Ask people with disabilities—when purchasing a handicap or accessible van—size matters. The full-sized van is a good option for those with a large family, those who travel often, those with additional equipment and accessories, those who need to tow large loads, or big or tall passengers or drivers.
Most minivans do not have roof modifications so you don’t have as much interior space. Roomy full-size vans gain space by raising the roof, lowering the floor or both, and also have the advantage of more power and load carrying capacity.
Full-sized van:
- Its weight-carrying capacity is significantly more than a minivan’s. It can hold the weight of a power wheelchair and even accommodate two individuals in wheelchairs.
- It offers a lowered floor for the center, passenger or driver position; raised roof, raised doors; lifts and adaptive driving aids.
- A raised roof makes it easy for someone to enter the van seated in a wheelchair or for a caretaker to tend to them or walk in and out of the entrance.
- Doors are raised in conjunction with a roof to enable a person in a wheelchair to enter without having to bend over or have a caretaker tilt the wheelchair back.
- Larger wheelchairs or motorized wheelchairs require floor-lowering or roof-raising modifications that a full-size van allows.
Plan for tomorrow: If your condition may worsen over time, purchase or lease a full-size van for today’s needs and those of your future.
Deal with experienced mobility professionals that understand your situation, preferably a dealership with NMEDA membership and QAP – Quality Assurance Program accreditation.
The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) is an advocate for mobility and accessibility for drivers with disabilities. If you need help with converting or buying a handicap accessible car, truck or van, please consider one of our mobility equipment dealers.