If you’re permanently confined to a wheelchair, you’ll probably want to purchase a wheelchair-accessible vehicle to ensure proper mobility and freedom. Converted minivans tend to work best thanks to their accommodating interiors and wide doors – you can even choose between side-entry conversion and rear-entry conversion.
Choosing a wheelchair-accessible vehicle with rear or side entry can be a struggle since options have their own pros and cons. Here are four reasons why you might want to go with rear entry.
Moreover, if you are still doubtful, it could be beneficial to check out a service website such as https://www.freedommotors.com/all-vehicles/ or contact a professional technician who can provide you with proper guidance. Car brands like Kia, Toyota, Chevrolet, etc., could also be modified to install a rear-entry ramp for easy wheelchair access.
- More Convenient Parking
Parking can be a real pain when you’re in a side-entry wheelchair-accessible van. Since you need plenty of space to the side to get in and out, you can’t simply slip into a standard parking space. Rear-entry models are more convenient. Because you exit from the rear, you can park in any spot without having to search for the disabled parking area.
- Better Ground Clearance
A rear-entry van will be raised at the back to make space for the ramp, which provides plenty of ground clearance. In contrast, side-entry models ride lower, which can make going over any bumps or up any inclines next to impossible.
- Easy Entering and Exiting
Even if you’re parking in an empty lot with no obstructions, rear-entry models are still more convenient since you only need to ride or push a wheelchair up the ramp. You’re then right in the passenger compartment, facing forwards and ready to go. With a side-entry, you need to make several turns to get into position.
- Low Cost
Wheelchair-accessible vehicles are always going to cost more than unconverted models, but you can cut down on those costs by choosing a rear-entry model. Because less of the original vehicle needs to be converted, the process is a lot more cost-effective. Better yet, the entry ramp itself will cost less.