Things To Know When Buying Used Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicles (WAVs)
I supposed you are aware that every car has a purpose that’s why manufacturers don’t stop producing more advanced models that suit your needs. I believe that we all have unique preferences so either second-hand or brand-new, we still need to look deeper into something that will amaze us. The same thing goes with wheelchair-accessible vehicles which are specifically designed for passengers with disabilities.
These cars are made for their ease of entering as well as carrying or storing their wheelchairs which usually makes traveling inconvenient for them. They cannot just stay at home for the rest of their lives because they need to go out as well, especially when going to the hospital, getting some fresh air, and other events. Keep in mind that they are not prisoners and they must try to live a normal lifestyle just like other family members.
So if you care about your loved one who is now in a difficult situation because of their physical disabilities, then you should at least check out https://www.southernmobilityvehicles.co.uk/used-wavs/ to learn about these types of transportation in the UK. They are just one of your options when it comes to finding experts in WAVs that can help you if you are interested to buy second-hand ones. Let’s assume that you can also buy brand new models but when the function and accessibility are the same, I guess used ones would be fine so let’s feed you a few tips before buying one.
Budget
The first thing that you have to consider before buying is to check how much money you can produce to purchase a used WAV in the UK. We all know that this could be costly that’s why you have to prepare a large sum if it is possible to apply for a personal loan just to get one, then you may try applying soon. Anyway, that is only one of your options when it comes to preparing the finds but if you have saved enough, then I suggest you buy in cash so that you can avail of better deals.
But for individuals who need more to produce, you have to think of ways how you can find resources. Try checking out what benefits you can avail of, especially if the cause of your loved one’s physical disability is due to an accident. Pretty sure that the party at fault would be willing to shoulder some of the finances.
Once you already have a sufficient budget, then you can now choose what vehicle you will get. These cars are used so you have to make sure that they are in good condition and would be helpful to you and your passenger.
Basic Details
Side-entry means that there is a motorized ramp that can be unfolded from the side of the door and the wheelchair is then placed either in the middle or front of the cabin – look at this to know how it works for others. The driver’s seat is accessible to wheelchair users as well. Up to two wheelchair users and additional passengers can enter through a side door and if you require additional passenger seating, install more seats.
Rear-entry WAVs are designed with doors that have taller, larger openings than a side door. If the wheelchair is very wide or high, pick a rear entry. The majority of rear entry ramps are manual operated and less expensive than automatic power ramps.
There are kneeling mechanisms in some wheelchair vans as well. To make the van level with the curb or less inclined when on a ramp, a kneeling mechanism must be used to lower the suspension. Wheelchair users can enter and leave the automobile more easily thanks to kneeling mechanisms.
Ways to Purchase
By the way, you might want to get a van, and then, you can customize this to be converted as a wheelchair-accessible vehicle. This means that you have to spend on such services as well. You also need to buy materials for the features that you would like to be installed so this process will take some time.
The other option is to get a second-hand WAV and then, you can bring this to the repair shop for modifications. You can ask them to install additional features to make it more advanced or specific things that you prefer for accessibility and convenience.
Car Dealers
Make sure that you are going to deal with reliable car dealers in the UK to avoid problems in the future. It would be a headache if you will purchase from someone who is not licensed to sell such automobiles. Who knows where this vehicle is coming from and what if the registration is fabricated or this was a stolen one?
That is why we need to look for accredited WAV dealers in the UK. In my opinion, you should seek help from experts so that you can easily find the right item for your specific needs. Through their assistance, you can have more options to choose from since they are connected to certified shops that follow strict regulations regarding these types of vehicles.
By the way, if you have plans of purchasing online, then be very careful with whom you are dealing. Learn about their policies and make sure that it is more to your advantage since some of them are not honest with their descriptions or details of the WAV. It could be risky sometimes so know who the dealer is and make sure he is trustworthy.
Conduct an Inspection
It is very important to inspect before paying the WAV. Let’s say that for the basic ones, you can do the checking by yourself but for other parts, it is better if a registered technician or mechanic will do the task. He can prepare a checklist and would know better how to inspect used cars even when we know something since we are the ones driving.
Aside from inspecting the tires, brakes, fluid levels, and cooling systems to name a few. Do not forget to go over the mileage as well. Make sure to conduct an inquiry regarding the registration of this vehicle and if there are reports linked to it.