A Guide to Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs)
When you’re wheelchair bound, or caring for someone who is, then finding a way of getting from A to B quickly and without issues can often be very tricky, especially if you’re reliant on taxis and lifts from friends. Lifting someone from a wheelchair, into a car and then back again can often pose a mammoth task, especially as you want to do so without causing either of you any pain. Often, just finding the strength to fulfil this task can be hard.
In terms of transport, in the past, those who didn’t have the money to fork out for an often highly priced, specially modified vehicle were faced with the task of hunting down and hiring expensive taxis or minibuses in order to be able to get from one place to another. Luckily though, in recent years, things have vastly improved and a number of doors have been opening, offering new opportunities to those bound to a wheelchair.
A number of companies have emerged, and thanks to government funding, being able to afford wheelchair accessible cars is so much easier now. If you, or anyone you know, is in desperate need of one of these vehicles, below is a mini guide to choosing what’s right for you, and how to start the application process.
What Exactly is a WAV?
A Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (or WAV) is a vehicle that has been modified to allow room for a wheelchair using passenger. They usually feature ramps, which mean you no longer have to put up with the awkward lifting and moving process that many had to deal with in the past. The vehicle may be specially adapted in a way that allows those with limited mobility to use it, through the use of steering aids or modifications to meet your requirements, or it may be a larger vehicle with room to allow a wheelchair user to be chauffeured by a family member, friend or carer. There are vehicles available to meet a whole host of needs.
Hire or Purchase?
The good news is, when it comes to WAVs, there is something to suit every budget and, depending on your circumstances and the amount of funding you are eligible for, many companies who deal in these vehicles allow you to decide whether you’d prefer to either hire the vehicle or buy it outright.
Am I Eligible for Funding?
This is dependent entirely on individual circumstance, but there are government backed funds such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP) which you can apply for to help you pay for essential items such as a wheelchair accessible vehicle. If you are 16-65 and affected by a long-term disability, then you should definitely consider applying for this. If you have a child who requires access to a WAV, then you can usually apply on their behalf for funding too.
What Type of Car Will I Get?
Many companies will actually work with you to choose a make and model you would like, or as close to it as possible, and then arrange for the modifications to be done for you. Don’t worry too much if you think you can’t afford the vehicle you want outright, as many of the companies who sell these vehicles offer manageable monthly payment plans and there are often grants available too.
There are many options available, and a number of companies who have these services on offer. If you do a little research, then you’ll be able to find a vehicle that’s right for you.
