When you think of transporting someone in a wheelchair, your mind might go directly to large vans or special handicap transportation services.
While those are great for people who need help getting around every day and can’t drive themselves to their appointments, friends, or other locations, they aren’t necessary for every situation.
In fact, there are many everyday situations when you might need to transport someone in a wheelchair.
You may live with them, be their caregiver, or meet them on occasion for social outings.
If you’re the type of person who likes to be prepared for anything life throws your way and value being a good friend as well as helping out when needed—while also keeping safety top of mind— read on!
How to Transport someone in a wheelchair?
While transporting the patient to the wheelchair, you must follow the following things in mind:
- Keep the Wheelchair Near the Bed.
- Double Check the Wheelchair.
- Enable the Wheel Brakes.
- Use a Safety Belt.
- Push the Car Seat Back.
- Make the Patient Move to the Edge of the Wheelchair.
Here I’ll discuss everything you need to know about safely transporting someone in a wheelchair.
How to Safely Transport Someone in a Wheelchair
Anyone in a wheelchair can be safely transported in a wheelchair.
It doesn’t matter if you have a manual or power wheelchair, or if you’ve been in a wheelchair for a day or a decade.
With the right techniques, you can safely transport yourself or anyone who uses a wheelchair.
This can include transporting someone to an appointment together, to the same location but not together, or when you need to carry a wheelchair in your vehicle.
Remember that people in wheelchairs might have limitations you can’t see, so you’ll want to keep your expectations realistic.
Be sure to read on to learn when it is and isn’t appropriate to transport someone in a wheelchair.
When You’re Going To An Appointment Together
When you’re going to an appointment together, the first thing you want to do is speak with the person in the wheelchair to get their needs.
They’ll let you know whether they prefer to be in the backseat or the passenger seat if they need help getting there and whether they need help with anything else.
After you’ve spoken with them, make sure your vehicle has everything you need for safe transportation.
This includes having the appropriate seatbelts and buckling in both passengers, having the wheelchair secured in the back of the car, and having the wheelchair user’s assistive devices close by.
In an ideal situation, you may have an extra vehicle that can accommodate a wheelchair. This way, both of you are safe and comfortable in your own vehicles.
When You’re Going To The Same Location But Not Together
You may be going to the same location as someone in a wheelchair but not at the same time.
Perhaps you have a doctor’s appointment, a therapy session, or a meeting with your disability benefits officer nearby. In this situation, you’ll want to keep the person’s needs in mind when determining how to help them get there.
For example, if their appointment is in the morning and yours is in the afternoon, you’ll want to help them get there during the hours of low traffic.
If you’re helping the person in the wheelchair, use the same seatbelts and buckling technique you’d use for a child.
This ensures the person in the wheelchair is safe and comfortable, and that they’re strapped in properly.
You may also want to consider using a wheelchair cart to transport the wheelchair, especially if you don’t have a ramp at your home or are traveling on a bus or train.
When You Need To Carry A Wheelchair In Your Vehicle
If you need to carry a wheelchair in your vehicle, get a wheelchair cart to secure it.
Wheelchair carts allow you to transport the wheelchair with ease, and many have a way to close the cart so the wheelchair is secure while you’re driving.
If you don’t have one, use straps to secure the wheelchair to the cart. You may also consider a wheelchair trolley if you want to be able to fold and tuck it away when not in use.
If the wheelchair is on a cart or trolley, make sure to secure it properly in the back of your vehicle.
You may also want to place it in the back because you don’t want the person in the wheelchair to have to climb over it to get to the front seat.
Who Can Benefit From Knowing How to Safely Transport Someone in a Wheelchair?
If you’re reading this, chances are you know someone who may benefit from being transported in a wheelchair.
You may be their friend or family member, or work with this person on a regular basis and be asked to transport them now and then.
You may even have a loved one who is wheelchair-bound and needs occasional assistance getting from place to place.
If you’re in any of these situations, there are a few reasons why knowing how to safely transport someone in a wheelchair is helpful.
First, it’s good for you to be prepared for anything! But transporting folks in wheelchairs can be tricky, and knowing what to do will help you navigate these situations.
Second, it shows you care about the safety of the person you’re helping. Good friends know how to transport someone in a wheelchair in a safe and responsible manner!
The Importance of Being Aware of Safety Rules When Transporting Someone in a Wheelchair
At the end of the day, the most important thing is to keep the person you’re transporting in a wheelchair safely.
This includes the driver as well, so please be aware of the safety rules when driving or navigating a vehicle when someone is in a wheelchair.
You should be aware of the following things when transporting someone in a wheelchair.
Be sure to use extreme caution if you have to make a sudden stop or need to brake quickly.
This can be a dangerous situation for the person in a wheelchair, as well as for the driver.
Finding the Right Van For Safe Mobility
If you know someone who relies on a wheelchair for mobility, chances are you’ve considered getting a van that is specially designed for people in wheelchairs.
If you aren’t sure why this is or what makes them different, we’ve got you covered! You’ve probably noticed that there are a few different kinds of vans available.
These include standard vans, standard minivans, and wheelchair-adapted minivans. Which one is best for you?
This can depend on a few things. For example, how often you plan to transport someone in a wheelchair, the size of the person who will be in the wheelchair, and how often you plan to transport other passengers as well.
What to Look for in A Wheelchair Van
If you’re thinking about getting a van that is specially designed for people in wheelchairs, there are a few key things you might want to look for.
For example, you might want to consider a van that has two entry doors. This makes it easier for passengers in wheelchairs to enter the vehicle.
You might also want to look for a van with a lowered floor. This will make it easier for a person in a wheelchair to get in and out of the van.
If you’re purchasing a used van, it’s important to make sure it has a wheelchair lift. You’ll want to make sure it’s in good condition and meets all safety standards.
It’s also important to make sure it’s installed properly and meets all safety standards as well.
Wrapping Up
When you know how to safely transport someone in a wheelchair, it opens up so many doors.
You can go on trips, have friends over, and go to appointments together.
You can even help out friends and family who are in wheelchairs.
This can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be.
Once you’ve followed the tips in this article, transporting someone in a wheelchair will be second nature.
And you’ll make everyone’s lives a bit easier and more convenient in the process!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you move someone in a wheelchair?
When moving someone in a wheelchair, it is important to ensure that the person is secure and comfortable. Start by putting on gloves if necessary and lightly place your hands underneath their arms or back for support. Then position the wheelchair so that the person can easily move out of it. Move the brake to make sure that it is locked, and then lift the person up and move them to the desired location. Make sure that you are supporting their body as you do this. Once you have reached your destination, slowly lower them into a seated position in the chair. Double-check the brakes again before you let go of the wheelchair. Finally, check with the individual to ensure that they are comfortable and secure in the wheelchair.
What are the safety precautions to take when transporting someone in a wheelchair?
Make sure that the wheelchair is properly secured in the vehicle before starting to drive.
Keep the person in the wheelchair properly secured with a seatbelt or other restraint.
Do not exceed the weight limit for the wheelchair and the vehicle.
Check the brakes and wheels on the wheelchair before transporting to ensure they are in good working condition.
Use caution when entering and exiting the vehicle with the wheelchair.
Always drive safely and obey traffic laws.
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