Wheelchairs are beneficial mobility devices for people with physical disability. Unfortunately, their design can be a limiting factor when travelling over long distances using vehicles. Therefore, if you frequently provide transportation to an individual with a mobility condition, you should consider purchasing a wheelchair lift for your vehicle. This type of lifting equipment is constructed to lift a wheelchair and its user into an appropriate van. The installation of this mechanism can reduce the stress associated with preparation for a journey. If you decide to purchase the wheel chair lift, consider these factors to ensure that the best product is selected.

Access Style 

When shopping for a wheelchair lift, it is important to think about the point of access. In simple terms, you can choose to install the mechanism for operation through the side passenger doors or the rear entrance designed for cargo. Both of these options are viable, depending on the configuration of your vehicle. However, not all types of wheelchairs are designed and fabricated for usage in both entry points. Therefore, evaluate and compare the two access styles before selection. If you plan to change vehicles in the near future, consider choosing a lift that can be installed for entry through side and rear doors.

Weight Capacity

The wheelchair lifts in the modern market are designed to withstand heavy usage and harsh conditions. However, the equipment is not infallible, so excess stress will cause accelerated wear of the components and eventual breakdown. Therefore, you should check the weight capacity rating of the lifts that you are interested in before purchase. Ideally, the indicated figure should be larger than the combined weight of the individual with the mobility issues and their wheelchair. You should also consider the possibility of the person changing the wheelchair to a heavier alternative in the future. It is advisable to make a significant overestimation to avoid unexpected complications.

Single vs. Dual Arm

A wheelchair lift can have either single or dual lifting arms to operate the mobility mechanisms. The right choice for your situation will depend on factors like the size of your car, potential loads and even the configuration of your car. The single arm design is favourable because it is compact and will not take up too much interior room in the vehicle. Unfortunately, these will become less stable when handling heavy loads. Dual arm lifts are bulkier, but the mass is distributed to the two supports. This means that this option will provide more stability when handling more cumulative weight.