There are two types of wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) that can be driven by a person who uses a wheelchair: drive-from-wheelchair WAVs and internal-transfer WAVs. See the pros and cons below, based on our research with wheelchair users.
Drive-from-wheelchair WAVs are becoming more common. The driving controls are adapted for you to operate from your wheelchair. Usually this means some form of hand controls, though other solutions are possible.
Find out more with RiDC’s information about specialised car controls.
In a drive-from-wheelchair WAV, you need to be able to:
Most have hands-free entry systems – you push a button on a remote control to open the door and deploy the ramp or lift automatically. There will also be an automatic docking system to secure your wheelchair. All of this will be designed around you and your wheelchair as part of your assessment from an experienced mobility adviser – for example at a Mobility Centre.
This all means that drive-from-wheelchair WAVs are usually a lot more expensive than passenger WAVs.
All features of drive-from WAVs are powered, so you need to be able to use the remote control easily. Check:
Some wheelchair users prefer to transfer to a driving seat because they find it more comfortable or easier to drive. Sometimes it’s necessary to transfer because your wheelchair may not be suitable for driving (see also wheelchairs for WAVs). Using the standard car seat also means that you don’t need to fit a specialist seat belt.
By contrast, an internal-transfer system may not be suitable if you have a specialised seating system in your wheelchair.
WAVs can be adapted to allow you to enter with your wheelchair or scooter (by ramp or lift), secure the wheelchair or scooter in the vehicle, and then transfer to the driving seat. You can replace the standard car seat with one that swivels and slides so that you can transfer into it more easily.
All features of internal-transfer WAVs are powered, so you need to be able to use the remote controls easily.Check:
If you’re going to be using adapted controls, you may need a professional driving assessment and training.
You may need to have dual controls fitted to use when you’re training.
Your local Mobility Centre will be able to carry out the assessment and will also tell you about specialist driving instructors in your area.
Published: 5th March 2020
Source: RiDC