Are you looking for a wheelchair or mobility van for yourself or a loved one? Having a strong background knowledge of wheelchair restraints, or “tie-downs” as they are referred to, is important.
Mobility van’s can be pricey. The last thing you want is to purchase one and have to put in additional money in order to have it custom fitted your specific needs.
Here is a brief summary of the three main types of wheelchair restraints for vans: manual, automatic (electronic) and occupant.
Manual Restraints
This system typically consists of 4 securement belts that attach the wheelchair to the vehicle. Manual restraints are easy to use and require low maintenance. When the person and the wheelchair are positioned in the vehicle, another person is needed to strap them in. When the wheelchair occupant wants to exit, another individual is needed as well to undo the restraints. These can be used with a variety of different sized wheelchairs.
Automatic/Electronic Restraints
In an automatic system, an interface bracket is mounted to a wheelchair in correspondence with a base unit receiver on the floor of the vehicle. The wheelchair passenger must maneuver their chair’s bracket to the receiving unit. When the bracket and receiving unit mate, the wheelchair is secure. Electronic release mechanisms allow the wheelchair passenger to secure themselves without additional assistance. Automatic systems require specific wheelchairs for them. The bracket must fit the receiver. They are not interchangeable with other wheelchairs.
Occupant Restraints
Regardless of the type of wheelchair restraint, all passengers must have appropriate lap and shoulder belts. Commonly, aftermarket seatbelts are used for wheelchair passengers. Aftermarket seatbelts can be used for non-wheelchair passengers as well. However be sure to have these devices installed properly and compliant with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
*Some restraint systems come with the required belt.
Searching for a wheelchair van that suits you or your loved one’s mobility needs? Classic Vans, located in the San Francisco Bay Area, has a large selection of new and used mobility vehicles. From full-sized mobility conversion vans to handicapped minivans, Classic Vans has been a trusted name for thirty years.
Browse our selection online or call (866) 370-8222.
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