A wheelchair-accessible vehicle has features that allow a person to drive it easily. It has a side entry, a side exit, and a power ramp. Safety protocols are also included to ensure a driver’s safety. Having these features in a vehicle like the ones at Freedom Motors makes driving it safer for anyone.
Side-Entry Configuration
Side-entry wheelchair-accessible vehicles are a great way to make traveling more convenient and comfortable for those in wheelchairs. Unlike rear-entry vehicles, side-entry vehicles allow wheelchair users to drive from the driver’s seat. This makes it much easier to disembark and board the vehicle, particularly in high-traffic areas. In addition, side-entry vehicles allow wheelchair users to sit in the driver’s seat, which can be especially helpful if the vehicle has a lot of passengers.
Another benefit of side-entry wheelchair-accessible vehicles is their increased storage space. Drivers can enter and exit the vehicle without transferring from the wheelchair, and there is plenty of room in the vehicle for passengers to sit. In addition, side-entry wheelchair-accessible vehicles can accommodate additional equipment, such as sports or camping equipment. They can also be equipped with roof racks for carrying commodes or lifting machines.
Power Ramps
Power ramps for wheelchair-accessible vehicles are essential features that can make getting into and out of the vehicle much simpler. These devices are automatically unfolded and retracted when required, eliminating the need for manual unfolding and folding. They can be easily installed during conversion and operate with remote control.
Power ramps are available in many wheelchair-accessible vehicles, but the best ones are the ones that slide into a pocket built into the vehicle’s floor. This is the most convenient style because it is automated and does not require manual deployment. Pneumatic suspension ramps are also an option; they automatically lower themselves to the ground level without needing manual help. They also include sensors that warn you if the ramp is not level.
Kneel Systems
Knee systems in wheelchair-accessible vehicles provide additional protection for the occupant in a crash. The design of these systems must ensure that the occupant does not become disoriented during the impact. These systems must also be durable and resist water and wear. Moreover, they must have a positive latch design to prevent accidental disconnection.
Knee systems in wheelchair-accessible vehicles are essential for the safety and mobility of the wheelchair user. They help decrease the incline of the wheelchair ramp and fall flush with the curb. These systems can be costly, but they are essential for manual wheelchair users and drivers.
Automated Docking Lock Devices
Automated docking lock devices for wheelchair-accessible vehicles can help make life easier for drivers and passengers with disabilities. These devices can be installed in a wheelchair or a motorized scooter and eliminate the need for straps. These systems are also safe for people in wheelchairs and motorized scooters.
Automated docking lock devices secure a wheelchair to a vehicle’s docking shoe. These devices are installed beneath the wheelchair’s seat and have a power-operated latch mechanism. The vertical arm also has a cable that transmits power to the docking shoe underneath the wheelchair. The cable runs through the docking shoe to prevent the wheelchair from swiveling and twisting, and the wheelchair’s driver or occupant can actuate it.
These devices lock and unlock the wheelchair when it docks at a particular spot on the vehicle’s floor. These systems can be operated manually or by a central control system. A vertical arm mounted beneath the wheelchair seat engages a floor-mounted docking shoe.
Safety Restraints
Choosing the right safety restraints is essential to ensure the safety of a wheelchair user. Many wheelchairs have different restraint systems, but some are more universal than others. Retractable tie-downs are more universal than manual restraints and can accommodate various wheelchair sizes.
Choosing the right restraint system prevents the wheelchair from bouncing or rolling unexpectedly. These restraint systems work for many wheelchairs, but each type is slightly different. You can choose between manual, retractable, or power restraint systems. Manual restraints consist of a four-point tie-down system that locks into the floor system of an accessible vehicle. To use a manual restraint system, the wheelchair user should sit facing forward and fasten a crash-tested seatbelt.
Securement systems must be legibly and permanently marked. The restraints must be placed at least 30 inches from the floor edge, with two anchorages in front and two at the rear. The securement devices should also be secured to the vehicle floor in a manner that does not interfere with passenger movement or pose a danger to the wheelchair user.
