Choosing Car Features

A Handicap Accessible Rental Van Helps You Stay Active While Using A Wheelchair Or Scooter

If you're recovering from an injury and you need to use a wheelchair or scooter for several weeks, you'll soon find it's a challenge to stay mobile. Cars can be difficult to transfer in and out of depending on the model. You can call a medical transport company to take you to doctor's appointments, but you may have to find other ways to go to the store, attend church, or visit friends. A good solution is to rent a handicap-accessible van. Here are some things to know about handicap-accessible rental vans.

Rent A Van For The Day Or Longer

If you're tired of being stuck at home, you could rent an accessible van just for the day so you can get out of the house with your spouse or friend. If you'll need a wheelchair for a few weeks, you might want to rent the van for an entire month so you'll be able to leave the house when you want. 

Check With Your Insurance Agent

When you rent a handicap-accessible van, you'll probably need to show your driver's license and proof of insurance. Since someone else will drive the van, ask ahead if the van needs to be rented in their name and through their insurance. Also, call your insurance first to make sure your policy covers handicap van rentals.

Ask About The Van Details

Handicap accessible rental vans can handle most sizes of wheelchairs and scooters, but they may need to take seats out in advance if your scooter is long enough counting permanent attachments on the front or back. Accessible vans usually have lowered floors and ramps for getting in the side or back door.

When you reserve your van, learn the details of the van and provide the measurements of your wheelchair or scooter to make sure you're matched with the right van. Also, let the rental company know your weight and the weight of the scooter.

Book Your Van In Advance

Just like any vehicle rental, it's good to reserve your van in advance, especially around holidays. You might be able to get a van at the last minute, but at certain times of the year, the rental company might book up. If you live in a big city or tourist area, it may be harder to get a last-minute rental during peak vacation times or during the holidays when people want to get out and visit with family.


Share