How to Choose a Wheelchair Lift for Your Vehicle
Wheelchair lifts for vehicles help to enhance the ability of wheelchair-bound people to move by car. However, not every wheelchair lift will be suitable for use with any vehicle. This article discusses some of the factors that can help you to select the best wheelchair lift for your needs.
Compare the Available Types
Manufacturers design a variety of wheelchair lifts to suit the needs of different users. For instance, some wheelchair lifts are designed to be installed inside the vehicle. Such lifts act as a hoist that lifts the wheelchair into the cargo section of the vehicle. Others can be mounted outside the vehicle. Such wheelchair lifts allow the user to drive onto and off a platform in order to get into the vehicle. The wheelchair can then be kept at the back of the vehicle during the journey. Hybrids of these two versions also exist. You should consider all these options before you select the one that appeals to you.
Think About Your Vehicle
You need to consider your vehicle before you select a wheelchair lift. For instance, the storage space available may determine which type of lift is suitable for you. A van may allow the use of a lift that is installed inside the vehicle, for example. However, an external lift may be more suitable for a vehicle with limited storage space. Find a wheelchair lift that is compatible with your vehicle.
Examine the Lift's Features
Wheelchair lifts are available with a variety of features. For instance, they can differ in terms of how the wheelchair is secured onto the lift. Some lifts have tie-downs that require the user to use some energy to fasten the wheelchair onto the lift. Others have self-tensioning straps that are easier to use for those with limited dexterity. Some lifts come with automated ways to secure the wheelchair. It is also possible to buy a lift with a platform that can be adjusted in order to accommodate different sizes of wheelchairs. Find a wheelchair lift that offers you the best combination of features.
It may not be prudent to look at price as the primary factor when choosing a wheelchair lift. This is because the cheapest lift may not be easy to use, so you may end up not getting the ease of mobility that you hoped the lift would provide. It is better to pay a little more for a wheelchair lift that will not strain you as you try to get into a vehicle.