Tag Archives: mobility van

Driving with Paralysis

 The first step in the process of learning to drive with paralysis is to get a thorough evaluation from a qualified driver trainer to determine your basic driving set-up, specific modifications, and driving equipment. An evaluation includes vision screening and assesses muscle strength, flexibility and range of motion; coordination and reaction time; judgment and decision making; and ability to drive with adaptive equipment.

To find a qualified evaluator, contact us today (508-697-6006) we maintain a list of certified specialists throughout the New England area.

As for getting a drivers license, states require a valid learner’s permit or driver’s license to receive an on-the-road evaluation. You cannot be denied the opportunity to apply for a permit or license because you have a disability, but you may receive a restricted license, based on the use of adaptive devices.

Once you get the go-ahead from the evaluation, it’s time to think about the kinds of vehicles that suit your abilities and needs. Selecting a vehicle for modification requires collaboration with the evaluator and a qualified vehicle modification dealer. The following questions can help with vehicle selection and whether you can adapt a car you already own.

Does the necessary adaptive equipment require a van, or will a passenger car suffice (will you be driving from a wheelchair or can you transfer to the car seat? If you can transfer in and drive a car your choices are much wider.
Can the vehicle accommodate the equipment that needs to be installed?
Will there be enough space to accommodate other passengers once the vehicle is modified?
Is there adequate parking space at home and at work for the vehicle and for loading/unloading a wheelchair or walker?

If a third party is paying for the vehicle, adaptive devices, or modification costs, find out if there are any limitations or restrictions on what is covered. Always get a written statement on what a funding agency will pay before making your purchase.

The cost of modifying a vehicle varies greatly. A new vehicle modified with adaptive equipment can cost from $20,000 to $80,000. Therefore, it pays to investigate public and private opportunities for financial assistance.

There are programs that help pay part or all of the cost of vehicle modification, depending on the cause and nature of the disability. Contact your state’s department of Vocational Rehabilitation or another agency that provides vocational services, and, if appropriate, the Department of Veterans Affairs. Also, consider the following:

Many nonprofit associations that advocate for individuals with disabilities have grant programs that help pay for adaptive devices.
If you have private health insurance or workers’ compensation, you may be covered for adaptive devices and vehicle modification. Check with your insurance carrier.
Many manufacturers have rebate or reimbursement plans for modified vehicles.
Some states waive the sales tax for adaptive devices if you have a doctor’s prescription for their use.

You may be eligible for savings when submitting your federal income tax return. Check with a qualified tax consultant to find out if the cost of your adaptive devices will help you qualify for a medical deduction.

Find a qualified dealer to modify your vehicle. Ask questions, check credentials and references. Do they work with evaluators? Will they look at your vehicle before you purchase it? Do they require a prescription from a physician or other driver evaluation specialist? Do they provide training on how to use the equipment? Do they provide service? What is the cost? How long will it take to do the work? What is the warranty?

Rhode Island Mobility Van Resources

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Vocational Rehabilitation Program

What is the Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program?
The Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program is the public state and federally funded program that assists individuals with disabilities to choose, prepare for, obtain and maintain employment. Employment being the successful outcome of services provided through the public vocational rehabilitation program. It is expected that individuals with disabilities who apply for services are interested in becoming employed and understand that this is the focus of the VR program.

Who is Eligible for VR Services?

Do you want to work?
Do you have a condition that limits your job opportunities?
To be eligible for vocational rehabilitation services, you must – 1) have a physical, intellectual or emotional impairment which is a substantial barrier to employment, and 2) require vocational rehabilitation services to prepare for, secure, retain, or regain employment, and 3) be able to benefit from vocational rehabilitation services in terms of an employment outcome. If you are receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your vocational rehabilitation office will presume that you are eligible for vocational rehabilitation services.

How Do You Obtain Services Through the Vocational Rehabilitation Program?

Individuals with disabilities must first apply for the VR program and be determined eligible before services can be provided. Individuals with significant disabilities are presumed eligible for the program if an application is completed and there is documentation of disability. All applicants for the VR program are encouraged to present documentation of their disability and/or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Insurance (SSI) to speed up the eligibility process.

Employment Plan
(Individualized Plan for Employment)

The eligible individual with a disability and a Qualified Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor will work together to develop an employment plan called the Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE). The Employment Plan considers the individual’s unique strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, skills, abilities, preferences, capabilities, interests, and values, as well as the barriers to employment. The Employment Plan identifies the employment goal that the individual has chosen, the time it is expected to reach the goal, the services that the individual chooses as necessary to reach the employment goal, and how the services will be provided. Some of the services may be provided directly by the VR Counselor, others may be available through other public sources such as netWORKri (One Stop Career Centers), and others may be purchased with funds provided by the VR agency. The individual may develop the Employment Plan with the assistance of the VR Counselor, another individual, or by him or herself. The VR Counselor is always available to provide assistance in this process, and a Qualified Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor who works for the public VR program must approve the Employment Plan before any services are provided through the VR agency. The partnership between each individual with a disability and their Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor is a key component in the Vocational Rehabilitation process.

What Are Some of the Services that can be Included in an Employment Plan?

Vocational rehabilitation services that may be included in an Employment Plan are:

Counseling and Guidance to help plan vocational goals and services
Transition Services from School to Career
Rehabilitation Technology Services
Assistive Technology Services
Diagnostic Evaluations
College or Vocational Training
Job Training and Job Supports
Job Development and Placement Services
Vehicle Modifications
Housing Modifications
Post-Employment Services

What Are Some Services After an Employment Goal is Achieved?

Employment is the successful outcome for the individual with a disability and the VR program. Once employed, however, the VR agency may assist with post-employment services to assist the individual to retain or advance in employment.

If you are interested in applying for services, please fill out and sign the completed Application (Espanol) and return to Intake, Office of Rehabilitation Services, 40 Fountain Street, Providence, RI 02903.

Rehabilitation Services

Office of Rehabilitation Services
The Office of Rehabilitation Services helps people with disabilities become employed and live independently in the community. They provide a variety of programs and services to empower individuals with disabilities to prepare for, obtain and maintain employment and economic self-sufficiency.

Vocational Rehabilitation
The focus of the Vocational Rehabilitation Program is to help people with disabilities prepare for, obtain and maintain employment. Individuals who apply for this program are interested in becoming employed. If a person receives Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and they are interested in working, they are assumed to be eligible for this program.

Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired
The Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired offers a variety of training and adjustment services for individuals who are blind or who have significant visual impairments. The goal is to help them become independent, active, and self-sufficient members of their community. Services are available for children and adults.

Disability Determination Services
The Disability Determination Services unit determines the eligibility for children and adults with disabilities who are applying for cash benefits from the federal Social Security Administration’s programs – Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Assistive Technology Access Partnership
The Office of Rehabilitation Services administers the Assistive Technology Access Partnership which can help individuals with disabilities get assistive technology devices and services.

Links

Office of Rehabilitation Services
- (401) 421-7005 (voice)
-  (401) 421-7016 (TDD)

Vocational Rehabilitation Program
Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Disability Determination Services
Assistive Technology Access Partnership

Rhode Island Disability Grants Handicap Funding RI

Buying a wheelchair van can be easier through handicap grants, loans for the disabled, mobility finance programs, government assistance, and other handicap funding sources. Get some or all the cost funded with Rhode Island disability grants for a wheelchair van or vehicle conversion. Delivery of handicap vans in Rhode Island or nationwide is fast and convenient.

Disability Grants in Rhode Island (RI)
The grants listed below may or may not provide funding for handicap vans to individuals. Please contact your local Rhode Island grant provider for a detailed list of requirements.

TechACCESS of Rhode Island 
TechACCESS provides a list of resources that can help disabled persons living in Rhode Island purchase a handicap van with supplemental funding.

How to Apply for Rhode Island Grants or Mobility Funding
Help us build the largest Rhode Island directory of handicap grants, loans, and other mobility funding sources by contributing your favorite mobility funding programs. Rhode Island residents can find disability grants, wheelchair van loans, or other financing options to help pay for a wheelchair van by contacting one or several disabled funding programs. We will helps you find a used wheelchair van for sale and gladly accept all funding assistance programs to ensure your handicap needs are met.

Transfer Seats for Minivans

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The mobility industry converts a wide selection of various minivans, which B&D Independence is proud to support with direct-mount seat bases.
These include:

Chrysler Town & Country
Dodge Grand Caravan
Honda Odyssey
Toyota Sienna
Volkswagen Routan
Including seat bases for older minivans conversions such as Ford Freestar, Ford Winstar and Chevy Venture.

Leadership 51
The L51 is our most popular model. Designed for lowered minivans, this 6-Way Transfer Seat Base is available for both driver and passenger sides. The 6-Way Transfer Seat moves forward and back, raises up and down, and swivels.

Travel Horizontal: 20”
Travel Vertical: 6 3/8”
Swivel: 100º
Weight Capacity: 500 lbs.

Chrysler Town & Country with Braun Entervan Conversion
Honda Odyssey with VMI Conversion
Chrysler Town & Country with Braun Entervan Extra Tall Conversion
Dimensions:

Length: 33 1/2
Width: 14 1/4
Down Height: 6 1/8 to 8 7/8

Chrysler Town & Country with VMI Conversion
Toyota Sienna with Braun Rampvan Conversion
Honda Odyssey with Braun Entervan Conversion

Leadership 53
The L53 is a 4-Way Transfer Seat for the driver or passenger side. It has similar features as the L51 as it moves forward and back and swivels. This 4-Way Transfer Seat does not raise up and down.

Travel Horizontal: 20”
Swivel: 100º
Weight Capacity: 500 lbs.

Dimensions:

Length: 33 1/2
Width: 14 1/4
Down Height: 6 1/8 to 7 5/8

Leadership 75
The L75 is a 4-Way Transfer Seat for Chrysler, Dodge and Toyota Mini Vans that have been converted for rear entry or not had the floor altered. This 4-Way Transfer Seat Base does not raise up and down.

Travel Horizontal: 35” to 37”
Swivel: 100º
Weight Capacity: 500 lbs.

Dimensions:

Length: 55 1/4
Width: 10 1/2
Down Height: 3 5/8 to 5 5/8

Transfer Seats for Full Size Vans
We’ve built our business on producing transfer seat bases that can be adapted to fit just about any make and model of minivan or full size van. The mobility industry has converted the major full size van makes and models for many years.
These are:

Ford Econoline Series
GMC Series
Dodge Series
Our Products

Leadership 41
The L41 is a 6-Way Transfer Seat for the driver side. It fits non-lowered floor full size vans from 1996 to present. Designed to bolt to the floor without extra drilling, it fits over the airbag sensor located under the driver’s seat. The 6-Way Transfer Seat moves forward and back, raises up and down, and swivels.

Travel Horizontal: 16”
Travel Vertical: 8”
Swivel: 100º
Weight Capacity: 500 lbs.

Dimensions:

Length: 40 1/2
Width: 17
Down Height: 6 7/8 to 7 3/4

Leadership 71
The L71 is a 6-Way Transfer Seat Base for multiple applications but used primarily for the passenger side of both converted and non-converted full size vans. The L71 may also be used in vans older than 1996, where there is no airbag sensor that needs to be negotiated. Available in both driver and passenger position, the L71 is very customizable. (See Full Size Van Options below). The 6-Way Transfer Seat moves forward and back, raises up and down, and swivels.

Travel Horizontal: Driver 14 3/8” Passenger12 3/8” (Both Driver and Passenger L71 travel 3 further back when in the full up position)
Travel Vertical: 6 1/2”
Swivel: 100º
Weight Capacity: 500 lbs.

Dimensions

Length: Driver 28 1/2” Passenger 26 1/2”
Width: 16 1/4
Down Height: 6 1/4

 L71  
Full Size Van Options (L41, L71 and LS51D Models) 180 Degree Swivel: Allow rotation of the seat 180 degrees, so that the user has greater flexibility in how they transfer into and out of the seat.

Hand Held Pendant: Our standard Easy Access switchbox with an extended harness and shorter switches provides the user with an increased range of where they place their controller.

Extended Travel: Rails and slide gear bars can be customized to offer even further travel options. Discuss this option with your Dealer if you’re in need of increased forward and back travel.

Trim Package: A set of three covers that match the OEM interior of your vehicle. Providing OEM aesthetic quality and made with ABS material, these covers keep the moving mechanisms of the base concealed and protected (Available on model LS51 only.)

Mobility transfer seats give wheelchair users the freedom to drive in a comfortable, fully adjustable drivers or passengers seat.

Ricon Slide-Away Platform Wheelchair Lift

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The Ricon Slide-Away platform wheelchair lift features a revolutionary design which offers the strength of a dual post hydraulic lift, but the flexibility of a single post lift.

When using the Slide-Away handicap lift, the sliding second tower travels toward the front of the full-size mobility van. When not in use, it stows toward the rear of the vehicle, which leaves the side door unobstructed. This means able-bodied passengers can get in and out easily, and the front passenger seat can retain normal functionality.

Ricon Slide-Away™ mobility platform lifts represent the most innovative design the industry has seen for a long time. Strength of a dual post lift combined with the flexibility of a single post lift translates to a better user experience. Slide-Away wheelchair lifts are rated with a 600 pound capacity, and can be retrofitted with an 800 pound installation kit.

Specifications
ST00

Stationary Frame Width – 45″
Folded Height – 46″
Installation Depth – 21.5″
Usable Platform Width – 30″
Usable Platform Length – 42″
Floor To Ground Travel – 30″
Traveling Frame Width – 37.5″
Clear Entry Width – 31″
Stowed Arms Width – 19.3″
Installed Depth – 7″

ST01

Stationary Frame Width – 45″
Folded Height – 52″
Installation Depth – 21.5″
Usable Platform Width – 30″
Usable Platform Length – 48″
Floor To Ground Travel – 30″
Traveling Frame Width – 37.5″
Clear Entry Width – 31″
Stowed Arms Width – 19.3″
Installed Depth – 7″

Standard Features

Unobstructed Access Through Side Doors
Allows Full Use of Frong Passenger Seat
Innovative Dual-Post Hydraulic Lift Design
Two-Step Manual Back-Up System

Optional Features

800 Pound Installation Kit Available
Remote Control
Power Swing Door Operators
Power Sliding Door Operators
Different Dimensions for Models ST00 and ST01

Tips on purchasing your first mobility van or wheelchair accessible vehicles

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You’re a first time wheelchair van buyer, and like many other customers have questions about handicap vans, or how or where they are built, and what kind of prices to expect. This portion of our website will assist you to find answers to your questions and provide creative mobility product solutions. We encourage you to gather as much information as possible, but the best education of needs and options is done through a consultation with a Mobility Consultant. Our staff knows the inside and out of Adaptive Equipment and can custom fit and recommend the perfect wheelchair accessible vehicle transportation for friends, family, and most importantly you!

There are many different options and possibilities with handicap accessible vehicles; the most common option is a wheelchair accessible minivan. A wheelchair accessible van is modified to allow a wheelchair or scooter user to drive their mobility equipment directly into the handicap accessible vehicle with no assistance. Featuring a 10-11″ dropped floor for easy entry and exist (with headroom up to 58″!) and removable front seats that allow the user to ride safely in the front passenger area or even drive from their wheelchair.

TIPS TO BUYING A WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE VEHICLE:

Create a list of features you want and need, so you can accurately access the cost differences.
Take into consideration how you’re going to transport the whole family.
Consider the adaptive equipment that needs to be transported. Will it change over time?
What is the age of the user and caregivers?
Have a budget. Check with a Mobility Consultant to obtain all information including 10-year financing options and rebates available.
Talk with a Certified Mobility Consultant to explain features and benefits, and guide you through the wheelchair van conversion buying process.
Purchasing your new or used wheelchair van from Ability Center provides a piece-of-mind because we are a Certified Mobility Dealer that is part of NMEDA and is QAP certified.
Rent and try before you buy. Ability Center will apply your handicap van rental costs to the purchase of a new or previously-owned handicap accessible vehicle.
Buy for today, and tomorrow! It’s a big investment that should last you many years.

HERE ARE SOME OF THE MOST COMMON QUESTIONS AND THEIR ANSWERS:

Do you convert the mobility vans there? No. Vans with new ramp conversions are converted in three locations: Indiana, Michigan, and Arizona. We obtain them complete. We install external or internal lifts, and any adaptive equipment necessary to custom fit the driver to their van.
What vans are being converted? Currently, the manufacturers are converting the Dodge/Chrysler minivans, Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey Chevrolet/Buick minivans, and Ford E-Series vans & Transit Connects.
I want to carry two wheelchairs. Can I? Most handicap van conversions make carrying two wheelchairs a breeze, but that depends on the style of chair or scooter. Talk to our Mobility Specialist they’ll know what will work for you.
I can’t make it down to your store. Can you come out? Yes. We love in-home demonstrations. It gives you the chance to have your whole family there and try the new or used handicap van in your own environment. Just pick a van, and we’ll bring it out to you at no-charge.
How do I secure my wheelchair? Depending on the model, there are several ways to secure your equipment. Three typical ways are: 4-piont manual strapping system that comes with every van; optional 4-point retractable straps; and the EZ-Lock bracket system. Please check with your Mobility Specialist to see if a bracket designed for your equipment. There are some popular wheelchairs on the market that do not have a bracket.
I want to save more money. What do you have? Besides taking advantage of any and all rebates out there, consider a manual ramp version or the very popular used van with a new conversion. A pre-owned conversion van may be the way to go if you are considering a budget. You can save thousands on a pre-owned van.
Why is the price set the way it is? The final price is a combined cost of the van AND the mobility conversion. What will determine the overall price is what you want out of the van and options (i.e.: Toyota Sienna Limited versus Dodge Grand Caravan SE). The conversions are priced very closely and do not generally affect overall price.
Can I trade in my non-converted vehicle? YES! Bring it by and we’ll give you the best deal on non-converted or converted vehicles. We’ll take the stress out of selling the vehicle on the market.
Can I try the van first? Absolutely you can test drive the vehicle to see if it going to work for you and your family!
I want to buy my van at the dealer; they’ve been nice to me. Depending on the manufacturer and conversion, that could be done. You will not take physical possession of the van, but your relationship with them will be continued. Before you do, talk to our Mobility Specialists and they’ll let you know if that van can be purchased through your favorite dealer. We have a great working relationship with most dealers, so we know how to work with the auto dealers in your town.
Do you offer financing for handicap vans? Yes. We work with banks that finance mobility vans up to 10 years, or on terms that fit your needs. Our rates are comparable to what is on the market.
Can I use my own bank? Certainly. But be cautious, you must let them know that it is a van converted for wheelchair access. Some private or national banks will not finance the total cost of the mobility van, and only finance up to 120% of the value of the van prior to conversion. Call your Mobility Specialist before you go to your bank, it may be helpful to assist you with your bank by letting them know of your intentions.
Does Medicare pay for vans? No. Due to Medicare guidelines and policy the vehicle conversion is a “deluxe item” only to be used outside the home, for which that equipment Medicare does not deem “medically necessary.”
Who will assist with funds for me? Depending on where you live, your state could have funds set aside for financial assistance. These funds are available upon application and approval of your case and if the state has funds available. Sometimes this can take up to 6 months or longer. Call our Mobility Specialist; they will know where to direct you to start the process.
I am a disabled Veteran. How do I obtain a mobility van? If the VA has provided you with a wheelchair or scooter, you are entitled to a lift for your existing vehicle or a mobility conversion to transport that equipment. Depending on your diagnosis or if your disability is service connected or not, either will be provided. Call us; we’ll work with your local VA to help you start the process. We are very experienced with Veterans policy and procedures.
Can I convert my own van? The handicap vans we offer are complete, but you could convert your own. This is a very rare circumstance, but if it absolutely needs to be done your vehicle needs to fit the manufacturer’s criteria for converting a customer-owned van. In just about all cases, because of the time and additional expenses, it is more beneficial and cost effective to the customer to purchase a van post-converted to take advantage of rebates. Conversions cannot be financed on their own.