There are some accessibility options for your vehicle that you may not know about, and that can improve daily convenience and overall life-quality for those with mobility issues.
When it comes to accessibility for those with mobility issues, driving can become challenging. The obstacles don’t end with getting in-and-out of your vehicle and may extend to storing devices during driving or the actual operation of a vehicle. An inability to drive can impact participation and socialization in everyday life, which will affect overall quality of life subsequently. Did you know that mobility devices exist that can resolve these hurdles and put you back in the driver’s seat? Check out some of the latest and greatest equipment that will get you back on the road!
Some accessibility options for your vehicle that you may not know about include:
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Curbside lifts
A Curbside Lift is a great way to get around your neighborhood, and store your scooter or chair with ease. A button-control allows the operator to stash their device inside their vehicle, doing the heavy-lifting for you. As mobility devices become larger, the ability to store them inside a vehicle can be problematic. It is important to tailor the equipment to your specific vehicle and needs.
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Joey lifts
A Joey lift works well for a wide range of vans, from mini to full-size, and allows you to store your mobility device with a hand-held control. A platform rolls-out with access on both sides, with the added feature of securement belts during transports.
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Meridian lifts
Outside Meridian Lifts are easy to operate and these devices lift and store your scooter or chair outside the vehicle. Roll on to the platform, touch the button-pad, and the lift will take care of the heavy-lifting. “Securement” belts (or seat belts) make transports safer and more secure.
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Truck lifts
Truck lifts are unique in that these devices literally move your scooter or chair from your home to the bed of your truck for you. A hand-held device allows you to control the lift and transport with ease.
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Hand controls
Hand controls resolve obstacles that stand in the way of autonomy behind the wheel; check out the hand controls offered that allow for easy operation of your vehicle. It is recommended that individuals adapting to hand controlled driving utilize driving rehab instruction before making a purchase decision.
Talk to Pacific Mobility about outfitting your vehicle with accessibility options.
When considering mobility devices for your car, truck, or van, make sure to work with merchants that stand-behind what they sell. Often times, the best insight into where to find mobility equipment lies in the experiences of other consumers. Before you order, purchase, or agree to anything, make sure you are buying the best, from the best.
Things to look for when buying accessibility options for your vehicle are:
- Reputable vendors. Buy from a trusted mobility device merchant that stands behind what they sell, and that provide support to consumers when making purchase decisions.
- Quality products. Look for quality mobility products and lifts that are made in the US, such as those made by Bruno for Pacific Mobility.
- User-friendly features. Don’t be afraid to ask about user-friendliness, as some devices and options may seem daunting at first. Look for equipment that you can operate easily, and that provides the features you need for optimal satisfaction after installation.
- Positive customer reviews. Read reviews and online feedback to determine the level of customer satisfaction before buying. This gives some insight into the vendor and can provide peace-of-mind for consumers.
- Professional installation. Many mobility devices require professional installation to ensure optimal utility and safety. Look for a company that endorses this practice and that will provide installation services as needed.
- Consumer support. Finally, make sure that you have some way to contact your vendor and receive support related to using your mobility device. It may be easy to garner a sense of whether the company provides adequate support by reading online reviews and customer feedback.
It may also be helpful to discuss potential options and obstacles with your primary care provider before making final decisions. Your doctor will offer solutions to keep you as active and accessible as possible, while also using a standard algorithm to determine least-restrictive levels of care and viable options.
Want to get back on the road and in the driver’s seat? See for yourself which mobility aids can improve your life and enhance your accessibility. Visit the professionals online at Pacific Mobility and find the right device for your car, truck, van, or vehicle today. Expert insight, professional installation, and high-quality products make this a go-to resource for adaptive equipment, mobility devices, and accessibility options, whether you are looking for assistance inside or outside your home.
President, Husband, Father, Grandfather Graduate of UC Davis- Bio Sci Major- Go Aggies! Jeff has extensive experience in all of Pacific Mobility’s products and services, and specializes in accessibility products as well as stairlifts, ceiling lifts and custom wheel chairs. His hobbies include spending time with family, gardening, mountain biking, exercising and off road motorcycle riding.
24 years as Owner/President of Pacific Mobility Center – selling, installing, and servicing stairlifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts, pool lifts, handicap ramping, specialty wheelchairs, scooters, power wheel chairs, and other power mobility devices
Certified Environmental Access Consultant since 2008
Licensed General Contractor since 1998
Certified Aging in Place Specialist since 2016
Board Member for Home Access Professionals
Member of Association of Members of the Accessibility Equipment Industry (AEMA)