Category Archives: Wheelchair Vans

Wheelchair van and mobility needs for New England – Boston, MA

Have You Entered the E-Venture Contest Yet?

Most customers test drive a wheelchair accessible vehicle before purchasing it.

Some lucky customers will have a chance to test drive a brand new VMI Dodge Grand Caravan Northstar E for 30 days… FOR FREE!

Will it be you? See contest details below:

About The Contest

Win a VMI Northstar E wheelchair van to use free for 30 Days.
VMI gives you $300 to spend on an adventure of the winners choice
Receive a free digital camera for you to document your time with the Northstar E then keep the video camera for yourself.
Monthly winners will drawn throughout the year.

Important Dates

Start Date: May 15, 2014
End Date: Dec. 31, 2014
First Draw: July, 2014
Last Draw: Dec, 2014

Terms & Conditions
The VMI Northstar E-venture campaign is active from May 15, 2014 to December 31, 2014.

Winner will be drawn and announced on a monthly basis from July, 2014 to December, 2014. Winner will receive 30-days free use of a Dodge Grand Caravan with the VMI Northstar E Conversion; no exceptions will be made.

Winners must abide by the rental policies of their local dealer and state. . .
In accordance with rental agreements, insurance coverage for liability, collision and comprehensive insurance must cover full vehicle reimbursement for the term of use.
Must comply with daily/monthly mileage-use limits
Must maintain standard of care for vehicle as stated in rental agreement
Must return vehicle in accordance with rental agreement
Additional conditions may apply
Winners will have up to 120 days from the date of notification to begin their 30-day free use period.
The maximum amount allowable for the E-venture is $300, which is based on $75/person for a family of four.
Payment for the E-venture will be dependent upon the event selected
Payment may be provided in the form of a pre-paid credit card
VMI may purchase tickets/passes for the adventure (e.g. amusement park, sporting event, concert, etc.) for the winner
VMI may provide reimbursement to winner for receipts submitted
A free digital video camera will be provided for documenting your adventures and day-to-day mobility. The digital camera is a gift for winners to keep.
Winners will be required to share a minimum of five minutes of video footage per week to be posted on VMI corporate and dealer websites and social pages. Failure to provide video footage will be cause for termination of 30-day free van-use period and full reimbursement of any funds provided for the E-venture.
The first drawing will be held in July, 2014, and one lucky winner will be drawn every month through the end of the year, December 2014.
Winners will be required to sign an agreement of terms and conditions.

No purchase necessary. Valid in the United States only. Limit one entry per household. Entries may be made at VMI’s Website or by calling 855-VMI VANS.

If the winner purchases a VMI wheelchair van prior to being selected as a winner of the Northstar E-venture, they can elect to be reimbursed $1800 (estimated value of winnings). Reimbursement will be coordinated between VMI and the winner directly if the vehicle was purchased prior to the winner being announced.

Offer is not valid on any added accessories. Winner is responsible for the payment of applicable taxes and registration fees. Prize must be claimed within 120 days of being notified of winning and is non-transferable. No exceptions will be made.

Additional Terms & Conditions may apply.

The Benefits of Owning a Wheelchair Van

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Even though wheelchair-accessible minivans can offer greater independence, many wheelchair users are afraid to switch from their car to a mobility vehicle. For some, a car is more fun and the idea of driving a minivan is not all that appealing. Cars also offer a bit of a challenge and are generally less expensive than wheelchair vans, so there is often hesitation to make the change.

Unfortunately, wheelchair users and their caretakers usually have to deal with the hassles of transfers and chair loading when they use a car to get around. This can cause back or shoulder pain for those having to make the transfer and after a while, this can be quite physically taxing.

For those dealing with these daily struggles or those who want to prevent them, switching to a wheelchair-accessible van becomes an easy choice. Take a look at the following benefits and see why you might want to buy a wheelchair van.

Reduced Pain and Fatigue
When a car is the main vehicle used to transport someone in a wheelchair, pain and fatigue can be a serious problem caused by frequent seat transfers. It’s hard to get close enough to a car to make a smooth transfer and if the height of the car seat doesn’t match that of the wheelchair, it can put a lot of stress on the shoulders, back and neck. What could result is joint and muscle pain and eventually arthritis and tendinitis. If getting into your vehicle is too much work or too painful, you might give up doing the things you love to do after a while.

Fortunately, a wheelchair-accessible van can give you your freedom back so you can do all of your favorite things. Because a wheelchair van uses a ramp for entry, there are no transfers from outside of the vehicle and you don’t have to separately load your chair. Once inside the vehicle, the transfer from your wheelchair to the driver or passenger position is much easier since you can pull right up to the seat. Plus, some wheelchair vans even let you drive or sit in the front from your wheelchair, completely removing any need to transfer.

Greater Freedom and Independence
While many people may argue driving a minivan isn’t the “coolest” thing you can do, sometimes other things are more important than image. A mobility van may not always be sporty, fun or stylish, but it offers maximum freedom and independence. Actually getting where you need to go without too much assistance or a physical struggle is more important than how you are able to do it.

Helpful Financing Options
A converted van will most likely cost several thousand dollars more than a standard car, as the conversion price plus higher fuel and insurance costs increase your total spend. While this might deter many people from making the switch to a van, it’s important to consider what you get for the price – greater health, happiness and overall well-being.

Even though a wheelchair-accessible van may seem out of reach, there are programs available that can help you pay for a mobility vehicle. Government programs like Worker’s Compensation, Medicaid Waivers, Vocational Rehabilitation and those with the VA may all be able to help with funding. There are also charities or nonprofits that may be able to help provide fund raising opportunities and some banks or Independent Living Centers offer extended loans or lower interest rates. Used vehicles are an option as well, as many dealers sell old rental vans after a year of use.

People will always have a reason to avoid buying a mobility van, but it might be worth serious consideration. Think about your quality of life and whether easier mobility may improve it. If so, it might be time to make the change.

Is the exhaust system on your Wheelchair Van falling apart?

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Is the exhaust system on your Wheelchair Van falling apart?

Exhaust System Repairs on Wheelchair Vans – Repair work on rusted Exhaust Systems

Exhaust systems are one of those things you don’t notice (and shouldn’t have to). So long as it’s quiet and it does its job of routing the engine exhaust outside of the vehicle, you probably never even think about preventative maintenance for it. But, that only happens because the exhaust system on your wheelchair van has been properly designed and engineered to be reliable and worry-free.

We can repair or just take a look at how your wheelchair van exhaust system looks in your BraunAbility, Eldorado, Vantage Mobility or even your rollex van.

Wheelchair van exhaust systems are custom constructed and mounted – to make sure that they’re reliable and trouble-free its best to have them inspected at a full service mobility facility.

Even if the exhaust systems are made with stainless steel, the same material the original vehicle manufacturers (Dodge, Chrysler, Toyota & Honda) use, the connection can still corrode and rust.

Keep in mind that any wheelchair van with a lowered floor will have reduced ground clearance and an exhaust system that’s lower than your average vehicle. We encourage you to come in and have your van inspected every year to you get the best, most reliable, most durable ride possible.

Description of Wheelchair Van Exhaust System Repair
Located on the underside of your vehicle, the exhaust system is responsible for collecting and directing harmful emissions away from the vehicle, reducing the amount of pollutants released into the environment, and minimizing engine exhaust noise and force. The exhaust system is composed of pipes and tubing designed to streamline vehicle operation while maximizing vehicle performance and efficiency. Engines produce dangerous gases as a byproduct of the combustion process. The exhaust manifold collects the emissions from the engine and funnels the gases through the front pipe to the catalytic converter. The converter transforms these harmful gases, like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide, into less harmful ones, like oxygen, nitrogen, water vapor, and carbon dioxide. The muffler helps cancel out the noise created by the engine. The muffler dissipates sound waves while the tailpipe releases the converted gases into the atmosphere.

Benefits of Exhaust System Preventative Maintenance and Repair
Depending upon the problem, the exhaust system can affect both your vehicle’s performance and your ability to drive. For these reasons, it is important to keep current with maintenance intervals on your exhaust system. A repair service or inspection may be impending if you hear excessively loud noises during acceleration. These noises may be a sign of holes or cracks somewhere in the exhaust system. Rattling noises when starting the vehicle or excessive idling may be a sign of failed or broken hangers. If you feel drowsiness while driving, this may be a serious sign that fumes are leaking through the vents and into the cabin interior. Sharp odors are also signs that noxious fumes are leaking into the vehicle. Signs of rust or cracks in any component of your exhaust system indicate corrosion. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek a service sooner than later. Maintaining routine exhaust system services will help keep all your exhaust components, like the exhaust manifold, front pipe, downpipe, catalytic converter, and muffler, working efficiently. Routine maintenance on your exhaust system will save you from having to replace the entire exhaust system down the road.

VMi New England proudly offers Exhaust System Repair solutions for wheelchair van customers in Bridgewater, MA – East Bridgewater, MA – West Bridgewater, MA – Brockton, MA – Taunton, MA – Middleboro, MA – Berkley, MA – Raynham, MA – Canton, MA – Stoughton, MA – Randolph, MA, and all other surrounding areas in New England.

Veterans!! Don’t Miss Your Chance To Win A Free 2015 Toyota Sienna Wheelchair Van

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VMI’s Star Spangled Salute
The 2nd Annual Operation Independence Star Spangled Salute Veteran Contest has now been launched by VMI (Vantage Mobility International) alongside Toyota Motor Sales USA. Enter for your chance to win a brand new 2015 Toyota Sienna with a VMI Access 360 in-floor ramp conversion system.

Eligibility
Only U.S. disabled veterans are eligible to win the free mobility van. If you are a disabled veteran or would like to enter the contest on a veteran’s behalf, simply fill out the form. Only one-entry per household.

Contest Details

Registrar to win a 2015 Toyota VMI Wheelchair Van
Entries must be submitted by 11/09/14
Winner announced Veterans Day, 11/11/14

Important Dates

04/02/2014 – VMI will begin accepting The Star Spangled Salute entries
11/09/2014 – The Star Spangled Salute Entries End
11/11/2014 – VMI will draw and announce The Star Spangled Salute on Veterans Day
12/31/2014 – The Star Spangled Salute Winner MUST claim prize before December 31, 2014

Terms and Conditions:
The 2014 Operation Independence Star Spangled Salute campaign is valid from April 2, 2014 to November 9, 2014 for all Disabled U.S. Veterans.

Winner will be randomly drawn and announced on November 11, 2014 and must show proof of military service. Winner will receive any 2015 Toyota Sienna with the VMI Northstar Conversion; no exceptions will be made.

No purchase necessary. Valid in the United States only. Limit one entry per household. Entries may be made at www.vans4vets.com or by calling 800-488-6148.

If the winner already purchased their Toyota VMI Northstar conversion between April 2, 2014 and November 10, 2014 – they can elect to be reimbursed for their out of pocket cost of the wheelchair accessible Toyota VMI Northstar minivan by December 31, 2014. Reimbursement will be coordinated between VMI and the winner directly if the vehicle was purchased prior to the winner being announced.

Campaign is not valid on any added accessories. Winner is responsible for the payment of applicable taxes and registration fees. Prize must be claimed by December 31, 2014 and is non-transferable. No exceptions will be made.

How to Choose the Right Mobility Vehicle for You

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With several mobility vehicle options available, how do you know which one is going to be the best fit for you?

Most vehicles can be modified with hand controls, foot pedals and adaptive equipment to make driving easier for someone who has limited mobility. While those modifications help you drive, they don’t actually help you get into the vehicle. Picking the right mobility vehicle should start with entry.

When you use a wheelchair to get around, it’s important you have a vehicle that allows you to get in and out in the most convenient way possible. If you have good upper-body strength and can’t stand the thought of driving a van, you may be able to get by using a sedan or coupe – at least for a little while. If you use a large power chair that won’t fit in the back seat of a car or have no one to help you get it there even if it could, a full-size or minivan might be more appropriate.

To find out the differences between mobility vehicles so you can pick the right one for you, consider the benefits and disadvantages of each type below.

Sedans and Coupes
Having a sedan or coupe usually means you have to transfer from your wheelchair to the car seat, which can put a lot of strain on your arms and shoulders – or those of your caregiver. When you think about a long-term solution, having to transfer and load a wheelchair for many years may not be practical. Not only that, but if the weather isn’t ideal (snow, rain, excessive heat), this all becomes even more difficult. Standard cars can have motorized lifts or platforms attached to them, but those are generally just for loading a wheelchair in the back or trunk and don’t help with your transfer.

While cars might not be the most practical solution for all wheelchair users, many people still choose them because they are more stylish than a van and tend to be less expensive. The cost of the vehicle with gas is generally less on an unconverted sedan or coupe than a converted van. Plus, if you already own a car, getting assistive equipment is cheaper than buying a brand new mobility vehicle.

SUVs
SUVs are similar to sedans and coupes in that they usually require a transfer from the wheelchair to the car seat. That means they don’t work for wheelchair users without much upper-body strength or strong caregivers, especially since SUVs sit higher and the transfer involves more lifting. SUVs also don’t have a lot of interior space and may not fit larger wheelchairs – even in the trunk.

One of the major benefits of having an accessible SUV is the All-Wheel Drive feature, which makes driving in inclement weather a little bit safer, especially when hand controls are used.

Minivans
Wheelchair-accessible minivans are one of the most practical options for someone with limited mobility. Converted minivans usually come with a ramp system and automatic sliding door to make entry and exit into the vehicle easy – without having to leave your wheelchair. This makes getting in and out much quicker and puts almost no stress on the body of the wheelchair user or caregiver. In addition, some wheelchair-accessible minivans offer different seating options so you can sit in the front and avoid feeling like cargo.

Converted minivans are one of the most convenient options, as they are large enough to fit a wheelchair user, but not so large they may be hard to drive and park for if you have limited mobility. While these might be the perfect solution for many wheelchair users, some people don’t like the idea of driving a minivan and you always have to park with enough space on the side to lower the ramp.

Full-Size Vans
Full-size mobility vans are a great option for larger wheelchair users or those in heavy power chairs. While these vehicles offer the most space, having a full-size van also usually means you use a lift, which takes up space inside the vehicle and may rattle around when you drive. Lift operation may also take longer than that of a ramp and often requires the assistance of another person. Having a lift, however, does make loading and unloading possible without having to transfer from the wheelchair.

While each type of mobility vehicle has its perks and drawbacks, it’s important to find the one that works best for you. It is critical to find a reliable wheelchair-accessible vehicle or adaptive equipment manufacturer so you get a product that will last. If you need additional assistance in determining which option is ideal for you, talk to an authorized mobility dealer and ask for a demo of the vehicles that interest you.