Question: Perhaps you can give me some information - I want to know, if I have a powerchair, can I get behind the wheel to drive a van? I want to be able to drive the chair up a ramp into the van and then over to the driver's area to drive. If you have an answer for me, I will thank you very much.

 

Answer: Van conversions for adaptive driving can involve a range of different equipment options, including side door lifts and ramps, remote controls for automatic doors, power-assisted hand controls and joystick driving systems for steering, accelerating, decelerating and braking.

Getting a van conversion installed, or purchasing or renting a new or used van with adaptive driving equipment, generally involves several steps:

·        Driver assessment (by a Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist): they test for things like functional ability and reaction time to determine what your abilities are, what equipment you may need and whether driver training is required.

·        Checking with your state licensing agency to find out what the local regulations are regarding adaptive driving.

·        Getting estimates from reputable adaptive equipment installers.

·        Proper installation and fitting of the equipment and learning how to use it.

·        Regular equipment checks and maintenance.

The Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists (ADED) - a non-profit association for adaptive driving professionals - offers some information and resources for anyone looking into adaptive driving. You might also want to check out the Adaptive Driving Alliance (ADA), which is a network of professional dealers involved in modifying and selling wheelchair vans, wheelchair lifts, scooter lifts and other adaptive automotive equipment.