Accessing a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle: what you need to know

If you’re considering a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) then there are a few key factors you need to consider.

First and foremost is whether you, and your carers, are able to safely access the WAV and secure your wheelchair within the vehicle. All WAVs will be fitted with tie-down devices to secure the wheelchair in place and either a ramp or lift, but the design of these items can vary a lot; both between WAVs and conversion companies.

To help demonstrate these differences, this short film highlights WAV access and tie-down solutions in action and also provides tips and advice from some of our converters.

Depending on the original vehicle used for the conversion and the WAV supplier doing the conversion, there are a number of factors that can help make access easier. Lowered floor; longer ramps; powered ramps; bi-fold two piece ramps; winches – powered and manual – can all help make accessing a WAV a little easier.

Of course, nothing beats an actual demonstration of a WAV and it really is the only way to really tell if a WAV will suit your needs. We understand that ensuring safe and easy access is critical to your decision and that’s why all our suppliers offer a free, no-obligation demonstration at your home. Please do take advantage of this service, and see as many vehicles as you need to enable you to make the right choice for your needs.

To find out more about accessing a WAV, the differences between WAVs, visit our WAV overview section.

Related articles:

New film shows how vehicles are converted for wheelchair users

“It has changed my life”: Sophie’s story

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