Product Information

Latest Adaptive Driving Equipment

2008-08-20T22:08:00Z

View Video
Format: flv
Duration: 10:08

Adaptive Automotive Products – What is Right For Me?

2008-07-03T18:11:00Z

Finding the right transportation solution can seem like a daunting task, due to all the options that are on the market today; minivans, full-size vans, lifts, turning seats, driving controls, etc. The good news is that there are helpful and knowledgeable people in your area that can help. There are three major considerations and I call them the “Three S’s”; Safety, Service and Suitability.

First and foremost, your safety is of utmost concern. When searching for adapted automotive products, first obtain a driver evaluation to assess your ability to drive (if you will be driving). These trained professionals not only help you with the determination as to if you should be driving, but can give you recommendations as to what type of vehicle would be suitable for you. You can located local driver evaluators on the ADED web site, www.aded.net.

Sales and service are also vital when searching for an accessible vehicle. Manufacturers of adapted equipment build the products standard; almost a one-size fits all. However, there are hundreds of disabilities that lend to various levels of mobility. In addition to the physical limitations, there are hundreds of different types of scooters and wheelchairs.

So, to ensure you are purchasing the right mobility product for your unique and individual need that can only be done with the help and expertise of a local mobility equipment dealer. Most mobility equipment dealers (MED) have been in business for years, some decades and with that comes a vast amount of knowledge, not only on the product itself but actually fitting you with the best product.

When talking with your local MED, ask questions like: “Do you have 24 hour emergency assistance?” “Are your technicians trained and certified?” “Are you a member of NMEDA, www.nmeda.org?” Then ask yourself, “How easy are they to do business with?” “Are they listening to me?”

Lastly, while working with your local mobility equipment dealer, find the adaptive vehicle is most suitable for you. Quality mobility equipment dealers will perform a comprehensive needs analysis with you to determine what is best for you. They will ask questions about you, your disability, your wheelchair/scooter, your home and family information (how many people will ride in the vehicle) and budget.

You may see a nice shiny wheelchair accessible minivan on the road, and have envisioned yourself riding in it, but how do you know that is the right vehicle for you? Based on your disability there maybe a lower cost solution for you, like a simple scooter/wheelchair lift or turning seat. Your local mobility equipment dealer can show you a variety of products and answer any questions or concerns that you may have.

Feel free to contact me anytime with any questions that you may have about adaptive automotive solutions or anything related to transportation solutions. Monique McGivney, moniquem@vantagemobility.com.

Automotive Mobility Equipment and Modifications

2008-05-21T21:08:00Z

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. Throughout 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 about literally 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 onto 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 very effective solutions.

Powered Turning Automotive Seating Technology (Bruno TAS)
http://www.bruno.com/bruno-turning-automotive-seating.html
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) http://www.bruno.com/carony.html 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
http://www.freedom-lift.com/index.asp?pageId=137
This seat is similar to the Bruno TAS, but with broader applications due to the highly programmable electronics.

Manual swivel seating systems
http://www.bruno.com/turnout.html
This option allows for 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)
http://braunability.com/companion-seat.cfm
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 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
(See web links preceding this article)
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
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 as the hatch may be difficult for some users to operate manually. 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 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 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 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 47-50"

Full Size Vans
Side Cargo Door Entry Height 47-48"
Interior Headroom 52-53"

Many van modifications exist 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 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 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 Fiberglass 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. In the case of a lowered floor 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 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?
This has become a huge question. With the advent and popularity 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 it is extremely risky and even illegal in some cases to purchase direct via 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 best model and the best value the consumer should be educated and precisely fitted 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 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 floor mini 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.

Cargo carrying capacity is a complex and important issue. See "definitions" within the NMEDA guidelines for "Vehicle Weight Rating" at http://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 http://www.sure-loc.com/ and http://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 http://www.ezlock.net/, http://www.sure-loc.com/ and http://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 http://www.creativecontrolsinc.com/.

Independent Driving and Operation of a Motor Vehicle
The independent operation of a vehicle by persons with a disability is a 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 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 adaptiveequipment will be prescribed. See http://www.aded.org/ for a list of driver evaluation sites.

Michael Dresdner is 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 to 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 is currently the president of the Adaptive Driving Alliance, a retail mobility dealer services group.

Michael may be contacted via email at mdresdner@hdsvans.com or via http://www.hdsvans.com/.

Additional Resources

Automotive Safety Issues for Persons with Disabilities
http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/rules/adaptive/

Unoccupied Wheelchair and Scooter Lifts
http://www.bruno.com/
http://www.freedom-lift.com/
http://www.harmar.com/

Occupied Wheelchair and Scooter Lifts
http://www.braunlift.com/
http://www.vantagemobility.com/

Lowered Floor Minivans
http://www.entervan.com/
http://www.vantagemobility.com/
http://www.viewpointmobility.com/

Mobility Equipment Dealers
http://www.nmeda,org/
http://www.adamobility.com/

Driver Evaluation and Training
http://www.aded.org/

Read more
See Purchasing Adaptive Vehicles Online for answers to common questions concerning purchasing a modified vehicle.

Find the right transportation solution, read Adaptive Automotive Products - What is Right For Me?

Read Consumer Guide to Adaptive Vehicles - What You Need to Know, so that you can make wise choices regarding adaptive vehicles.

Consumer Guide to Adaptive Vehicles – What You Need to Know

2008-03-28T15:03:00Z

Starting to drive again is one of the landmark steps for people who have experienced a spinal cord injury or loss of limb. The good news: there are now many options available in adaptive vehicles. Whether you are retrofitting an existing vehicle using the most recent assistive technology (also known as adaptive technology), or starting from scratch to outfit a new vehicle, the following information will help you make wise choices that fit your personal circumstances.

Who does what? Who has the answers you need? And what do you need to do before you’re “approved” to start driving again? Read on.

Who Does What?

Manufacturers
Manufacturers fall into two categories:. the manufacturers of the original vehicles (companies like Ford, Toyota, GM, etc.), also referred to as OEMs (original equipment manufacturers), and manufacturers of adaptive equipment. These companies either manufacture components that “bolt on” to an OEM vehicle or they perform substantial structural and mechanical alterations to the vehicle such as raising the vehicle’s roof and door or lowering the vehicle floor. Those that manufacture “bolt on” products are referred to as equipment manufacturers and those that perform substantial structural modifications are referred to as second stage manufacturers, alterers, or modifiers.

Dealers or retailers
These are the companies that you, as the consumer, will interact with. They are your retail source for adaptive equipment. They either sell you components and modifications for your existing vehicle or sell you a complete and fully modified vehicle. They are the representatives and distributors of products from many of the second stage manufacturers, alterers, or equipment manufacturers.

Driver evaluators and trainers
These are the professional individuals that determine the equipment needs of disabled persons who wish to drive a vehicle independently. They also provide the required training that disabled individuals need in order to effectively and safely drive a modified vehicle. Locate local evaluators and trainers through the Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists (www.driver-ed.org) under CDRS Directory.

National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA)
NMEDA is the industry association that establishes and administers quality and safety standards for those who sell adaptive vehicles and mobility equipment, including wheelchairs. As part of this process, it facilitates a Quality Assurance Program (QAP) for industry dealers. The NMEDA website (www.nmeda.org) also provides contact information for Veterans Administration and Vocational Rehabilitation agencies as well as OEM rebate programs.

The Purchasing Process
The first step is contacting a dealer or retailer in your area who is knowledgeable about evaluating both your physical needs and the best adaptive technology solutions for your individual circumstances. (The NMEDA website will have contact information for the dealer closest to you; find at http://www.nmeda.org/directory/dealers_us.html directory). The dealer will talk with you about your needs, desires, and constraints and then recommend the vehicle(s) and equipment choices that best fit your needs and budget. NMEDA suggests that as part of evaluating your options, you may want to consult several dealers and gather several recommendations before making a purchase decision.

Once you’ve made your choice, the dealer will then do one of three things:
• Modify your vehicle with purchased components from equipment manufacturers and/or internal manufacturing processes, or
• Purchase a modified vehicle from a second-stage manufacturer or a modifier and then add the final “touches” with components from equipment manufacturers, or
• Send your vehicle to a second-stage manufacturer, or modifier for structural modifications before adding the final “touches.”

What Do Driver Evaluators Do?
Driver evaluators and trainers fit into the process in several ways:

• You may consult with them before you search for dealers to determine what adaptive equipment you need. This process may include having you drive several vehicles equipped with different adaptive technologies to see what best suits you. The evaluator will document your needs in a written “prescription,” which you’ll then take to a dealer will use it to price the specified options.
• If you have been evaluated by a driver trainer, he or she will commonly come to the “fitting” phase, where your modified vehicle is tailored to your particular physical circumstances. The fitting step is where all of the adaptive equipment is positioned in locations appropriate to your needs.
• Once the vehicle is complete and you are ready to drive the vehicle independently, the driver evaluator/trainer will teach you how to properly and safely drive your modified vehicle.

Where to Buy Adaptive Equipment
There are three options for finding and purchasing adaptive equipment:

• You can visit a dealer’s physical location, where you’ll have an opportunity to with a sales representative and try out a variety of equipment options in person. (NMEDA recommends that you use a NMEDA dealer in order to ensure that industry safety and quality standards are being adhered to.)
• You can view the products online and discuss your options over the phone with a sales representative.
• You can contact private individuals who may be selling their used modified vehicle or equipment to others, either online or in person. These opportunities are commonly found among classifieds sections, either in print or online.

What to Buy
You have two choices in two categories: new or used vehicles, and new or used equipment.

New vehicles and equipment can be purchased from adaptive technology dealers, such as those belonging to NMEDA, who specialize in knowing both how to assess your specific driving needs related to your disability and the adaptive technology options available to meet those needs. As noted, you can find a dealer in your area by visiting www.nmeda.org.

Used vehicles and equipment can also be of great value, but will probably require a greater investment of time and possibly money to determine the condition and history of the vehicle and/or equipment.

Also, although used equipment purchased from dealers usually includes warranties, items purchased online or from private individuals probably will not. Consequently, if considering this option you’ll want to be especially diligent about determining whether a give purchase will truly meet your needs. At a minimum, you’ll want to verify that the products will work in your vehicle; are right for your physical size, weight, and disability; will work with your wheelchair (if appropriate); and does not include parts that are obsolete or worn out (e.g., wheelchair tie downs.) Also, you’ll need to find a qualified individual to install adaptive equipment purchased in the private market if you are not able to do it yourself. (Most dealers won’t install equipment that they did not sell.)

What equipment? As stated previously, there are many equipment manufacturers. You may want to research your equipment options online before either visiting a dealer or considering used equipment (or after visiting a dealer and learning what equipment they sell). One way to do that is to visit manufacturers’ websites, many of which are very informative. Also, if working with a dealer, you can contact most manufacturers to verify if your dealer is an authorized distributor of their products and confirm that the dealer’s recommendations are appropriate and applicable to your vehicle and physical circumstances.

For wheelchairs being transported in vehicles, you may also want to check out the RERC on Wheelchair Transportation Safety, www.rercwts.org, which provides important information about WC-19 compliant wheelchairs (i.e., wheelchairs designed to be safe while being transported in a vehicle).

Things to Consider Before Making Your Purchase

Your wheelchair or scooter
The size, dimensions and features of your wheelchair or scooter can greatly influence the vehicle and equipment that will work best for you and can therefore greatly affect the cost of your adaptive equipment and vehicle modifications. If you’re working with a dealer, it’s always preferable to contact a dealer and discuss your needs and desires for your vehicle prior to purchasing your wheelchair or scooter. If you already have your wheelchair or scooter, inform your dealer if you plan to purchase a different one soon, so the dealer can recommend adaptive equipment that may be useful for your future wheelchair or scooter. (For information on wheelchair safety and compliance, e.g., SAEJ2249, visit http://www.travelsafer.org/.)

Will you be using the vehicle independently or with fulltime assistance? The answer to this question can greatly alter what vehicles and equipment will be appropriate for you. If you have fulltime assistance, you can possibly save considerable money by buying manually operated products as opposed to automatic products. If you will be using the vehicle alone, you’ll want to focus on adaptive equipment suited to your specific needs and abilities (that is, automated for easier operation).

Will you be remaining in your wheelchair while getting into and out of the vehicle, and while the vehicle is in motion? This question can also be dependent on your answer to the previous question. Again, your equipment and vehicle options greatly vary depending on whether you remain in your mobility aid or not when entering, exiting or traveling in the vehicle. Your physical abilities play a significant role in the options that are available to you.

Are you driving the vehicle with adaptive equipment or riding as a passenger? Driving a vehicle with adaptive controls can vary from relatively simple inexpensive modifications such as spinner knobs and hand controls to more complicated and expensive systems costing as much as the vehicle. The process of driving a vehicle with adaptive controls can be highly complex, so you may want to consult with industry professionals who can help with both the technology and training.

Where and how are you going to use the modified vehicle? Consider issues such as road conditions in your usage area, weather, number of passengers and cargo weight and size requirements.

The answers to these questions will help you determine your available options. You’ll probably also want to consult with NMEDA dealers, manufacturers, driver trainers/evaluators, and other members of the disabled community to get the best sense of what adaptive technology and equipment choices and vehicle modifications most effectively meet your needs.

Safety and Compliance
The safety of you, your passengers, and everyone else on the roadway is a paramount consideration when purchasing and using an adaptive vehicle. Some important issues to consider:

Training
Make sure you thoroughly understand your adaptive driving controls, equipment, and related systems. If you purchase online or from a private party, work with your driver evaluator/trainer to make sure you have completely mastered the equipment and understand all safety, maintenance, and usage information.

f you purchase from a dealer, make sure your purchase includes being properly trained in the use of your adaptive equipment during the “delivery process,” which is the term used to describe the method by which the dealer provides you with your completed vehicle. This process should be very thorough and never rushed. Your proper education on how to use and maintain your adaptive equipment and vehicle is crucial in reducing the chances of personal injury to you or those who use your vehicle. During this process you should receive and review with your dealer the owner’s manuals from each piece of adaptive equipment in your vehicle. This is also the time to determine your responsibilities to ensure that the equipment stays in safe and good operating condition.

Service
Because of the complexity of many assistive technologies, regular maintenance and service is critical to ensuring safe operation and reliability. However, servicing adaptive vehicles and equipment is not the same as a routine oil change. Adaptive technologies can present complex maintenance challenges, so part of your responsibility as an owner will be to understand all of your adaptive vehicle or equipment’s maintenance needs and to find service providers for those items you can’t do yourself. If you have purchased from a local dealer, they will usually offer service and maintenance support; if you have purchased online or through a private party, you’ll want to determine who is qualified in your area to provide these services for you before you need their assistance.

Compliance
Regardless of whether you purchase your adaptive vehicle or equipment from a local dealer, online, or from a private party, making sure that the seller is in compliance with industry standards and Federal regulations will help ensure that you purchase a vehicle, equipment, and/or modifications that are safe and appropriate to your needs. If you are purchasing from a dealer who is a NMEDA member, check to make sure that participate in the organization’s Quality Assurance Program (QAP), which requires that all participating members be inspected by an independent engineering firm to monitor quality, compliance and other company issues such as insurance and proper registration with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (The QAP is a voluntary program and participating dealers agree to abide by industry guidelines, developed by NMEDA, in regard to the procedures and processes they follow when modifying vehicles.)

Another dealer quality and compliance indicator to check for is NHTSA registration, a program of the Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which develops and enforces safety regulations for OEMs. NHTSA registration ensures that adaptive vehicles, equipment, and modifications sold by dealers comply with federal safety regulations. (Call 888-327-4236 or go to www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/rules/adaptive/Modifier/Index.cfm to verify a dealer’s registration.)

Finally, if you are working with a local dealer, always ask them whether they conform to the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), regulations developed and administered by NHTSA that primarily apply to OEMs, and how these regulations relate to your modifications.

Warranty and Service Considerations
If you purchase your adaptive equipment from a dealer or manufacturer, the level of service and the warranty you receive are substantial factors in the value they add. As part of your purchase decision, you should consider these questions:

Where is the service location? If you buy from a dealer in your local market, your service location is usually the same as the sales location. If you purchase from an online retailer or personal individual, finding a service location may prove difficult, as many dealers won’t service equipment brands that they do not sell because of safety concerns.

Is after-hours service available? This can be an important consideration if you are highly dependent on your adapted vehicle, and a system malfunction can be seriously disruptive to your life. If so, you may want to verify 24-hour or after-hours availability of technicians (NMEDA dealers provide 24 hour after hours answering service).

Can you get your adaptive equipment serviced and/or /repaired when on vacation? If your equipment has been purchased online or through a private party, you’ll want to do a bit of research before you travel to identify where to get your vehicle repaired should the need arise. If you purchase from a dealer, they should be able to tell you what other dealers within a given geographic location can provide service for your specific adaptive equipment.

What are the terms of the warranties? All new adaptive equipment and modifications should come with a warranty. Like vehicle warranties, warranties for adaptive vehicles and equipment vary in terms and coverage. Some warranties only cover parts and others cover parts and labor. Always require a dealer or online seller of new equipment to provide you with the written terms of all warranties during the sales process. Extended warranties should also be considered. Repairs to adaptive equipment can be very expensive and warranties can help lower the lifetime operating costs of the equipment.

Funding
Purchasing a modified vehicle can be very expensive, so it makes sense to check out all possible options for funding assistance. Some options to research:

State agencies
Every state has a Vocational Rehabilitation Program. These are state-funded programs that assist disabled individuals to get back into or remain in the work place. In some cases they provide funding for vehicle modifications. Check with your local program for qualifications.

Veterans Administration
The Veterans Administration funds adaptive equipment for qualifying veterans. Inquire at www.va.gov/about_va or 202-273-7124.

Charitable organizations and/or churches
Check with your local public library for a list of the charitable organizations and churches in your area, and ask the librarian if he or she is aware of any other resources that might be useful in your research.

Mobility rebate programs
Most vehicle manufacturers (Ford, GM, Toyota, etc.) provide rebates to purchasers of new vehicles that require modifications for disabilities. Before you purchase a new vehicle for modifications, inquire with your dealer about applicable rebates.

Special finance programs
A wide variety of programs are available for financing mobility vehicles, including loans with extended terms, leasing packages, and more. Check with your dealer for more information about special financing programs being offered.

Resources
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
www.nhtsa.gov
The portal to the federal agency that regulates adaptive vehicles. From the home page select “Traffic Safety” at the top of the page then “Disabled Drivers and Passengers.”

Ride Safe Brochure
http://www.travelsafer.org
Information to help you travel more safely in motor vehicles while seated in your wheelchair.

Provided by the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Assn., Sponsored by SRD Bolduc Inc.

Read More
For more product information, see Automotive Mobility Equipment and Modifications.

To learn about the differences between purchasing modified vehicles on-line compared to in-person, see Purchasing Adaptive Vehicles Online.

For additional information on transportation solutions, see Adaptive Automotive Products - What is Right For Me?

Purchasing Adaptive Vehicles Online

2008-03-28T14:56:00Z

The following web pages and information are brought to you by NMEDA. NMEDA is a non-profit association of mobility equipment dealers, driver rehabilitation specialists, and other professionals dedicated to broadening the opportunities for people with disabilities to drive or be transported in vehicles modified with mobility equipment.

The information outlined in this site is designed to inform you, the consumer, of the differences between purchasing new modified vehicles on-line as compared to in-person. NMEDA supports face-to-face sales performed by local or regional establishments; the method NMEDA believes provides the best product fit, service, and safety for the consumer.

We want to assist in educating you about the importance of industry standards, safety, service, training and value when purchasing a new modified vehicle. Whether you decide to purchase your next vehicle from an internet seller or in-person, the following information will help you make an educated purchase that is appropriate for you.

Click on the following listings in the index for answers to the common questions concerning purchasing a modified vehicle. Any terms underlined may be clicked for further information.

1. The Sales Process

2. Appropriateness of the Product

3. Compliance with Industry Standards and Regulations

4. Safety

5. After Sale – Service and Warranty

6. Value

7. Industry Links