More than 50,000 customers have adaptations fitted to their Motability Scheme cars; adaptations can help if you’re finding driving or travelling is becoming more difficult or uncomfortable – from getting in and out of your vehicle to helping you stow your wheelchair or scooter. And it’s the stowage element we’re focusing on in this article.
Indeed, the simplest way to lift your wheelchair or scooter into your car is with a stowage system, such as a boot hoist. A boot hoist adaptation could even offer you an alternative to a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV).
First, though, you need to decide which boot hoist is best for you. This should be straightforward, as there are only two main types: a four-way hoist and a two-way hoist.
Four-Way Hoist
Simply put, a four-way hoist moves four ways- up, down, in and out. If you need to transport a larger wheelchair or scooter, a four-way hoist is the one for you as these hoists can carry more weight than two-way hoists due to the increased movement they allow. It works at the touch of a button, taking the weight of your wheelchair or scooter, helping you maneuver it gently by hand into your car boot.
Two-Way Hoist
A two-way hoist only moves up and down, this means you’ll need to maneuver your product more than you would have to do with a four-way hoist, so it is best suited to those who have a lightweight wheelchair. You’ll need to push the wheelchair into the boot, then ensure it’s secure using tie-downs.
Things to consider
Bear in mind; you may have to fold one or more of your rear seats down, or even remove the seat to get your wheelchair or scooter into your car. Therefore, if you frequently need to carry rear-seat passengers, a boot hoist might not be the best option for you. Additionally, due to the complexity of boot hoists, you must ask your adaptation installer to clarify how they work.
Questions?
If you feel you could benefit from a boot hoist, then you’ll undoubtedly have a few questions you’ll want to ask before you come to a decision. We spoke to the Motability Scheme’s adaptations team to answer your most pressing questions.
Why choose a boot hoist at the start of the lease?
“It’s important to note that not all adaptations work with all cars. So, it’s best to choose a boot hoist at the start of your lease so that you can ensure it works with your preferred car. Your adaptations installer or dealer should be able to assist with this.”
“It’s also the most cost-effective way to arrange adaptations. What’s more, the hoist is covered by a three-year warranty and comes with a restraint and lifting bracket.”
How do you obtain a boot hoist via a car dealer?
“When you go into the car dealership to place your application for your new vehicle, you should be asked by the Motability Scheme specialist if you require any assistance with driving, access, or stowage. It’s at this point that the car dealer can select an adaptation installer and place a boot hoist onto the application.”
Can you transfer boot hoists between Scheme cars?
“Yes – as long as the hoist is transferred within three and a half years from the original fitment. However, if the hoist is older than three and a half years, you’ll have to select a new one. It’s also important to note that a hoist can only be transferred once.”
“And just like when you choose a boot hoist for the first time, you’ll have to ensure that your existing hoist works with your new car should you wish to transfer it.”
Can you get a boot hoist part way through a current lease?
“Yes, absolutely, you can – but please be aware this will be more expensive.”
Whether installing a boot hoist at the time of ordering your new car, or transferring it when you renew your lease, we aim to make it as inexpensive as possible for you to get the best solution for your needs.
Further Information
There are more than 100 adaptation installers who supply the Motability Scheme. You can find information about the adaptations they provide and their contact details by clicking here.
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