Wheelchair vans have made it possible for wheelchair users to become even more independent within their lives. With the right equipment, driving has become extremely possible for those that must be confined to a wheelchair. By simply contacting a manufacturer, they will be to evaluate your needs and assist you in choosing the proper equipment that works well for you.

The things the manufacturer will need to know, in order to help meet your needs include the road performance and motor functions that you need the wheelchair van to have. Other things they will ask will concern you medical history. After gaining the proper information, they will make recommendations to you after full evaluation of your needs. They may also be able to assist you in learning about your new wheelchair van by providing extensive training.

Many well known automotive manufactures have begun to create a wide range of specialized vehicle for wheelchair uses, like the wheelchair fan for example. Companies like General Motors, Toyota and Ford have all begun to offer a wide variety of these types of vehicles. Items that can be included or added to a wheelchair van could be items like:

* Wheelchair Carriers - These are a few varieties of these carriers, pick-up bed, car top or bumper mounted carriers. These can typically run at a cost of between $500 and $4,000.

* Hand Controls - These are specifically for wheelchair vans, these allow for electronic or push brakes and acceleration controls. This can typically run at a cost of between $360 and $2,000.

* Floors and Roofs - This allows for the floors to be lowered or the roof to be raised to make additional space for a wheelchair. The cost of this can range anywhere from $1,000 all the way to $19,000.

* Pedal Extensions - These are specifically for the wheelchair vans, these are attach to the accelerator and brake of the van allow the user to reach the brake or accelerator easily. The cost for extensions can run from $45 to $1,000.

* Keyless Entry- This will allow the wheelchair van user to unlock or lock the van with a remote. This can typically cost somewhere between $995 and $1,250

* Parking Brakes - The parking brake within a wheelchair van can be controlled by a switch electronically or by an extended handle manually. Costs for this item is generally $50 to $900.

* Steering Aids - Specifically for wheelchair vans, these steering wheels are much large than standard ones, they can come equipped for joystick steering or steering that is foot-controlled. These are generally used for people who have prosthesis, are quadriplegic or have grip strength that is limited. The costs for this item ranges from $50 to $350.

* Restraints - Specifically for wheelchair vans, these devices are designed to prevent a wheelchair from rolling about the van during movement. These restraints include manual restraints, tie downs, or electrical locking systems. There are also restraints for the upper torso to allow the driver to remain erect during driving. This can typically cost between $50 and $2,000.

It is extremely important to remember that prior to purchasing a wheelchair van or any accessories that can be used for adaptation, you must contact the department of motor vehicles to determine if you need any special license notations or training to make use of adaptive equipment. Safety is of utmost important on the road and off, make sure you know exactly what you should do with any of these devices prior to using them. The manufacturer of the vehicle or equipment should be readily available to show you how to properly use all the equipment and answer any questions that may arise during the use or training sessions.