If you or a loved one lives with a disability, then you probably know that handicap or wheelchair accessible vans have so many benefits!
Finding a custom wheelchair van that fits your disability can help you gain more freedom and reduce stress in your everyday life. Using a wheelchair or scooter requires planning when it comes to parking situations. Most people don’t know that there are different types of handicap parking spaces.
If you have a mobility van with a ramp or lift, finding a parking spot with enough room can make outings easier.
Accessible Parking Spots for Vans with Side Entry
Many mobility vans have lifts or ramps that operate from the side, allowing wheelchair users a way to get in and out of the vehicle. Additional room is required for wheelchair users with these types of side-entry equipment.
Parking spaces with white striped lines on the side – indicating an “access aisle” – are typically designated for mobility vans. These offer about 96” of extra space for ramps and lifts. Regular cars, even those with a handicap placard, should look for a parking spot designated for those not requiring this additional space. Most regular blue and white handicap spots have a 60” aisle.
Tips for Easier Handicap Parking
- Find a parking spot on the end if possible – the least amount of obstruction from other cars the better.
- Bring an orange road cone. It can be beneficial for keeping other cars from blocking you. It’s also handy when exiting or entering your mobility van requires some time. Other drivers will be better able to see what your doing and respond accordingly.
- Research ahead of time to make sure there’s plenty of handicap accessible parking at your final destination. By law, parking lots should have both regular handicap parking and handicap spots with the additional 96” of space.
Most people with handicap placards aren’t aware that the spaces with the white slanted lines are designated for mobility vans only. If you’re in a situation where you can politely teach them the difference between handicap parking spots and mobility van parking spots, you may be able to help someone in a wheelchair down the road!
Searching for a mobility van for you or a loved one? At Classic Vans, located in the San Francisco Bay area, we have a huge selection of quality new and used wheelchair vans, including full sized luxury vans. Call (866) 370-8222 and a let us pair you with the van you need to make life easier!
Don’t live in California? No problem, ask about our low-cost nationwide van delivery.