Important Things to Consider When Buying Wheelchair Accessible Vans

Posted on February 20, 2012

One of the most important investments you can make if you have a disability and use a wheelchair is buying a wheelchair accessible van. These handicap vans are designed to help you regain a sense of lost freedom and to help make traveling and running errands a lot less stressful. The selections of wheelchair vans that disabled individuals can choose from now are numerous. Gone are the days of only having one style of vehicle to choose from. You can now choose full size vans, minivans, and other types of vehicles to convert. While having tons of great options is definitely a good thing, it can also be overwhelming if you are not sure what to look for in a good mobility vehicle.

The first thing you need to do when looking into wheelchair accessible vans is to decide what type of vehicle best matches the transportation needs you have. For example, if you have a family that travels with you a lot, then you might want to consider getting a full size van in order to have adequate space for passengers and cargo. If the only people riding in the vehicle are you and your spouse, then a stylish minivan is probably a better and more cost effective option. You will also need to set a budget for how much money you can spend. This will help you narrow down your options as you will seek to find a vehicle that is within your price range that still has at least some of the options you need or want in your vehicle. Continue reading →

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More Options in Handicap Vans than Ever Before

Posted on January 17, 2012

Once upon a time, handicap vans were rather utilitarian vehicles. Moreover, they were large, cumbersome and enormously expensive. While these full-size vehicles might have been viable options for hospitals and care centers, they were not well suited to the needs of individuals. However, handicap vans have changed considerably since those early years and if you haven’t considered your options in some time, there’s a lot to explore.

More Than Full Size Vans

For those in need of handicap vans, you’ll find that you have far more options in terms of vehicles than ever before. While there are still full-size handicap vans out there, you’re not limited to these options alone. You can find a wide range of minivans on the market, from some of the world’s top ranked automakers. You’ll find handicap vans from Honda, Toyota, Chrysler and others as well.

Minivans offer some significant advantages over full-size vans. For example, if you have ever tried to park a full-size van in a handicap parking spot, you know just how hard they are to handle. However, minivans are much more easily maneuvered. In addition to being easier to drive and handle on the road, modern handicap vans are also easier to get in and out of in your wheelchair. You no longer have to make use of a wheelchair lift (though these are still available). Wheelchair ramps make entering and exiting your van a snap.

Other Options

In addition to being available in a smaller size and with a ramp rather than a wheelchair lift, you’ll find that handicap vans also come with other features. Transfer seats, wheelchair securement systems and even driver hand controls can ensure that you are able to meet your needs and find a van that fits your lifestyle, as well.

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Why Consider Wheelchair Van Rentals?

Posted on December 15, 2011

Wheelchair vans provide vital mobility for individuals with physical handicaps. However, there are times when it is not possible to use a personal mobility vehicle. In many instances, wheelchair van rentals can be an excellent option. They provide all the mobility of a personal vehicle for those traveling, as well as for many other situations.

When might you be able to use wheelchair van rentals? If you have family or friends flying in to visit and they require mobility equipment, a rental wheelchair van can be an excellent option. The right mobility dealer will even deliver the van to the airport for those flying in, which adds immense convenience.

Of course, you don’t have to be a traveler to benefit from a rental van. For instance, those considering buying their own handicap van can make significant use of these options. Buying a wheelchair van is a big step and you certainly want to make sure that you make an informed buying decision. With wheelchair van rentals, you can “try before you buy”, giving you the chance to ensure you are getting the right model for your needs, as well as the right mobility equipment for your specific situation. You’ll be able to compare options such as wheelchair ramps and lifts, consider transfer seats and even get a look at vehicle hand controls, wheelchair restraint systems and other options.

As you can see, wheelchair van rentals are immensely beneficial for a range of different people. Here at Apple Mobility, we believe in offering the highest quality rentals – all models are low-mileage, lowered floor modern wheelchair vans that feature the best in technology. Call us today to find out what we can do to meet your needs and help ensure you or your loved one has the mobility equipment required.

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Wheelchair Vans – Convenience and Safety for Those with Physical Disabilities

Posted on May 23, 2011

Transportation has long been an issue for those with physical disabilities. Being tied to a wheelchair does not exactly lend itself to travel convenience. However, modern wheelchair vans can offer quite a few advantages and can make travel not only possible, but a joy. What do these vans offer that makes travel so simplified? Actually, there are quite a few innovations to be found here.

One of the first things that’s of benefit is the lowered floor. This makes it possible to use a sliding (or powered) ramp to enter and exit through the sliding side door, rather than using a wheelchair lift. Of course, wheelchair lifts can also be installed if that’s your preference. With a lowered floor, those in wheelchairs also gain greater maneuverability within the van.

Wheelchair vans also feature advanced safety equipment today. State of the art wheelchair tie-downs ensure that your chair stays put while the van is in motion. Other locking systems are also available that help securely lock the wheels of your chair in place on the floor of the van.

If you have the desire to get back behind the wheel, you’ll find that modern vans can be outfitted with steering wheel hand controls. These take the gas and brake pedals, and put the controls for each on the steering column. Even those with reduced hand strength can use these simple, effective tools. The independence and freedom that comes from being able to drive on your own can once again be yours.

Finally, you’ll also find that modern wheelchair accessible vans are also equipped with transfer seats. The automatic, fingertip controls allow you to enter and exit your wheelchair very simply, with no fuss and no hassle. As you can see, there is quite a bit to be gained with this new generation of vehicles.

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Handicap Vans Offer Freedom and Independence without Sacrifice

Posted on May 23, 2011

In the past, individuals with physical handicaps had to sacrifice a lot to be able to travel. Before handicap vans were available, they often remained tied to the home. Even when special mobility vehicles first came on the scene, they weren’t that much better. However, today’s mobility vehicles offer some significant advantages and can make sacrifice in the name of mobility a thing of the past.

Today’s mobility vehicles offer features that weren’t dreamed of even just a few years ago. For instance, many vans on the market today feature a power kneeling system that lowers the rear suspension on the van. This reduces the entry height at the side, ensuring that those in wheelchairs can easily enter and exit. In addition, handicap vans today also feature advanced wheelchair lifts when side access is not wanted. These lifts feature a wide range of different capabilities, from immensely powerful yet silent motors to unique flush-folding designs to maximize space.

Customizable floor plans are another feature that can be found with these modern vans. In the past, customization was limited and interior space was at a premium. That’s no longer the case. Today, handicap accessible vans offer immense customization possibilities, allowing those in wheelchairs to ride in almost any position that they find preferable. They can even take the driver’s seat if the van is equipped with steering wheel hand controls.

Some wheelchair vans even come equipped with luxury upgrades, such as DVD systems, high-end stereos, custom lighting and quite a bit more. Obviously, those with physical disabilities have far more options today, and much greater freedom than ever before. Finally, those in the market for a quality handicap van will find some of the world’s top brands available with wheelchair van conversions, from Dodge to Toyota and even the popular Honda Odyssey. With options like these, anyone can find the perfect mobility vehicle for their needs.

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Choosing the Right Wheelchair Van with Apple Mobility

Posted on May 16, 2011

All too often, a disabled person will have to face the frustrations of having to depend on others each time they need transportation. While they may have plenty of family members or other loved ones who are willing to provide them transportation, they are still dealing with a great loss of freedom. Whether you are handicapped or you are shopping for a loved one that is, a wheelchair van can be a great way to restore that sense of freedom since transportation will no longer have to come from elsewhere.

For those shopping in the Tennessee and Kentucky area, Apple Mobility can provide options for both new and used wheelchair vans for sale. The wheelchair van conversions from Apple Mobility can provide numerous options in order to tailor each vehicle to the individual needs of the customer.

Whether it is finding the right wheelchair lift or choosing options for conversion such as hand controls and transfer seats, you will be able to find the right options for you. In addition, you will be able to choose from full sized or minivans for your wheelchair van conversion, so that you can choose the vehicle that will provide you with the space and the drivability that you need from your new vehicle. You will be able to make choices to ensure that your new van has everything you need for complete mobility and independence.

For disabled persons, there is no reason that they cannot enjoy the freedom of mobility. They do not have to keep depending on loved ones to provide them with transportation. Instead, choosing a wheelchair van that includes all the needed equipment is a simple way to gain back your freedom. Apple Mobility offers both new and used wheelchair van options to guarantee that there is product for any budget.

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