gett ing a wheelch air into a car - ridc · gett ing a wheelch air into a car 2013. the information...
TRANSCRIPT
A guide for older and disabled people
Getting a wheelchair into acar
2013
The information contained in this guide is correct at the time of goingto print (June 2013). It will be reviewed every two years. See ourwebsite for any changes since printing.
Rica is a charity that researches and publishes independentinformation on products and services for older and disabled people.
Unit G03 The Wenlock50–52 Wharf RoadLondon N1 7EUTel 020 7427 2460Fax 020 7427 2468Textphone 020 7427 2469Email [email protected]
3
This guide describes what is available tohelp transport a wheelchair or scooter in a car.
In the first part we describe the kinds ofsolution you can get, to help you choosethe right one for you. In the second part wegive some detailed information aboutcurrently available products.
Finally we give some generalinformation about driving with a disabilityand where to go for more help.
This guide covers:n ramps which help in getting a
wheelchair or scooter into the bootn hoists and lifts which lift a wheelchair
or scooter into the boot of a vehiclen stowage systems which transfer a
manual wheelchair into the back of avehicle or onto the roof
n vehicles which allow users to travel intheir wheelchair
n other ways of loading a wheelchairincluding trailers and racks.
Whatever type of equipment you want, it is worth talking to a Mobility Centre (see page 28) about the alternatives. Some centres have hoists and otherequipment you can try out. Some also carry out assessments to see what kind ofequipment may suit you. Talk to a fewsuppliers too – tell them about your car,your wheelchair and your disability.
ABOUT THE OPTIONS
Which type? 2
Ramps 3
Hoists and lifts 4
Stowage systems 6
Wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs) 7
Other solutions 8
Choosing and fitting 9
Safety 11
ABOUT THE PRODUCTS
Hoists 12
Lifts 16
Stowage systems 17
MORE INFORMATION
Finance 22
The law 26
Useful organisations 28
Getting awheelchair intoa carA guide for older and disabled people
About this guide Contents
Note: Some of the products listed in thisguide can also be used with mobility scooters.
4
Which type?There are four main options which can help make it easier to transport awheelchair. Use the tips to decide which is best for you.
WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE VEHICLE Page 9n use with manual or power chairn entry by ramp or liftn remain in chairn driver and passenger types available
STOWAGE SYSTEM Page 8n use with manual or lightweight electric
wheelchairn transfer from wheelchair to seatn wheelchair stored on roof, in boot or in back
HOIST OR LIFT Page 6n use with manual chair, power chair or scootern need to walk to your seat, or have a helpern wheelchair stored in boot
RAMP Page 5n use with manual chair, power chair or scootern need to walk to your seat, or have a helpern wheelchair stored in bootn ramps can be portable
OTHER SOLUTIONS Page 10n trailers, racks and bagsn need to walk to your seat, or have a helper
5
Portable ramps are carried in the boot andhook on the back of the vehicle. You pushthe wheelchair up the ramp, or run it upunder its own power if it is electric. You canfit an electric winch to your vehicle to help.
Ramps are a (comparatively) cheap wayof getting a wheelchair into a car if youhave the dexterity and a large enoughvehicle. They are widely available fromadaptation suppliers. To make them easierto carry, many fold in half or are telescopic.Some have carrying handles so that theycan be carried fairly easily by an ablebodied person.
Unless you have someone to help you at all times, you will need to be able to getthe ramp out and put it in position, and put it away afterwards. You also need to be able to make your way round to thedriver’s seat once your wheelchair has been stowed.
Check that there is enough room to getthe ramp in the car easily when thewheelchair is loaded. Ramps need to besecure. Some have pins which slot intolocating holes drilled into the vehicle floor.This is recommended. Also make sure theramp is secured for the journey.
The ramps have sides which help keepthe wheelchair in line. For wheelchairs youcan use two narrow ‘channel ramps’ (seetop right). Make sure the channels are wideenough to allow the castors to turn. If youhave a three-wheeled scooter you need awide ramp (see picture) or three channelramps. Look for a ramp which is wideenough to take the wheels easily. Checkthat the side guards are high enough to
stop the chair from falling and that they donot catch the underside of the chair whenyou are pushing it up.
Ramps often need to be quite long – sothat they aren’t too steep. You need tohave enough room behind your car for thewhole length of the ramp, plus the lengthof the wheelchair.
Ramps
Folding channel ramps. From about £300
Telescopic ramps. About £100–£500
Wide ramp. From about £200–£400
6
You can use a hoist to lift a wheelchair orscooter into a car. Some hoists aredesigned for lighter manual wheelchairsand others for powered wheelchairs andscooters. Hoists for lighter chairs areusually two-way hoists. They lift the chairup and down by power but you push thechair by hand to swing it into the car. Four-way hoists use power to swing thewheelchair into the car as well as to lift itup and down. You may need a four-wayhoist if your scooter or wheelchair isheavy. You might also find it easier onroads with steep cambers or hills – youdon’t have to push it up into the boot.
Some hoists can be fitted to almost anyvehicle and others are made for largervehicles such as estates, 4x4s or MPVs.
Using a hoistYou will probably need to use both handsto use the hoist. You also need to be ableto stand without much support while youare hooking on and lifting the wheelchair.
You may have to fold or dismantle thechair before you lift it, especially if youhave a small car or a large or heavywheelchair or scooter.
There are different ways of attachingthe hoist to the wheelchair. Some hoistshave open hooks and others use hookswhich close. If you have limited grip ordexterity, you may find that closed hooksare more awkward to use. Open hooks areeasier but can come off when the liftingcord is slack. If the hook has a spring, try itout – see whether you need both hands, orif you find your fingers get caught easily.You need to use both hands for somehoists – one to hold it in the right place tostop the hooks falling loose, and the otherto take up the tension with the controlunit. This may be difficult to do standing ifyou have poor balance. Nearly all suppliersprovide a range of hooks, so discuss whatyou need with them before you buy andmake sure you try all the functions.
Hoists and lifts
Four-way hoist from Brig-Ayd, £1,530Two-way hoist from Autochair £650
7
Most hoists have hand held control units.Some are attached by wires but others arecordless. On a few hoists, the control isfixed to the hoist’s arm or base, whichmeans you can hold on for support whileyou are using it. Some people find theseeasier to use than a hand held control.Most suppliers have a choice of switchesand should be able to find something tosuit you. Try the control before you buy.
On some hoists, you have to remove thelifting arm when the wheelchair is stowedin the boot.
If you are travelling without yourwheelchair, some hoists allow you toremove the swinging arm to get it out ofthe way, leaving more room for luggage.The removable parts can be heavy,especially on heavier-duty hoists. Somecannot be taken out of the car because thelifting cords are permanently threadedthrough them.
Information about currently availablehoists is given in the tables on pages 14–17.
LIFTSYou can also use a platform lift to load anunoccupied wheelchair or scooter into theboot. You bring the platform out of theboot under power, push or drive thewheelchair on and secure it and thentransfer it back into the boot.
This may be easier than a hoist, becauseyou don’t need to fold or dismantle thewheelchair or scooter. You also don’t needthe same strength or dexterity to load thewheelchair, and you can secure thewheelchair to the platform before loading.
Platform lifts are generally used forlarger wheelchairs and scooters and theyneed quite a large load space. The bootneeds to be at least 120cm wide, and atleast 70cm deep. In some cars you mayhave to remove the back seats.
You also need the same amount ofroom behind the vehicle to load thewheelchair onto the lift platform.
Information about some platform lifts is given on page 18.
Control unit Platform lift from Alfred Bekker, £1,998
8
These systems make it possible to stow amanual wheelchair in the car (boot or backseat area) or on the roof after you havetransferred onto your seat. You don’t needhelp to do this, and you don’t need to beable to walk round the car.
Most can be fitted to either the driver’sor the passenger’s side of the car. The RoofSpider (page 22) can pick up a wheelchairfrom both sides of the car so you canalternate between driving and travelling as a passenger.
Once you have transferred into the seatyou use a switch to bring the hoistmechanism to the door. You hook thewheelchair on by hand. The hoist then liftsthe chair on to the roof or transfers it tothe back of the car and secures it safely.
You have to attach the wheelchair tothe hoist. Some are easier than others(with some rear-loading systems you justneed to position the wheelchair in the rightplace), but for all of them you need to beable to twist into position to do this.
With a rooftop system the boot of yourcar remains free to carry other luggage.However, they do increase the height ofthe car, and some need significantheadroom to stow the wheelchair (so theycan’t be used in indoor car parks forexample). You can see how muchheadroom they each need on pages19– 23.
Most rooftop systems carry thewheelchair in a box. With others the chairis exposed to the weather. Rooftopsystems can be fitted to most cars withoutany modification.
Boot-loading systems are slightly lessflexible in that the boot has to be largeenough, and the right shape. Systems thatstow the wheelchair in the rear seat areacan be fitted to a limited range of vehicles,and require considerable modification.
Information about stowage systems isgiven on pages 19– 23.
Stowage systems
AbiLoader, available from Steering Developments, from £9,300 fitted (see page 19)
9
Specialist firms convert MPVs, vans andother vehicles so that you can get in andtravel in your wheelchair. If you travel as apassenger you usually sit behind the frontrow of seats, but some designs allow youto sit beside the driver.
Drive from WAVs are designed so thatyou drive from your wheelchair. They canbe fitted with a wide range of hand andother controls – this will be done as part ofthe conversion, which will be tailored tosuit you and your wheelchair. A few WAVsare designed so you transfer to the driver’sseat once you are inside.
WAVs either have a ramp or a lift. Alllifts are powered but some ramps aredeployed by hand – you will need help withthis. If you use a ramp, a winch can befitted to help get you in (only suitable ifsomeone helps you, as you won’t be ableto attach the winch yourself). All drive-from wheelchair WAVs are designed to beused without help so the doors open andthe ramp unfolds at a touch of a button.
The number of passengers a WAV cancarry depends on the base vehicle and the
conversion. Some carry just the driver anda passenger in a wheelchair, but some willcarry five or more additional passengers.Some WAVs have folding or removablerear seats that can be used when awheelchair is not being carried.
You go in at the rear or the side of thevehicle. Side-entry WAVs can be easier foron-street parking (because you don’t needso much room behind, and you don’t haveto get your wheelchair into the road), butyou may not be able to use them in all carparks. The InFront Doblo has a speciallyadapted front door that lets you enterdirectly into the front passenger space.
See our Wheelchair accessible vehiclesguide (see page 35) for more informationor contact converters (see our Mobilityaddress list) for detailed information on thevehicles they supply. Always try out a WAVyou are considering – converters will bringa demonstration vehicle to you. TheWheelchair Accessible Vehicles ConvertersAssociation (see page 34) requires itsmembers to provide this service and tomeet other service standards.
WAVs
I Can from Sirus Automotivefrom £33,295
InFront Doblo from Wilson Healyfrom £19,995
(WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE VEHICLES)
RACKS AND TRAILERS Racks and trailers let you carry awheelchair without dismantling or foldingit, while keeping the boot free.
Trailers can easily carry large itemsincluding mobility scooters. A full cardriving licence will let you tow one if theweight of the trailer and its load is under750kg. However, they will make reversingand parking difficult.
The Chairack (from G Bernard Elliot) isan alternative to a roof rack. It is designedto load a folded manual wheelchair ontothe back of a car without you having to liftit. The frame clamps on to the towing ballusing its own locking mechanism. Thenyou fit the wheelchair front castors on tothe rack and lever the wheelchair up usingthe rack’s handle.
In both cases, you may need a lightingboard and number plate if the one fitted toyour vehicle is obscured.
L.I.T.E. BAGThe L.I.T.E. bag is a large canvas bag thatcan accommodate most folded manualwheelchairs. It’s designed to allow you totip the wheelchair into the boot, so youdon’t have to carry its whole weight at anypoint. It also protects your car againstdamage.
10
Other solutionsThere are other ways of carrying a wheelchair in a car. You can use a rackmounted on the roof or the back of the car, or attach a trailer. The L.I.T.E. baghelps you lift a wheelchair into the boot.
Wheelchair loaded on Chairack £145
L.I.T.E. Bag RRP £65 from Biston (07710 275795) and selected suppliers
11
Your abilitiesn Whatever option you go for, you needto know that you can use it every timeyou go out in the car, even on a bad day.
n Make sure you know exactly what youneed to do to load and secure your chair,and make sure you can do it comfortablyand safely. When using a hoist, you alsoneed to secure the hoist itself. Sometimesit stays attached to the chair, which holdsit securely, but some need to be detachedand secured separately.
Your car and equipmentn Make sure the car you choose hasenough space for all the equipment youneed, and anything else you want tocarry. Where will you put your shopping?
n If you have to fold or dismantle yourchair, can you do it? Can you pick up theheaviest part?
n Check the weight of any equipmentyou use. Try our online database forinformation on powered wheelchairs andscooters (www.rica.org.uk/pwcs). Ifyou’re using a hoist, check with thesupplier that it can take the weight ofyour wheelchair. Check the car can takethe weight of the hoist and wheelchairtogether, and check its towing weight ifyou’re using a trailer (ask the car dealer).
n Some hoists and other equipment canonly be fitted to a limited range of cars.Check with the supplier.
n Most suppliers will adapt equipmentto suit you, your car and your wheelchair.Discuss what you need with the supplierbefore you start.
Fittingn Hoists, lifts and stowage systems areusually installed by vehicle adaptationcompanies or by their local dealers. Some will come to you to fit the hoist.Otherwise you will have to arrange foryour car to be taken to them. OurMobility address list (see page 35) listsadaptation companies.
n Most hoists can be fitted to the rightor left hand side of the boot – check withthe supplier. Some hoists come in onesize. Some are cut and shapedindividually for each car to give as muchroom as possible for swinging thewheelchair in.
n Some stowage systems requireconsiderable modification of the car,which may not be reversible.
n Winches need to be fitted correctly.It’s especially important that the winchcable is aligned with the vehicle, so itpulls the wheelchair in a straight line.
Choosing and fitting
12
Equipmentsuppliers
Here we list the suppliers who make orimport the equipment listed in this guide.Some of them fit equipment themselves,and they all sell their equipment toadaptation companies, who may be morelocal to you.
Contact the supplier for moreinformation about their products and tofind a local installer. You’ll find a completelist of adaptation companies in ourMobility address list (see page 35).
AdaptacarTel 01769 572785Email [email protected]
Alfred BekkerTel 01377 241700Email [email protected]
Autoadapt UKTel 0121 333 5170Email [email protected]
Autochair Tel 01773 830222Email [email protected]
Brig-Ayd ControlsTel 01707 322322Email [email protected]
Bristol Street VersaTel 08433 081 814Email [email protected]
Cowal Mobility AidsTel 01494 714400Email [email protected]
G Bernard ElliotTel 07974 258585Email [email protected]
Elap MobilityTel 08000 433159Email [email protected]
PB ConversionsTel 01525 850588Email [email protected]
Steering DevelopmentsTel 01442 212918Emailenquiries@steeringdevelopments.co.ukwww.steeringdevelopments.co.uk
TechmobilityTel 01376 564499Email [email protected]
13
TESTINGA number of hoists were tested for thefirst edition of this guide. They all passedtests for electrical safety, and none hadhidden hazards. There was no danger ofthe wheelchair dropping if power failed. Itis possible to hit your head on the arm ofthe hoist by mistake. If you think this islikely and your hoist is not padded, askthe supplier to provide some form ofcushioning.
MAINTENANCEAll of the hoists tested were strongenough to stand up to several years ofuse. All of the electric motors passed ourendurance tests and laboratory engineersjudged that they needed minimalmaintenance. We have no reason to thinkthat the hoists described in this guide areany less robust than they were whentested or that newer models are likely tobe less good.
However it is always important toinspect all equipment, including ramps,winches, hoists and stowage systems,regularly for damage. Your supplier willadvise you about what to look out for, but check:
n cords and winch cables for frayingn nuts and bolts for tightnessn moving parts for lubricationn for unusual noises when operating.
SECURINGIt’s important to secure all equipmentwhen the car is moving. Otherwise itcould cause severe injuries if you have tobrake suddenly. Ask the adaptationcompany about this.
RampsYou will have to secure both thewheelchair or scooter and the ramp.
Two-way hoistsYou will also have to secure thewheelchair or scooter and, with somehoists, the lifting arm too. Some hoistscome with securing mechanisms built in.
Four-way hoists and liftsFour-way hoists and lifts do not requireyou to secure the wheelchair. It remainsattached to the hoist, which is secure.
WAVsWAVs come equipped with restraints forthe wheelchair and for the passenger.Both should be used properly at all times.
RestraintsMany of the hoist suppliers mentioned inthis guide and in our Mobility address listsell securing devices, although prices varywidely – from £25 to over £100.
The main specialist suppliers ofrestraint systems are Q’Straint (01227773035, www.qstraint.com) and UnwinSafety Systems (01935 827740,www.unwin-safety.com).
Safety
1514
Products
Autochair Mini-Hoist 40kg Autochair 40 795/1165 H/E/4/M hand held wired, yes, arm n/a attach karabiner cordless option to frame
Carolift 40 Autoadapt UK 40 846/- S/H/E/4/M fixed to hoist yes 11 hoist folds flat
Elap V40 Elap Mobility 40 805/- S/H/E/4/M fixed to hoist arm, no n/a nonecordless option
Junior 40kg Alfred Bekker 40 765/1025 H/E/4/M hand held wired, yes 6 fold flat and secure
cordless option
Mini-Hoist Techmobility 40 575/- S/H/E/4/M hand held wired yes, 2.5-4.5 lift off arm arm and actuator and secure
Wheelchair Hoist 40kg Brig-Ayd Controls 40 700/- H/E/4/M fixed to hoist arm no (folds) n/a fold flat and secure
Wheelchair Hoist 75kg Brig-Ayd Controls 75 850/- H/E/4/M hand held wired yes, arm 6 use motor to lower to floor and secure
Autochair Mini-Hoist 80kg Autochair 80 895/1095 H/E/4/M hand held wired, yes, arm n/a attach karabinercordless option to frame
Mini 80kg (Fixed) Alfred Bekker 80 -/1140 H/E/4/M hand held wired, yes 5.7 use motor to lowercordless option to floor and secure
Mini 80kg (Folding) Alfred Bekker 80 -/1260 H/E/4/M hand held wired, yes 6.1 use motor to lower cordless option to floor and secure
Wheelchair Hoist 80kg Brig-Ayd Controls 80 -/900 E/4/M hand held wired, yes, arm and 5 lower to floor andcordless option motors secure
Midi-Hoist Techmobility 80 765/1090 S/H/E/4/M hand held wired yes, arm and 2.5-4.5 lift off arm and secure actuator
Carolift 90 Autoadapt UK 90 -/1586 H/E/4/M hand held wired no n/a n/a
Carolift ASL-325 Autoadapt UK 90 805/- S/H/E/4/M fixed to hoist arm yes, arm 6 use motor to lowerto floor and secure
Autochair Olympian Hoist Autochair 100 -/1045 H/E/4/M hand held wired, yes, arm 4 attach karabiner 100kg cordless option to frame
WHEELCHAIR ANDSCOOTER HOISTS
Distributed by(see page 12 for contactdetails)
Max weight lifted (kg)
Price inc fitting [1]2-way/4-way£
To what kind of vehicle can thehoist be fitted [2]
Control type Do you have toremove parts ofthe hoist?
Weight of heaviestremovable part(kg)
Securing 2-way hoist(and notes)
Footnotes [1] Prices may vary – depending on supplier [2] S = saloon, H = hatchback, E = estate, 4 = 4x4, M = multi purposevehicle/people carrier. This is for guidance only. Always check that the hoist is suitable for both your specific vehicle and wheelchair.
The following pages contain information about products:technical information, availability and price.
1716
Mini 100kg Alfred Bekker 100 1060/1255 H/E/4/M hand held wired, yes 9.4 use motor to lower cordless option to floor and secure
Powered Boot Hoist 100kg PB Conversions 100 -/1250 H/4/M hand held wired no n/a use locking pin or thumb screw
Wheelchair Hoist 100kg Brig-Ayd Controls 100 1262/950 E/4/M hand held wired, yes, arm 4 use motor to lowercordless option to floor and secure
Mini 120kg Alfred Bekker 120 -/1150 H/E/4/M hand held wired, yes 8.4 use motor to lowercordless option to floor
Telescopic Wheelchair Brig-Ayd Controls 120 -/2419 E/M hand held wired yes, arm 4 n/aHoist 120kg
Wheelchair Hoist 120kg Brig-Ayd Controls 120 -/1050 E/4/M hand held wired, yes, arm and 5 lower to floor andcordless option motors secure
Maxi-Hoist Techmobility 130 875/1200 S/H/E/4/M hand held wired yes 2.5-4.5 lift off arm arm and actuator and secure
Adaptacar Wheelchair Hoist Adaptacar 140 1171/1945 E/4/M hand held wired yes, arm 17 hook to eyelet onfloor and raisewith motor
Carolift 140 Autoadapt UK 140 -/1637 E/4/M hand held wired no n/a n/a
Autochair Olympian Hoist Autochair 150 -/1245 H/E/4/M hand held wired, yes, arm 4 n/a150kg cordless option
Mini 150kg Alfred Bekker 150 -/1285 H/E/4/M hand held wired, yes 9.4 use motor to lowercordless option to floor and secure
Powered Boot Hoist 150kg PB Conversions 150 -/1420 H/4/M hand held wired, no n/a use locking pin cordless option or thumb screw
Wheelchair Hoist 150kg Brig-Ayd Controls 150 -/1050 E/4/M hand held wired, yes, arm 4 n/acordless option
Wheelchair Hoist Bristol Street Versa 150 965/1205 E/4/M hand held wired yes, arm 20 has locking pin
Carolift 6000 Autoadapt UK 180 -/1794 E/4/M hand held wired no (folds) n/a n/a
Carolift 6900 Autoadapt UK 180 -/2546 E/4/M hand held wired no (folds) n/a includes telescopic adjustment
Carolift VSL 570 Autoadapt UK 180 1291/- E/4/M hand held wired no (folds) n/a fold flat and secure
Autochair Olympian Hoist Autochair 200 -/1595 H/E/4/M hand held wired, yes, arm 4 n/acordless option Footnotes [1] Prices may vary – depending on supplier [2] S = saloon, H = hatchback, E = estate, 4 = 4x4, M = multi purpose
vehicle/people carrier. This is for guidance only. Always check that the hoist is suitable for both your specific vehicle and wheelchair.
PRODUCT INFORMATION
Distributed by(see page 12 for contactdetails)
Max weight lifted (kg)
Price inc fitting [1]2-way/4-way£
To what kind of vehicle can thehoist be fitted [2]
Control type Do you have toremove parts ofthe hoist?
Weight of heaviestremovable part(kg)
Securing 2-way hoist(and notes)
WHEELCHAIR ANDSCOOTER HOISTS
18
JOEY LIFT
Price including fitting: £2,395Max weight lifted (kg): 159 Platform size (cm): 69x112Space required
(h x w x d cm): 102x112x115Distributor: Autoadapt UK
BACKPACKER
Price including fitting: £1,998Max weight lifted (kg): 114/147Platform size (cm): 69x120/77.5x155Space required
(h x w x d cm): 102x122x122Distributor: Alfred Bekker
PLATFORM LIFTSPlatform lifts are designed to fit in MPVs, large estates and vans. All requirequite a large space – in some vehicles you will have to remove the rear seats.
19
AUTOCHAIR LIGHT(rooftop hoist)
Price including fitting: £3,485Max weight lifted (kg): 20 Max size of folded chair
(h x w x d cm): 96x37x87Clearance travelling/
in use (cm): 44/137Weight of hoist (kg): 50Distributed by: Autochair
The Autochair Light moves to a verticalposition, and a hoist inside the unit lowersa hook. You hook on the folded chair byhand and the motor winches it into thebox. The box then moves to its horizontaltravelling position.
ABILOADER(boot loading hoist)
Price including fitting: £7,500Max weight lifted (kg): 25 Manufacturers say it will
take any folding or fixed manual chairand some power chairs
Weight of hoist (kg): 50Distributed by: Steering Developments
Automatic boot loading system withautomatic boot opener/closer. There areseparate models for folding/fixed framewheelchairs. Can be used with powerchairs (up to 25kg).
Automatically stores and secureswheelchair in boot and returns it to driveror passenger door when required.
Like all boot-loading systems, requireslevel boot floor (no sill) and high opening.
PRODUCT INFORMATION
STOWAGE SYSTEMSThese systems make it possible to stow a wheelchair in the car or on the roofafter you have transferred into the car seat. You don’t need help to do this.
20
COWAL GZ-91 (rooftop hoist)
Price including fitting: £4,250Max weight lifted (kg): 33Manufacturers say it will
take any folding manual chairClearance travelling/
in use (cm): 46/71Weight of hoist (kg): 55Distributed by: Cowal Mobility Aids
The box lid opens and a frame is lowered tothe ground by power. You push the foldedchair on to the frame and it is hoisted intothe box.
BRAUN CHAIR TOPPER(rooftop hoist)
Price including fitting: £3,488Max weight lifted (kg): 20Max size of folded chair
(h x w x d cm): 83x36x93 Clearance travelling/
in use (cm) : 54/54Weight of hoist (kg): 55Distributed by: Autoadapt UK
A motor slides the box across the roof so itis above the car door. A hook comes downwhich you can attach by hand to thewheelchair. The chair is winched up intothe box, which moves back to its travellingposition. The footplates do not have to beremoved.
21
EASYLOADER (rear seat loading hoist)
Price including fitting: £4,575/£4,875Max weight lifted (kg): 20/38Distributed by: Autochair
This hoist lifts the folded chair into the rearseat space of the car. It’s designed forvehicles with a rear sliding door, but somefour-door cars can be converted – the reardoor has to be modified.
You place the chair on the mechanismand it pivots it into the car. The rear seats(or the larger section of a split seat) haveto be removed. Operation is via a handheld control.
PRODUCT INFORMATION
AUTOCHAIR LIBERTY
Price including fitting: £3,525Max weight lifted (kg): 35Max size of folded chair
(h x w x d cm): 115x38x115 Clearance travelling/
in use (cm) : 50Weight of hoist (kg): 45Distributed by: Autochair
Operation is via a hand held control. Youposition the wheelchair next to the driverdoor and attach it to a grip. The wheelchairis then lifted into the box by a motor.
The box opens from the side rather thanthe top, so it can be used in garages andmulti-storey carparks.
22
SLIDING DOOR AND ARM(rear seat loading hoist)
Price including fitting: about £5,800Distributed by: Autoadapt UK
With this you can load a wheelchair intothe rear compartment of a 4-door car aftertransferring to the front seat.
The rear door has to be modified.Autoadapt can fit a sliding door, with apower door opener. The rear seats (or thelarger section of a split seat) will have to beremoved.
ROOF SPIDER (rooftop hoist)
Price including fitting: about £3,400Maximum weight lifted (kg): 25Clearance travelling/
in use (cm): 42/112Weight of hoist (kg): 54Distributed by: Autoadapt UK
You press a button on the wired handcontrol corresponding to the side of the caryou want to load the wheelchair from. Thebox opens and the lifting device lowers.You fold the wheelchair around the deviceand press another button to load it intothe roof box.
23
WYMO ROOFTOP STOWAGEHOIST (rooftop hoist)
Price including fitting: £1,750Maximum weight lifted (kg): 20Clearance travelling/
in use (cm): 32/84Distributed by: Cowal Mobility Aids
You plug the cable into the hoist and intothe cigarette lighter (a hard-wired versionis available for an extra £75).
The hoist is lowered and you hook onthe chair by hand. You winch the chair partway by power, lean out to attach a strap,raise the chair, fix the other end of thestrap and hoist up. There is no box so thewheelchair is open to the elements.
PRODUCT INFORMATION
24
years (five years for a wheelchairaccessible vehicle). Maintenance andservicing costs, insurance for two drivers(up to two additional drivers can beadded for a fee) and RAC breakdownassistance are included. There is a mileageallowance of 20,000 miles per year(additional miles are charged at 5pper mile).
You can choose a model from any ofthe main manufacturers. If you chooseone that is more expensive than iscovered by the mobility allowance, youmake an advance payment with your ownmoney (the amount varies, depending onthe car). Motability offers over 450 carswhich require no advance payment.
AdaptationsThe Motability Scheme will also cover, orcontribute to, the cost of adaptations(such as hoists or swivel seats).Motability has a list of availableadaptations, with costs attached (manyare free). They operate a ManagedAdaptations Programme which can makethe process both easier and cheaper. Youcan only make use of this programmewhen you are ordering your new car.
If you want to fit your own adaptationsduring your lease, or fit something notavailable through the programme, youwill have to fund this yourself. Motabilityadminister a number of funds (seeGrants) which may be able to help. Anyadaptations must be supplied and fittedby a Motability Adaptations Partner.
DISABILITY BENEFITSThe Disability Living Allowance (DLA) isan allowance paid to all disabled peopleto help with extra costs. It is made up of acare component and a mobilitycomponent. A lower or higher rate ofeach is paid, depending on how muchhelp you need. DLA also works as agateway to other services (eg BlueBadges, the Motability scheme).
Since April 2013, DLA has beenreplaced by the Personal IndependencePayment (PIP) for new claimants aged 16or over. If you already get the DLA, youwill be reassessed to determine the levelof payment you will receive under the PIPbut this process will not start untilOctober 2013.
There are currently no plans to changethe DLA for people under 16. You willneed to be assessed for PIP when you turn 16.
MOTABILITY
Tel 0845 456 4566Textphone 0845 675 0009If you receive the Higher Rate MobilityComponent of the DLA or the EnhancedRate Mobility Component of PIP you areeligible for the Motability scheme. Yourallowance goes towards the cost of a car,powered wheelchair or scooter.
You can use the mobility allowance tolease a new car from Motability for three
Finance
GrantsMotability administer the governmentSpecialised Vehicle Funds as well ashaving their own charitable fund.
If you are considering the MotabilityScheme you can apply for a grant forthings like adaptations, advancepayments on more expensive vehiclesand driving lessons (for people under25). You have to provide details of yourcircumstances, which will be checked.Motability can only help towards theleast expensive solution that meets yourneeds. They will assess your needs andmake suitable recommendations.
OTHER SOURCES OFFINANCECharitiesSome charities give grants to individuals.n Your local library should be able to help
you find sources, such as the RoundTable, Rotary or Lions Club and otherlocal charities.
n Try your appropriate disability groupsuch as Scope, the MS Society or theMuscular Dystrophy Campaign, whomay know of sources of help.
n If you are aged 50 or over, Charity Search provide a free service to help you find a grant-giving charity: Freepost (BS 6610)AvonmouthBristol BS11 9TWTel 0117 982 4060 (9:30 to 2:30 Mon–Thurs)Email [email protected]
n Turn2us provides a free service to helpyou find financial support in the form ofwelfare benefits, grants and other helptailored to your circumstances.Tel 0808 802 2000 (8–8 Mon–Fri)www.turn2us.org.uk
n The Family Fund helps families who areraising a disabled or seriously ill childaged 17 and under. Families must haveproof of entitlement to benefits or taxcredit. They give grants for a range ofessential items, and may be able tocontribute to the cost of adapting aMotability car if Motability funding isn’tavailable.4 Alpha CourtMonks Cross DriveHuntingdonYork YO32 9WNTel 08449 744 099Fax 01904 652 625Textphone 01904 658 085Email [email protected]
Statutory sourcesn Social services – may be worth trying,
especially if you do not get DLA/PIP or ifyou have already used your mobilitycomponent to lease a vehicle.
n Access to Work – if you are in work orare applying for a job you may be ableto get help from the Access to Workscheme. They may cover the cost ofadaptations to a vehicle if this is theonly or most cost effective way for youto get to work. Cases are assessed on an individual basis. Contact your local Jobcentre Plus or visitwww.gov.uk/access-to-work
25
26
Mobility Choice Motoring
Disabled Gear
BUYING SECONDHANDYou can buy adapted vehicles andequipment secondhand. Anything you buysecondhand may be affected by safety andreliability issues. For secondhand vehicles,the seller may have had an inspectioncarried out and/or offer a warranty. If not,you may want to think about carrying outyour own inspection.
Some suppliers will fit secondhandhoists for you. Remember to allow for anyfitting costs.
Classified advertisementsThe following websites carry listings foradapted vehicles and equipment.
The Disabled Living Foundation (seepage 33) also has a list of sources ofsecondhand equipment.
Disability Nowwww.disabilitynow.org.uk/listings/classifieds
Disability Equipment Registerwww.disabilityequipment.org.uk
Disabled Gearwww.disabledgear.com
eBaywww.ebay.co.uk
Mobility Choice Motoringwww.mobilitychoicemotoring.co.uk
Prelovedwww.preloved.co.uk
VATYou do not pay VAT on products designedand sold specifically for disabled people.This means all adaptations, installation,repair and maintenance are zero-rated.
What kind of adaptations count?n Those which make it possible for you
to get in and out of the vehicle, such as a swivel seat.
n Those which make it possible for you todrive, such as hand controls for primarydriving controls and infra red systems forsecondary controls. Note that standardextras such as automatic transmissionwould not be enough to qualify.
n Those which enable a wheelchair to be carried in the vehicle, such as a hoist. Trailers, roof or rear racks wouldnot count as they are not vehicleadaptations.
Adaptations have to be permanent – which means in practice that they have to be welded or bolted on. Repair andmaintenance to the vehicle is also zerorated. The supplier of the vehicle has to be satisfied that you qualify, and youwill have to sign a form declaring yourdisability.
Wheelchair and stretcher usersAdditionally, if you use a wheelchair orstretcher you may not have to pay VAT onthe price of the car or for its repair ormaintenance.
To qualify you must:n be a wheelchair user – temporary
users do not count and nor do scooterusers or
n need to be carried in a stretcher.
n You must buy and adapt the vehicleat the same time – you cannot get a VAT refund for adaptations madelater.n Alterations made to a car before it is registered in your name have tohave type approval. In practice thismeans that it is only legal to fit theseadaptations after registration. Youhave to register the car, have itadapted and then pay for it.n Talk to the firm who is adaptingyour car – they will be able to makeappropriate arrangements.
27
The car must:n have been designed or substantially
and permanently adapted for theperson who normally uses a wheelchairor stretcher
n have a carrying capacity of no morethan 12 people
n be for domestic or personal use.
Vehicles owned and run by businesses donot qualify. However you can use aqualifying adapted vehicle for work if this isincidental to its main private use.
VAT relief applies only to new cars, so ifyou are buying a car with the intention ofhaving controls fitted, it may be worthyour while to consider buying a new carrather than a secondhand one as you willnot have to pay VAT on the car.
More information: see VAT notices 701/7(adaptations) and 1615 (motor vehicles)from the HM Revenue and Customsnational advice service:Tel 0845 010 9000www.hmrc.gov.uk.
Important
FINANCE
28
You may be sent a questionnaire andwill be asked to give permission for theMedical Advisor to contact your doctor orspecialist. If your driving licence is forautomatic cars only, you must make surethe clutch pedal is removed if you haveadapted a manual gearbox. Read more atwww.direct.gov.uk/driverhealth or in Whatyou need to know about driving licencesfrom a post office.
VEHICLE EXCISE DUTY (ROAD TAX)You don’t have to pay Road Tax if you getthe Higher Rate Mobility Component of theDLA, the Enhanced Rate MobilityComponent of PIP or the War Pensioner’sMobility Supplement.
If you are not the driver you have toprovide the name of whoever will drive foryou. The vehicle must be registered in youror your nominee’s name. It must be usedonly by you or for your benefit – such as todo your shopping. Anyone can drive it aslong as they are insured.
To claim, get an exemption certificatefrom the Disability Benefits Helpline(08457 123 456) or the Service Personneland Veterans Agency (0800 169 2277). Youcan then get your free tax disc at post officeswhich issue road tax, or by post. If the dealeris registering your new vehicle for you, youwill need to let them have your certificate.Renewals can be made online.
Motability vehicles (see page 24) don’tneed a certificate – the tax disc is arrangedby Motability.
DRIVING LICENCEMobility Centres or disabled drivers’organisations (see page 30) will be ableto help you find a driving instructor whospecialises in teaching disabled drivers.They use cars with adapted controls orwill teach you in your own car.
Drivers of adapted cars take the sametest as everyone else. If you drive anadapted car and you have advised theDriving and Vehicle Licensing Agency,details will appear in code form on yourlicence. The adaptations recorded are:modified transmission, modified clutch,modified braking and accelerationsystems, modified control layouts,modified steering, modified rear viewmirrors and modified driving seats. Youcan only drive cars with similar equipment.
There’s no top age limit to driving. Youhave to renew your licence at 70 andevery three years after that. A form will besent to you by the DVLA.
You must tell them of any disabilitywhen applying for a licence for the firsttime. You must also tell them if you havea new medical condition or one which hasgot worse since passing your driving testor since your last licence was issued.Conditions you have to tell them aboutinclude fits or blackouts, seizures,diabetes, angina attacks which areprovoked by driving, memory problems,stroke, brain injury, brain surgery,pacemaker, difficulty in using your armsor legs and any visual condition whichaffects both eyes.
The law
BLUE BADGE SCHEME
The Blue Badge Scheme offers parkingconcessions for disabled people withsevere walking difficulties who need topark close to their destinations. Thescheme also applies to registered blindpeople, people with severe upper limbdisabilities in both arms who regularlydrive a car and children under three withspecific medical conditions.
You can use designated disabled parkingbays in car parks and on the street, park forup to three hours on single and doubleyellow lines and often park for free in localauthority car parks and bays (check first, assome local authorities still charge). InCentral London boroughs, parking is onlyin designated bays.
The scheme is administered by localauthorities which deal with applicationsand issue badges.
For more information contact your localauthority or go towww.gov.uk/apply-blue-badge orwww.dft.gov.uk (follow the link for theblue badge scheme).
INSURANCEUnder the Equality Act, insurers are notallowed to refuse disabled driversinsurance or charge extra withoutjustifying evidence. Premiums must bebased on a reasonable assessment of risk.Insurers will take account of any DVLArestrictions on your licence, but this is notin itself justification for a higher premium.However, you may have to pay more:
n while you are adjusting to a newdisability if there is evidence that thiswill increase the risk
n to cover any extra cost of repairing an adapted vehicle.
As with all insurance, shop around to get thebest deal. If you feel you are being chargedmore for your policy than other drivers insimilar circumstances, ask the insurancecompany for details of why they consideryou to be a greater risk. Mobility Centres andorganisations of disabled drivers have lists ofspecialist insurance companies.
We know of the following companieswhich specialise in insurance services fordisabled people:
n Chartwell n En-route n First Senior n Fish n Locktonn Premier Care
29
0800 08901460800 783724501582 8400670800 08830500845 602800001476 591104
30
Key to servicesThe centres vary in the services they offer. This key shows what’s available:I free information serviceD advice on choosing a vehicle, driving it,
driving controls and learning to driveP assessment and advice about getting in
and out of vehicles, loading of wheelchairs and other equipment
W advice on selecting and using a wheelchairor scooter
T driving tuition for new drivers, peoplereturning to driving and those who will beusing different controls
A fitting adaptations for drivers or passengers
BristolLiving Mobility & Driving CentreThe Vassall Centre, Gill Avenue, FishpondsBristol BS16 2QQTel 0117 965 9353Fax 0117 965 3652Email [email protected]: I D P W T
CornwallCornwall Mobility Centre, Tehidy HouseRoyal Cornwall Hospital, Truro TR1 3LJSatellite centres Exeter, Holsworthy,Liskeard, PlymouthTel 01872 254920Fax 01872 254921Email
enquiries@cornwallmobilitycentre.co.ukwww.cornwallmobilitycentre.co.ukServices: I D P W T A
MOBILITY CENTRES
There are 16 Mobility Centres in the UK.They give practical and independentadvice and assessment to disabled driversand passengers. They will assess yourability to drive, advise you about cars thatmight suit you and about any adaptationsyou may need. They are well informed onmotoring and disability issues generally.Each centre has expert and friendly staffwho are likely to have met and solvedsimilar problems before. They are noncommercial and impartial.
An assessment for a driver referring himor herself will cost from £50 to £130(depending on the centre). In Scotlandassessment is free if referred by a GP. Costsfor assessment as a passenger are lower –generally around £20–£50. Motabilitycustomers may qualify for a freeassessment under the ManagedAdaptation Programme.
Mobility Centres are accredited by theForum of Mobility Centres and havecertain minimum standards. For moreinformation on the centres contact:
The Forum of Mobility Centresc/o Providence Chapel, WarehorneAshford, Kent TN26 2JXTel 0800 559 3636Email [email protected]
Useful organisations
DerbyshireDerby DrivAbilityKingsway Hospital, KingswayDerby DE22 3LZTel 01332 371929Email dhft.driving@net www.derbydrivability.comServices: I D P T
HampshireWessex DriveAbilityLeornain House, Kent Road, PortswoodSouthampton SO17 2LJTel 023 8051 2222Email enquiries@wessexdriveability.org.ukwww.wessexdriveability.org.ukServices: I D P
HertfordshireHertfordshire Action on Disability (HAD)The Woodside Centre, The CommonsWelwyn Garden City AL7 4DDSatellite centre DunstableTel 01707 324581Fax01707 371297Email [email protected]: I D P W T
KentSouth East DriveAbilityKent Community Health NHS TrustSt Lawrence Avenue, AllingtonKent ME16 0LLSatellite centres Hailsham, Herne Bay,
Canterbury, Uckfield Tel 01622 606900Fax 01622 606901Email [email protected]/home/our-
services/south-east-driveabilityServices: I D P W T
LancashireWrightington Mobility CentreWrightington Hospital, Hall LaneAppley Bridge, Lancs WN6 9EPSatellite centre Tyldsley (Manchester)Tel 01257 256409Fax 01257 256538Email [email protected]: I D P T
NorfolkEast Anglian DriveAbility2 Napier Place, Thetford IP24 3RLSatellite centres Coggeshall, Spalding,
Wakes ColneTel 01842 753029Fax 01842 755950Email mail@eastangliandriveability.org.ukwww.eastangliandriveablity.org.ukServices: I D P W T
North EastNorth East Drive Mobility, Walkergate Park Centre for Neuro-
rehabilitation and Neuro-psychiatry Benfield RoadNewcastle upon Tyne NE6 4QDSatellite centre PenrithTel 0191 287 5090 Email [email protected]: I D P T
SurreyQEF Mobility Services1 Metcalf AvenueCarshalton, Surrey SM5 4AWTel 020 8770 1151Fax 020 8770 1211Email [email protected]: I D P W T
31
32
SCOTLANDScottish Driving Assessment ServiceAstley Ainslie Hospital133 Grange LoanEdinburgh EH9 2HLSatellite centre Mobile DrivingAssessmentServiceTel 0131 537 9192Fax 0131 537 9193Email
[email protected]: I D P
WALESNorth Wales Mobility and Driving Assessment ServiceDisability Resources CentreGlan Clwyd HospitalBodelwyddanDenbighshire LL18 5UJSatellite centre NewtownTel 01745 584 858Fax 01745 535 042Email [email protected]: I D P W T A
South Wales Mobility and Driving Assessment ServiceRookwood HospitalFairwater RoadLlandaffCardiff CF5 2YNSatellite centre PembrokeTel 029 2055 5130Fax 029 2055 5130Email [email protected]: I D P T
West MidlandsRegional Driving Assessment CentreUnit 11, Network ParkDuddeston Mill Road, Birmingham B8 1AUSatellite centres Cannock, Hull,Northampton, Oxford, WorcesterTel 0845 337 1540Fax 0121 333 4568Email [email protected]: I D P T
West YorkshireThe William Merritt CentreDisabled Living Centre and Mobility
ServiceSt Mary’s Hospital, Green Hill RoadArmley, Leeds LS12 3QESatellite centres Sheffield, YorkTel 0113 305 5288Email [email protected] or
[email protected]: I D P W
NORTHERN IRELANDDisability Action, Portside Business Park189 Airport Road West, Belfast BT3 9EDSatellite centres Ballymena, Newry,Carrickfergus, Omagh, FermanaghTel 028 9029 7880Fax 028 9029 7881Email mobilitycentre@disabilityaction.orgwww.disabilityaction.orgServices: I D P T
OTHER ORGANISATIONS
Assist UKNational network of centresoffering advice onindependent living equipment.Your local centre can advise
about wheelchairs and accessories.Tel 0161 238 8776Email [email protected]
Disability NowA monthly online newspaper published byScope with reviews by disabled people andclassified advertisements. www.disabilitynow.org.uk
Disabled Living Foundation
Advice and information on disabilityequipment. They have a database ofproducts and suppliers. Ground Floor, Landmark HouseHammersmith Bridge RoadLondon W6 9EJTel 0845 130 9177(weekdays 10am to 4pm)www.dlf.org.ukwww.livingmadeeasy.org.uk
33
USEFUL ORGANISATIONS
Disabled Motoring UKThe campaigningcharity for disabledmotorists. They run the
Baywatch campaign against parkingabuse and represent disabled people’sneeds at a national level. Membership,£20 per year (£30 for joint members),includes a monthly magazine, adviceservice and member benefits.Ashwellthorpe, Norwich NR16 1EXTel 01508 489449Email [email protected]
Driver and Vehicle Licensing AgencyDrivers Medical GroupDVLASwansea SA99 1TUTel 0300 790 6806Fax 0845 850 0095Email [email protected]/dvla/medical.aspxwww.gov.uk/driving-if-disabled
Northern IrelandDriver and Vehicle Agency Drivers Medical
SectionCounty Hall, Castlerock RoadColeraine BT51 3TBTel 0845 402 4000Email [email protected]
GOV.UKA website providing information aboutpublic services. They have useful sectionson motoring and on disability.www.gov.uk/browse/disabilities
34
Remap ScotlandThe website has a useful map showing thelocations of local groups.Forgue House, Forgue, Huntly AB54 6DATel 01466 730 736Email [email protected]
Service CallA service that allows disabledpeople to use petrol stationsand other services that are
difficult to access. You carry an infraredtransmitter (£14.95 inc p&p), which youuse to signal that you need assistance atparticipating outlets, which includethousands of petrol stations, banks,supermarkets, shops and others.Tel 0800 458 3008Email [email protected]
Wheelchair Accessible VehicleConverters’ Association
The trade association forcompanies who make and sellWAVs. WAVCA aims to improvethe quality and safety of WAVs
and lobbies for legislation for wheelchairpassenger vehicles.
Members must: n have been trading for at least 2 yearsn offer at least 3 years warranty n have passed safety tests on restraints
and seat beltsn demonstrate a commitment to
customer service.Email [email protected]
Mobility Roadshows
Have a wide range of adapted cars andmobility products to see and try.Manufacturers and organisations are onhand to give advice and demonstrations.Roadshows are free.Mobility Choice Tel 01344 750400Fax 0845 241 2136Email [email protected]
Motability One Big DayMotability run these regional events forusers or prospective users of the scheme –you can see and try cars and equipmentTel 0800 953 4002www.motabilityevents.co.uk
RemapA voluntaryorganisation ofengineers whoinvent, design and
make devices or carry out adaptations tohelp disabled people to be moreindependent or to enjoy leisure activities.
England, Wales and NID9 Chaucer Business ParkKemsing, Kent TN15 6YUTel 0845 130 0456Fax 0845 130 0789Email [email protected]
35
n For full details of the Motability Insurance range visit www.motability.co.uk or call direct: Motability HOME InsuranceMotability PET InsuranceMotability TRAVEL Insurance
n For every policy sold, the insurance providers will pay a proportion of the premium in commission to Motability to help disabled people remain mobile.
Motability has teamed up with leading home, pet and travel insurers
2012
ricability
A guide for older and disabled people
Car controlsRicability is a research charitythat publishes independentinformation on products and services for older and disabled people
RicabilityUnit G03 The Wenlock50–52 Wharf RoadLondon N1 7EUTel: 020 7427 2460Fax: 020 7427 2468Textphone: 020 7427 2469Email: [email protected]
Research and writing: Jasper HolmesPhotography: Robin Beckham,
SuppliersCover illustration: Michael MundayDesign: Price WatkinsPrinting: WPG
ISBN: 978-1-907408-16-8© Ricability 2012
Funded by:
ricability
Rica guidesAll these guides are available in print andonline at www.rica.org.uk. We also havetwo online search tools: one for cars andone for scooters and powered wheelchairs
FAMILY CARSIssues affecting families ofdisabled children andinformation about cars andstandard and specialistequipment.
2011
Ricability is an independentresearch charity that publishesinformation on products and services for older and disabled people
RicabilityUnit G03 The Wenlock50–52 Wharf RoadLondon N1 7EUTel: 020 7427 2460Fax: 020 7427 2468Textphone: 020 7427 2469Email: [email protected]
Research: Jasper HolmesPhotography: Robin BeckhamCover illustration: Michael MundayDesign: Price WatkinsPrint: WPG
ISBN: 978-1-907408-04-5© Ricability2011
ricabilityricability
A guide for older and disabled people
Getting in and out of a car
����������� ���������!����������"� �������������������������������
SEVEN SHORTER GUIDESn Motoring after an amputationn Motoring after a brain injuryn Motoring after a stroken Motoring with arthritisn Motoring with cerebral palsyn Motoring multiple sclerosisn Motoring with restricted growth
CAR CONTROLSIn depth information ontypes of adaptations andhow to get them. It coverssimple and more complexconversions.
WHEELCHAIRACCESSIBLEVEHICLESInformation on vehiclesconverted to allow you totravel in your wheelchair, as a passenger or driver.
CHOOSING A CARThings to think about if youhave a disability, details offeatures that may help youand ways of adapting a carto suit your needs.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTOverview of public transportwith information about access,journey planning, concessions,assistance and how tocomplain.
GETTING IN ANDOUT OF A CARTechniques that may help as you get older; helpfulequipment and details of liftingsystems if you need more help.
MOBILITY ADDRESSLISTAddresses of all adaptationsuppliers, fitters and convertersin the UK and the services theyoffer.
0800 783 00610800 369 90940800 519 9957
RICA C=77 M=7 Y=39 K=0
RICA C=41 M=0 Y=89 K=0
Rica is an independent researchcharity that publishes practicalconsumer information
RicaUnit G03 The Wenlock50–52 Wharf RoadLondon N1 7EUTel 020 7427 2460Fax 020 7427 2468Textphone 020 7427 2469Email [email protected]
Funded by:
Consumer research for older and disabled people
Research
DesignPhotography
Cover illustrationPrinting
Cassie Barton,Jasper HolmesPrice WatkinsRobin Beckham andcredited convertersMichael MundayWPG
ISBN: 978-1-907408-20-5© Rica 2013