Wheelchair Van Conversions for Drivers

Have you heard of wheelchair-accessible vans converted for drivers who are in wheelchairs and unable to use their legs to operate the pedals? Did you even know that some wheelchair users can drive? At All Things Possible, we raise funds to purchase wheelchair vans for those in need. Recently, we’ve had a big uptick in requests for vans for wheelchair drivers, and we want to spread positive information and awareness about this big need in our community and across the nation.

There are three conversions that can take place for a wheelchair user to be able to drive a van. One or more of these can take place to make a van drivable by a wheelchair user. They include hand controls, power transfer seats, and driving from the wheelchair. These conversions offer enhanced mobility for wheelchair users who may not always have a caregiver with them and who are independent enough to drive themselves. Not to mention the empowerment this brings to individuals who wish to regain their independence.

It is important to note that a special license and training is required for an individual to be able to drive without using their legs. The DMV as well as companies like Ilderton Conversions of Charlotte, (who specialize in selling wheelchair vans) have the information on what is required for compliance.

There are significant costs involved in these conversions, which is why we urge you to take action and partner with All Things Possible medical fundraising to help enhance the lives of those adults who use wheelchairs for mobility.

Conversion Capability

Perhaps the most technological conversion aspect of a van for wheelchair drivers is in the hand controls.

They allow drivers to control the gas and brake with ease, using only their hands! Most commonly, drivers will pull a lever toward the steering wheel to accelerate and push it away from the wheel to apply brakes.

Power transfer seats are game changers for individuals who have a little more mobility or have a constant caretaker. This technology allows the driver to move the driver’s seat to the middle of the van and turn it to the side, so they can then lift themselves (requires good upper body strength) and transfer themselves into it. Then, they use the controls on the side of the seat to reposition the driver’s seat back to the front behind the steering wheel.

Finally, for those who wish to drive from their wheelchair, the conversion will include removing the original driver’s seat entirely. This allows individuals to drive their electric wheelchairs up the ramp and secure it in the space where the driver’s seat used to be. This eliminates the need for transfers, and individuals can embrace their independence from the comfort of their own wheelchair. Of course, nobody else can drive the vehicle but the person in the wheelchair because a standard driver’s seat doesn’t exist.

The Cost of Independence

As you would expect, these conversions come at a high price. The modifications it takes to make a van accessible to a wheelchair are significant but add to that making the van drivable by a wheelchair user, and the cost increases substantially. Every dollar invested toward one of these vans is immensely valued, and every donation helps All Things Possible provide individuals with empowering independence, vehicle safety, and so much more. These vans give those adults with disabilities the incredible freedom to live their lives confidently. 

Help Make a Difference

Wheelchair vans have the power to change lives; there is no doubt. Whether a conversion includes hand controls, transfer seats, or removing the driver’s seat completely, these vehicles empower individuals and give them the freedom and independence that they deserve. While the cost may be high, the impact is priceless, and we would love your help impacting these individuals. We urge you to partner with All Things Possible. You can help raise awareness by sharing this blog, volunteering, donating, or getting involved by joining the leadership team. Contact All Things Possible today to take your next step toward changing lives.