People with disabilities have often been regarded as weak, fragile, and helpless individuals.
This preconceived notion has led us to neglect the safety of people with special needs even in our day-to-day life.
The lack of access to transportation is one of the biggest concerns that people with disabilities face today.
Limited accessible public transportation means that a person using a wheelchair will find it difficult to get around independently.
In fact, a third of all adults with disabilities do not own their own vehicles.
If you have loved ones who require assistance in moving from place to place, you should know how to secure a wheelchair in a van safely and quickly.
To help you out, I’ve compiled this helpful step-by-step guide on how you can safely secure your loved one’s wheelchair in a van.
Why is it Important to Secure a Wheelchair in a Van?
There are many reasons why you should secure your loved one’s wheelchair in a van. Here are a few of them:
How To Secure A Wheelchair In A Van Properly
Secure With Safety Belts
Before you can learn how to secure a wheelchair with safety belts, it is important that you know how they work.
A safety belt is designed to hold the wheelchair in place during a collision. Here’s how you can secure a wheelchair with safety belts:
Secure A Wheelchair With Anchors
Wheelchairs come with anchor bars that you can use to secure them to the floor. Here are a few steps that you can follow to safely secure your wheelchair with anchors:
Secure Through The Use Of Locks
You can use locks to secure your wheelchair to the floor. Here are a few steps that you can follow to safely secure your wheelchair with locks:
Summary
There are many reasons why you should secure your loved one’s wheelchair in a van.
The most important of them all is safety. You will have reduced the risk of injury to yourself and your passenger by a huge margin if you secure the wheelchair properly.
You should use safety belts to secure your wheelchair. If you follow the tips and tricks listed above, you will be able to secure your loved one’s wheelchair in a van safely and quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to secure a wheelchair restraint?
The best way to secure a wheelchair restraint is by using a four-point tie-down system. This system consists of two straps in the front and two in the back that attach from the wheelchair frame to the vehicle floor or seat brackets. The straps should be taut enough to keep the chair from shifting, but not so tight as to cause discomfort or inhibit movement. The straps should also be inspected regularly for signs of wear or damage and replaced as needed. Additionally, wheelchairs with leg rest should be securely fastened to the vehicle floor or seat brackets to ensure they do not move during transport. This is especially important when transporting a person who needs additional support and stability while seated in a wheelchair.
How do you secure a wheelchair in a Dodge Caravan?
Securing a wheelchair in a Dodge Caravan is relatively easy. To get started, you’ll need to make sure that the wheelchair fits properly in the vehicle; this includes measuring both the width and height of the chair against the interior dimensions of the Caravan. After that, you’ll need to acquire a securement system for your chair, whether it’s a four-point tie-down system, or a belt and buckle device.
Once you have the securement system in place, start by attaching the two rear straps to the anchor points on either side of the Caravan before threading them through the back of the wheelchair frame and securing them. Then, attach one side of the front straps to the anchor points on each side of the Caravan, before threading it through the wheelchair frame and securing it in place. Finally, make sure that all the straps are tightened securely so that the chair won’t move around while driving.
