Adaptive Driving Options for People who Use Scooters

Author: The Mobility Resource
Published: 2012/08/12 - Updated: 2021/08/10
Category Topic: Private Disability Transport - Academic Publications

Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main

Synopsis: Information regarding mobility vans for a person with disability using a scooter or wheelchair. If you decide to use a scooter, the most pressing challenge will be getting it wherever you need it. Scooter lifts for mobility vans are the ideal solution. They facilitate scooter transport with almost no effort on your part.

Introduction

If you struggle with diminishing mobility, you may be considering a scooter. There are a number of options for customizing mobility vans for scooter users. Scooters are well suited to people who can walk on their own but have distance or speed limitations. They help preserve independence, especially during errands. They also allow people to enjoy more activities and trips out of the house.

Main Content

Mobility Vans Simplify Taking Scooters Along

If you decide to use a scooter, the most pressing challenge will be getting it wherever you need it. Scooter lifts for mobility vans are the ideal solution. They facilitate scooter transport with almost no effort on your part. These particular devices are only for empty scooters; don't use them while seated in your mobility aid.

There are two basic kinds of scooter lifts.

Swing arm lifts:

These attach to the rear of your vehicle. A mechanical arm swings out from the van. You use straps to attach the scooter to the arm. Powered by the van's electrical system, the arm automatically lifts and lowers the scooter. With some swing arm lifts, the user rotates the arm to load and unload the scooter. Others move mechanically.

Platform scooter lifts:

You drive onto the lowered platform, attached to the rear of your van. An arm automatically secures the scooter. Controls allow you to mechanically elevate and lower the platform. Some remain on the van exterior. Others slide inside. You'll have to decide which style you prefer. Interior scooter lifts require removal of the back row of seats. Exterior scooter lifts save interior space. But they expose your scooter to the elements and other potential sources of damage.

Mobility Vans Allow for Easy Entry and Exiting

Another key concern for scooter users may be how to get into and out of the van. Many scooter users are elderly or suffer from arthritis, multiple sclerosis or other problems that limit mobility. In some cases, climbing into and out of a van is painful, difficult or even impossible. Turning Auto Seat systems are the perfect solution.

One or more of the van's seats swivel out of the vehicle. They then lower toward the ground. Easy controls then allow you to move yourself into the van. They work in reverse for getting out. These seating systems eliminate the climbing, twisting, one-legged weight baring and other straining involved in getting into and out of a high vehicle. You can effortlessly enter and exit your van right after effortlessly loading your scooter.

Attribution/Source(s): This quality-reviewed publication was selected for publishing by the editors of Disabled World (DW) due to its relevance to the disability community. Originally authored by The Mobility Resource and published on 2012/08/12, this content may have been edited for style, clarity, or brevity.