While any vehicle can be converted to accommodate a wheelchair user, a more comfortable alternative is a wheelchair van, which has a hand control device to make driving easy. There are two types of wheelchair vans – one where the wheelchair user is a passenger and another where the user is the driver.

The first type of wheelchair van requires simple and minimal alterations. Usually, a wheelchair ramp or a lift is all that is needed for the wheelchair user to board and get off the vehicle. If the wheelchair user will be driving, the wheelchair van will need more modifications to suit the need of the user.

Driving a wheelchair van is a serious responsibility. The wheelchair user has to be assessed by authorities to determine if he or she is qualified to drive. Only then will the person be given a driver’s license. There are assessment centers for this purpose that can effectively evaluate the needs of the person as well as recommend the most suitable wheelchair van to use. It is recommended to seek the advice of professionals experienced in dealing with wheelchair users and vendors.

In assessing the capabilities of a wheelchair user to drive a wheelchair van, a professional would examine the person’s level of eyesight, hearing, mental ability, decision-making, perception and the physical ability to transfer from the wheelchair to the van and to take the wheelchair in and out of the van.

Thanks to modern technology there are numerous devices that can aid the use of a wheelchair van. For instance, if the person is not able to transfer the wheelchair to the wheelchair van he or she can use a wheelchair lift, which runs without human help.

While a wheelchair van is expensive, many manufacturers provide financial services to make these useful vehicles affordable. You can start by visiting the site of major wheelchair van manufacturers to get more information about funding and other financial plans. You can also speak with your insurance company to find out if you can get better rates or look for grant programs offered by some non-profit organizations.

As an alternative to a brand new wheelchair van, you can also look for a used wheelchair van from reputable vendors. There are also mini-vans that have been converted to carry a wheelchair onto the van and secure the wheelchair while inside the moving vehicle. These converted vans are also affordable options.

Whether you plan to purchase a new or wheelchair van, consider getting an extended warranty service so you can save yourself some repair money later on.