etc.

Cargo carrying capacity is a very complex and important issue. See “definitions” within the NMEDA guidelines for “Vehicle Weight Rating” at www.nmeda.org. You may also want to visit the web site listing all FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards) at http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/rules/import/fmvss/index.html. Never overload a motor vehicle.

Should I ride in my wheelchair or scooter, or should I transfer?

Once you enter your vehicle, you may choose to transfer to an automotive seat. In the event you own a scooter or certain models of wheelchairs, you must transfer as certain mobility devices are not crashworthy and can not be safely restrained when occupied. Transferring to an automotive seat may be more comfortable. In the event that you can transfer, powered swivel transfer seats are available for most mini and full-sized vans.

These seats may be required to allow an efficient and safe transfer. In some cases, a grab handle or assist strap can greatly enhance the ease of transfer.

http://www.bdic.biz/Products.html

How will I be restrained in the vehicle?

Products exist to safely secure almost all wheelchairs and scooters. It is extremely important to be aware of which wheelchairs or scooters can be secured when occupied. Many scooters and some wheelchairs do not have sufficient structural integrity to allow safe securement when occupied. If you intend to ride seated in your wheelchair or scooter , you must first contact a NMEDA QAP mobility equipment dealer to confirm that the unit you own can be used safely. If you have not yet purchased a wheelchair or scooter, consult a NMEDA QAP mobility equipment dealer before you purchase.

Manual Strap Type Tiedown Systems

Many types of manual strap systems are available. There are basic ratchet-style strap sets and retractable strap sets. The retractable sets house each strap in a small steel encased reel assembly. The strap is automatically retracted into the casing when not in use and is self tightening when in use. Retractable tiedowns are easy to use, but often become hard to maneuver around on the floor of the van. Ratchet style strap sets work well on most manual and powered wheelchairs (occupied or unoccupied) and on many unoccupied scooters. All strap sets sold for occupied use must include a lap and shoulder belt. For more information on this product see www.sure-loc.com and www.qstraint.com.

Automatic Wheelchair Restraints

Wheelchairs can be secured by an automatic wheelchair restraint. These restraints latch onto a bracket mounted on the bottom of the wheelchair and they are extremely effective. This is the safest type of tiedown where multiple caregivers may be transporting an individual as they are somewhat foolproof and incorporate a safety warning buzzer to alert the user if he/she is not secure. One important note, if a securement bracket (required) is installed on the bottom of a folding wheelchair , the wheelchair will no longer fold.

All automatic tiedowns sold for occupied use must include a lap and shoulder belt. For more information on these products see www.ezlock.net, www.sure-loc.com and www.qstraint.com.

Scooter Docking Stations

This product allows the safe automatic docking of many unoccupied scooters. Although limited in application, the docking station may be an attractive alternative to secure a scooter after an individual has transferred to an automotive seat. For more information on this product see www.creativecontrolsinc.com.

INDEPENDENT DRIVING AND OPERATION OF A MOTOR VEHICLE

The independent operation of a vehicle by persons with a disability is a very complex topic. Additionally, the safety and modification issues are so broad that all potential independent drivers should consult a CDRS (Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist) for a driver evaluation. Most mobility equipment installers require a driver evaluation prior to installing equipment. This relationship between the NMEDA QAP mobility equipment installer and the CDRS is similar to that of your doctor and your pharmacist. One prescribes the treatment and one fills the prescription. With the use of a CDRS conflicts Conflicts of interest are minimized and the outcome is dramatically improved. The evaluation will provide a full range of tests that will conclusively determine if driving is an option. Additionally, appropriate adaptive equipment will be prescribed. See www.aded.org for a list of driver evaluation sites.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Michael Dresdner is president President of Handicapped Driver Services, Inc. ( HDS) an Atlanta, Georgia based vehicle modifier with additional locations in Jacksonville, Florida, Nashville, Tennessee as well as Birmingham, Alabama. Handicapped Driver Services has provided adapted vehicles for the disabled community for over 30 years. HDS is a QAP accredited member of the National Mobility Equipment Dealer’s Association (NMEDA), the Association of Driver Rehabilitation Specialists (ADED) and the Adaptive Driving Alliance (ADA). Michael is a past NMEDA board member having served in several board capacities, a past ADED board member, and a winner of the prestigious ADED commercial award . He and is currently the president of the Adaptive Driving Alliance, a retail mobility dealer services group.

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