Sales and service
of Lowered Floor Minivans
Acquiring the correct information to answer these questions will require the assistance of professional persons. Of course, your doctor and physical therapist will have input, but the assistance of an adaptive driving evaluator is recommended. A driving evaluator can be contacted through a rehabilitation center near you.
Many major rehabilitation centers conduct complete driver evaluation programs which are certified by their state's department of motor vehicles. This includes a pre-driver evaluation, behind the wheel lessons, and assistance in licensing. Pre-driver evaluation includes testing eyesight, motor control, judgment, and reaction time.
Driving programs stress that a consultation with your physician is necessary to make sure that you are physically and psychologically prepared for the driving experience. If you are evaluated too soon after your injury, there is the danger of recommending too much equipment and, consequently, spending money on adaptive equipment you will not need in the future. After a traumatic experience, such as a spinal cord injury, there is a great deal to re-learn. Don't put too much pressure on yourself too soon, even if you feel that you might be prepared.
Most driver evaluation programs utilize vehicles with hand controls
and steering devices to instruct their clients. Some cars have a Chair Topper® mounted on the roof which mechanically
loads and stores the wheelchair for the driver or passenger. Most programs
also operate a fully modified van for people who drive from their wheelchairs.
This van may have a raised top as well as a lowered floor. It may also have
a Lift-A-Way® or Swing-a-Way®
wheelchair lift with power doors on the side cargo door and a remote control
entry device. Some driving programs are even including the lowered-floor
minivan conversion such as the Braun Entervan®
.
After entering the vehicle, the evaluator can determine if you will
drive from your wheelchair or from a power seat. The power seat base moves
electrically into position next to you so that your transfer may be comfortable
and safe. Generally, if you can transfer, you should drive from the van
seat which is bolted to the floor. If you cannot transfer, an electric wheelchair
tiedown can be added along with special stabilizing belts to secure you
and your wheelchair behind the steering wheel.
There are many different types of driving controls and assistive driving devices. These include hand controls for throttle and brake, extended steering columns to position the wheel at the proper height, lower effort steering and braking, and modified vehicle switches. In a driver training vehicle, it may take a few sessions to fit this equipment to you. Once you have an evaluation from an instructor, you can begin to shop for a vehicle.
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Due to the cost of conversion, the time spent doing your homework will ultimately pay off in savings. Extras, such as middle captain's chairs and front overhead consoles in vans, may go to waste if you purchase them from an auto dealer and then learn that they must be removed to adapt the vehicle.
Your Braun dealer knows that the vehicle you purchase must have a suspension that is heavy enough to accommodate the weight of conversion, yet light enough to give a good ride. A heavy duty electrical system, heavy duty service options and factory-installed power accessories are all important features to purchase on your van. Visit Automotive Innovations before making a vehicle purchase. In addition to knowing which vehicles are most easily modified, they often purchase many vehicles from dealers and know where to shop for the best buys. Some we have demonstrators or pre-owned vans that can be suited to your needs with little modification and purchased for a reasonable price.
Both full-size and minivans come in many shapes and sizes. If you will be driving from your wheelchair, additional questions will arise. You need to decide if you want a lowered floor, a power pan, or a raised top and doors for entry. Because these options may involve removal of the auxiliary gas tank and increasing the overall height of the vehicle, it is best to consult with us before making any decisions.
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In recent years the lowered floor minivan conversion has become available
to disabled motorists. The ten inch lowered floor allows a wheelchair user
access to both the driver's and front passenger's area. This vehicle may
employ a system that lowers it within inches of the ground and then unfolds
a ramp for entry and exit. Lowered floor minivans, like the Braun Entervan® , let you sit in the front passenger position
and see out of the van's windows. These minivans will fit into standard
height garages, but they still require approximately eight feet of access
space - the same as a full size van with a platform lift. A discussion of
the pros and cons of each vehicle with us can be valuable.
The side-mounted lift in a van is the most practical use of space, especially if you are a driver. The rear bench seat may be retained as well as the front passenger seat. The platform style Lift-A-Way® lift require eight feet of access space at the side of the van.
The rotary Swing-A-Way® lift utilizes a
more limited access area of four feet, because you board the lift parallel
to the van. When the rotary platform is stored, the side door is clear of
any mechanism for easy entrance and exit by ambulatory people. A rear post
rotary lift allows the front passenger seat to have full adjustment because
the lift is mounted at the rear of the cargo door.
The rear mounted lift also requires eight feet of space to access the vehicle. If you are riding in the rear of the van, the middle seat can be left in place for an ambulatory passenger.
Rotary lifts cannot be placed in the rear doors of any van, but the
Lift-A-Way® can be used and equipped with
power door operators and a remote control.
You should know how tall you sit in your chair, measuring from head to ground. You should also know the overall length and width of your chair. If possible, use the chair you intend to travel in when you visit your dealer.
These dimensions will help your dealer determine the modifications you need. For example, the door height of a standard full size van is 48 inches, a minivan is about 44 inches. Knowing these heights and your height will tell the dealer whether or not you need a lowered floor or a raised door.
Don't be afraid to ask lots of questions. Remember, it is easier to change at this stage than after the vehicle is built. When you visit the distributor, there should be some vehicles available for you to get into. This is an ever-changing industry, and new products are being introduced every day. We are knowledgeable about today's products. You should certainly ask for references and to examine work that we have done in the past. Ask if we have any customers with a vehicle that is similar to the one you are planning to purchase.
Ask about service and warranty program. How long does the warranty last? Does the warranty include parts and labor? Are they a part of a national dealer network, so you can have warranty done anywhere in case of emergency? Have they, their sales representatives and their technicians attended a Braun sales and service school within the last three years?
This is a big investment, and the best way to make an informed is to be an educated customer. Read about these products and, if possible, attend trade shows in your area.
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A new vehicle, including modifications for your needs, can be an investment of $20,000 to $50,000. In some cases, you may be eligible for assistance. If you are a veteran, contact the VA. Your state's Department of Vocational Rehabilitation or Division of Developmental Services may also provide financial assistance. If you have private insurance, either health or workman's compensation, check your eligibility with your insurance carrier. Many automobile dealers can finance the mobility package along with your vehicle and provide you with a monthly payment plan at competitive interest rates. We may know of other local sources as well.
A doctor's prescription is accepted in most states to exempt the purchase of your adaptive equipment from sales tax. Consult a qualified tax accountant regarding any income tax credits. Major vehicle manufacturers have rebate programs that help pay for modifications.
After you have evaluated all of your options, you are ready for the purchase. A van must be custom-fitted to you, just like your wheelchair. With professional guidance, good evaluation of your personal needs, and research of the adaptive equipment that is available, your van purchase will be a learning experience which will lead you to an even more independent and productive lifestyle.
