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Wheelchair lifts are indispensible accessories that every handicap van must have, since they make it possible for wheelchair-bound persons to enter or exit the van without having to leave their chair. These mechanical devices are powered by hydraulics and allow the wheelchair to be easily loaded into the van. There are two main types of lifts available: Platform lifts work by lowering a platform onto the ground, which the disabled person will roll their wheelchair into. It will then rise until it is level with the floor of the van so the wheelchair can enter. There are two kinds: automatic platform lifts that fold and unfold itself, and semi-automatic lifts that have to be unfolded and folded manually by an aide. They can usually lift as much as 600 pounds, making them a perfect choice for persons with heavy motorized wheelchairs. Rotary lifts resemble miniature cranes, and have a hook that can be attached to the wheelchair, allowing it to be swung inside or outside. These lifts can only accommodate weights of as much as 250 pounds, allowing them to be used only with lighter manual wheelchairs. They are also more awkward to install. A more affordable alternative to wheelchair lifts are simple ramps that allow the handicapped person to roll their wheelchair into the van. However, these have many disadvantages, chief among them that they must be manually folded and unfolded, requiring the handicapped person to have an aide with them when using the van. When purchasing wheelchair lifts, there are a number of considerations to keep in mind to ensure that you get the most out of these mobility devices: Are the controls of the lift simple to use? Is the lift compatible with the particular make and model of your wheelchair van as well as the model of chair you're using? If you are buying a platform lift, is the length of the platform long enough to accommodate your wheelchair? Is the weight rating of the lift sufficient to hold your wheelchair? Does the lift have a remote control that allows you to activate it from a distant location so that you don't have to wait to get into the van? What kind of regular maintenance is required to keep the lift in perfect working order? Who will handle the installation of the lift? What are the provisions of the lift's warranty and how will the manufacturer handle problems should they arise? If the wheelchair lifts will be installed in vehicles that the disabled person will use to get to and from their office, there are several financing options that could help defray some or even the entire purchase price. For example, your state Department of Vocational Rehabilitation may offer financial assistance toward adaptive equipment expenses. State-administered grant programs may also be available. Non-profit civic organizations such as the Lion's Club or Kiwanis may also help fund vehicle modification costs. And US veterans may also be able to avail of financing assistance through their veterans' benefits package.
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Bob Lundin is an expert when it comes to New and used wheelchair vans. To find out everything about New and used handicap vans, visit our website at www.mobilitysales.com.
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