Which Wheel Chair Vans Are Right For Me?
With so many chassis and conversion choices, choosing the right BraunAbility wheel chair van can be a little confusing. While most people choose their wheelchair vehicles based on chassis preference alone, keep in mind that a number of factors will play a role in determining which chassis is best for wheelchair and scooter users. Use this guide and the dimensions below as a reference, but remember: the best way to see which wheel chair van will work is to visit your nearest BraunAbility Center.
Infloor or Foldout Van Ramps?
Both van ramp styles have their benefits, and how you use your vehicle will determine which is best for you. The Infloor Ramp retracts into the floor itself, leaving the doorway open - this may be important if you frequently travel with ambulatory passengers. With the ramp stored below the floor you do lose a bit of headroom, which may be an issue for taller wheelchair users. The Foldout Ramp may be a good choice for taller individuals, or if you do not require ambulatory access through the sliding door. Simple manual operation is also a helpful feature of the Foldout Ramp. To determine which van ramps will work best for you, discuss the pros and cons of each system with your Ability Specialist. Please note the Infloor ramp is only available on Toyota chassis.
Manual or Power Wheelchair?
The type of van ramp you select – Foldout or Infloor – will affect the slope of the ramp. This could be a consideration for manual wheelchair users with limited upper body strength. For power chair users, the length and turning radius are important to take into account - each will affect how well you can maneuver inside the van.
Where Will You Ride in the Van?
With BraunAbility's removable seating, you have the option of driving from your chair, riding in the front passenger position, or in the center of the van. The dimensions of your chair and the turning radius will influence your options here. Also, if you are able to transfer, you can choose a dealer-installed power seat base for the driver or passenger seat.
Your Measurements
Knowing the dimensions of your wheelchair is critical to the selection process. Before you visit your BraunAbility Center, take a moment to measure:
HEIGHT: measure from the floor to the top of your head while sitting in your chair.
LENGTH: measure your wheelchair from front to back, taking into account your feet and footrests, baskets, medical equipment, and any other protrusions.
WIDTH: measure your wheelchair from side to side at the widest point, paying attention to arm rests or other protrusions above floor level.
Compare these dimensions with the chart below, and you will get a rough idea of which conversion and which chassis you should consider. Keep in mind, however, that the tape measure does not tell the whole story – there is no substitute for trying out a wheelchair vehicle at your BraunAbility Center.
The Bottom Line
By now you've realized that choosing wheel chair vans isn't a one-size-fits-all proposition. We cannot stress enough the importance of visiting your BraunAbility Center before making any decisions. With the help of a trained Ability Specialist, you'll be able to try out several wheelchair vehicles and zero in on the chassis and features that will work best for you. The BraunAbility minivan you select will play a crucial role in your mobility, and it's important to take the time necessary to make an informed decision.
