Whether or not you are buying a mobility van for the first time, the process of buying a wheelchair accessible vehicle is sure shot overwhelming. This is because there are so many options available in the market and choosing from the plethora of options for handicap vans   that meets your requirements best can be more time-consuming that you can think it is.

Given below are 10 tips that’ll help you save your precious time and make the search for the ideal handicap van a lot easier. In the meantime, it is advisable for you to stay away from suspicious dealers.

Look around and know the available options

The market is replete with so many models of wheelchair accessible or handicap vans. The dozens of variants of handicap vans also feature lifts and driving aids. Know your budget and requirements and choose accordingly.

Make the most of dealers’ experience

The benefit of approaching an experienced dealer is that he knows the mechanics behind the functioning of various models of handicap vans.

Choose a qualified dealer

The NMEDA (National Mobility Equipments Dealers Association), a non-profit organization, is dedicated to safe and reliable modifications in the mobility vehicles market. Dealers part of this association are unparalleled in the services they offer and provide you with all the associated benefits of 24/7 emergency service by trained technicians meeting the highest of standards.

Track the dealers’ past records

Almost every dealer out there boasts of “customizable” mobility vehicles. But, are their services reliable? Take a look at customer reviews and compare the options available at your disposal. Do a proper research on both the dealer and the handicap van you intend to purchase.

Get references

Refrain from being hesitant to ask for references from the dealer. If possible, try speaking with past customers and know how their buying experience was, both before and after the sale. This will help you steer clear of any future damages.

Ask if the vehicle is under warranty

This is a point customers generally tend to ignore, only to realize it is high time they considered it! Choose a wheelchair-accessible vehicle that is under warranty. This will shield you from any near future expenses in addition to providing a longer coverage. For more information on the vehicle warranty, you may as well speak with the mobility consultant at the store.

Be vocal about your requirements

There are many factors that come into play when you are filtering options. Right from the size of the wheelchair user and size of the wheelchair itself to the number of occupants permitted into the vehicle, it is extremely crucial to see a bigger picture while making a decision. Also, be vocal about the type of disability and other related information as this will help the consultant provide you with the best fit based on your budget and requirements.

Decide on the rear-entry or the side-entry conversion

Typically, there are two types of mobility vans: a rear-entry and a side-entry vehicle. The rear-entry, as the name suggests, is the ramp deployment from the rear hatch area, allowing the user access to the rear and midsection of the vehicle, but not the front. However, in the side-entry, the ramp deploys from the side door, allowing the person access to the center and front-seating areas of the vehicle. By far, the latter is the only choice if you are planning to drive. Speak with the mobility consultant to help you further in making the right choice.

Buying a pre-modified vehicle versus getting your vehicle modified

Both the options have their individual benefits. When you buy a pre-modified version of a handicap van, you have the liberty to touch and feel the final product; nonetheless, you may not be able to customize it further. If you get your vehicle modified, you may be completely new to the exercise and might not settle for the best bargain and features. Both the ways, there are pros and cons; therefore, seeking the help of an expert can help.

Take your time

Consultants are there to help you out in the buying process; however, at the end of the day, it is you who has to take a final call. Their fundamental aim might not literally be to boost quick sales but develop long-lasting relationships based on trust. Take the time to decide whether the handicap van at hand checks into all the parameters you’ve set and also aligns well with your future needs. Haste makes waste, hence, be cautious!

Keep these tips in mind when you think of buying a wheelchair accessible vehicle.