What to Know Before Choosing a Lift for Wheelchairs
There are many reasons to add a lift for wheelchairs to your vehicle. Today, there are around 2.7 million wheelchair users in the United States. Maybe you or a loved one is counted among this number—or maybe you simply run a business you'd like to make more handicap accessible.
No matter the reason, when you decide to purchase a wheelchair lift, it's important to arm yourself with all of the information necessary to choose the one that's right for you. What type and size do you need? Do you require a car or bus wheelchair lift?
Whatever your specifications are, there's a wheelchair lift out there for you. Read on to find out what you should know before choosing a lift for wheelchairs for your vehicle.
What Type of Lift Do You Need?
The first and most obvious thing you will need to decide is what type of wheelchair lift you need. This will depend on a number of factors, but one of the biggest will be the type of vehicle you are purchasing the lift for.
For example, a wheelchair lift for a bus will differ from a wheelchair lift for a van. It is a good idea to research which type of lift is most compatible with your vehicle, and then decide which one within this range is right for you.
Aside from vehicle compatibility, there are also wheelchair lifts that have different mechanisms or operate in different ways. Again, it's a good idea to investigate the different kinds that are available. Is an under-the-vehicle or vertical platform lift right for you?
Is It Easy to Install and Operate?
Another thing you should look at is the ease of use and installation. Is the lift easy to install or does it require some expertise? Are the controls simple or complex?
Many suppliers will offer free installation and/or maintenance. This is a great service and can be a real plus to note if you find yourself having to choose between two options.
Is It ADA Compliant?
One big factor you will need to take into consideration is whether the model you pick is an ADA wheelchair lift or not. What does this mean, exactly? The Americans with Disabilities Act (or ADA) is an act that outlines a certain set of standards that facilities, accommodation, and workplaces must comply with.
These standards are regularly updated and you should be sure that whatever supplier you decide to go with is fully ADA compliant and meets all of the necessary requirements.
Choose a Lift for Wheelchairs Today
If you're looking to purchase a lift for wheelchairs and you're still unsure of where to start, we would be happy to help. Our team is dedicated to creating quality products to improve the lives of those with disabilities and we're happy to answer any questions you may have. Get in touch via the form on our website or find a supplier near you today.