Questions to ask when choosing a WAV

When choosing a WAV (wheelchair access vehicle) it can be a minefield of what the best option or best choice is, so there are things to consider when choosing. Most important of all do not feel pressurised by anyone to make an instant decision, take your time – we, at Mobility Disabled, have over 25 years experience in this sector of the motor trade and we do not earn commission on sales, so we have a NO pressure environment for you to view our WAVs. Although it is ultimately your decision and you will have a number of requirements yourself, there are some considerations to include

What size WAV?

• Where are you going to park it? Will it fit on your drive or in your garage? Think about the space required to use the ramp and/or lift so you can into or get out of the WAV.


• Will it be easy to drive in traffic and on the roads you normally drive on? What sort of routes would you use? Does it have sat nav or connections for your mobile phone?


• What is the size of your wheelchair or mobility scooter? What are the measurements of the person when sat in the wheelchair?


• What other equipment will need when you go out? Where and how can you store this additional equipment?
  How many people plus the wheelchair do you want to carry?

Conversion of the WAV.

• What company converted the WAV? What modifications have they made? Every conversion company is different.


• What are the measurements for the wheelchair space? Does my wheelchair or mobility scooter fit? Where is the wheelchair position – can you talk to others easily?


• How do I secure the wheelchair or scooter? Can I push it up the ramp or do I need some help? Can I manage the straps?


• Does it have a wheelchair lift or ramp? Can I use the wheelchair ramp or lift easily?

How much will the WAV cost now and in the future?

• What is the price? How are you going to pay for it or fund it? What payment methods are accepted?


• What will the insurance cost for the type of cover you require?


• What will the tax cost be? Eligibility for disabled taxation class?


• MOT charges and repairs. Wheelchair lift servicing and repairs


• How do I sell it when it is no longer needed?

Comfort aspects of a WAV

• Can I get into and out of the WAV easily?


• Are the controls suitable for me? Can I use them easily?


• Is there good visibility for the driver, any passengers and the wheelchair user?
  
• How does the WAV drive? Have I test driven on a variety of roads? How did the wheelchair user feel during travel?


• Is there enough space inside for everything needed for a holiday for instance?


• Is the WAV quiet and smooth to drive?


• Does the vehicle have air conditioning?

Environmental Factors

• Will the clean air zones (CAZ) affect me now or in the future? Does the WAV meet this standard?


• Will the ultra low emission zones (ULEZ) affect me now or in the future? Does the WAV meet this standard?


• What is the WAVs CO2 emission figure?


• How far can you travel on a tank of fuel? Conversions with lowered floor involve the modification of the fuel tank, so it may be smaller than the original.

Performance and Safety of your WAV

• What is the Euro NCAP rating? Are there any other special safety features?


• How is the wheelchair secured? How do I use the securing straps?


• How does the WAV drive? How far can you travel on a tank of fuel?


• Does it have a current or new MOT?


• What happens if the WAV breaks down? Does it have manual safety measures to exit safely? How do you get a wheelchair user out in an emergency?



If you have any questions please contact us below