Labor Department Shows Employment Gain for Americans with Disabilities
More wheelchair accessible vehicles are flooding the highways these days. While the jobless rate for the general population seems to have hit a plateau, the employment landscape for Americans with disabilities shows that “promise” is the word for 2013. Experts tout systems like the Ticket to Work program, the Work Opportunity Tax Credit and the Americans with Disabilities Act for the rise in opportunities being given to individuals with disabilities in the workplace today.
The end of 2012 showed a steady decrease in the unemployment rate for Americans with disabilities. The unemployment rate for people with disabilities fell to 11.7 percent in December, according to statistics from the U.S. Department of Labor. December’s rate is down from the 12.7 percent reported in November. With the decrease, December marked the fourth consecutive month that the unemployment rate declined for those with disabilities.
There hasn’t actually been a study done showing the increase of wheelchair accessible vehicles traffic, but The Labor Department did begin tracking employment rates of people with disabilities in late 2008. Enough data is not yet available to show proven seasonal trends among this population, so statistics for this group are not seasonally adjusted. Reports are now released monthly on the most up to date statistics of unemployment among Americans with disabilities.
While we are seeing more wheelchair accessible vehicles on the roads and the increase in jobs available to people with disabilities is a promising step forward for 2013, the unemployment rate for people with disabilities remains higher than the national average. The economy as a whole added 146,000 jobs in November 2012, lowering the unemployment count down to 7.7 percent.
To stay informed on the unemployment rate for Americans with disabilities, visit http://www.bls.gov/.
This mobility safety update has been brought to you by NMEDA – the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association. Do you need information on how to make your vehicle wheelchair accessible or upgraded with the latest and most convenient features? Contact a NMEDA dealer in your local area. Your local NMEDA member is a mobility equipment and accessibility expert!
Agor Enterprises provides and designs vehicle and in home mobility solutions making the world accessible for people with disabilities. Agor Enterprises is a member of NMEDA and is QAP certified. Agor Enterprises is committed to providing the highest standard of safety and service in the industry. Built on the principal that dedication, service to the customer, and quality are paramount in running a successful business, Agor Enterprises continues to be a leader in customized solutions for the physically challenged. Agor Enterprises has also equipped golf carts, lawn mowers, tractors, and houses with various adaptive devices. We continue to welcome challenges to provide solutions that enable independence.
These days, there is a wide variety of conversion options available for mobility-challenged drivers and passengers who seek to upgrade their vehicles. If you're new to the world of mobility conversions, stepping into a dealership can be an overwhelming experience. However, by doing the proper research, you can acquire the knowledge necessary to shop with confidence.
Below are 10 points to keep in mind when shopping for conversion upgrades and conversion vehicles. BraunAbility is the world's largest provider of wheelchair-accessible minivans. The company's president, Nick Gutwein, was kind enough to contribute to this article by sharing his insight.
1. Know your options. 
Thankfully, you have many alternatives from which to choose when it comes to mobility upgrades. You could install a scooter lift on your vehicle that lifts your scooter or chair and puts it in the trunk. You could install seats that articulate and lift the driver into and out of the vehicle. And of course, you could also opt to convert your vehicle with a ramp for wheelchair access. Which upgrade is best for you? The answer will depend largely upon just how mobile you are.
2. Tap your dealer's expertise.
An informed dealer can help you make sense of the various choices available to you, and can guide you toward the upgrade that best suits your needs. "Maybe the most important thing is to have a local dealer who understands your disability," says Gutwein. "The dealer can help you decide whether to go for a scooter lift, articulating seat or a full van conversion.
3. Choose an accredited dealer.
Mobility dealers differ from regular car dealers in that they need to have 24-hour, 7-day-a-week service capability; if your conversion vehicle has a breakdown, your dealer is expected to be on call to help you address the problem. The dealer's mechanics are also expected to have training that meets certain standards. The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) is an organization dedicated to advocating for the provision of safe, reliable modifications in the conversion market. NMEDA offers a Quality Assurance Program (QAP) that's the only nationally recognized accreditation program for the adaptive mobility industry. Dealers who participate in the QAP must meet high standards regarding the services that they provide. Notes Gutwein: "If it's not a QAP dealer, it's a crap shoot."
4. Know the value of experience. 
The industry has a lot of people who do customized conversions. You want to avoid someone with a garage shop whose work in this segment is limited to three or four conversions a year; it's very important to choose a dealer who has a history and track record of performance. Look at the number of vans they've converted. How big is the company? Do they have customer satisfaction information? Is there data that shows that customers who've bought from them are happy with the product?
5. Get references.
Dealers or manufacturers should be able to provide you with recommendations of people who've purchased from them in the past. Get in touch with these references, and find out whether they're happy with the service they've received.
6. Consider the warranty.
If you're converting a new vehicle for wheelchair access, you'll want the conversion to offer the same warranty coverage that you get on the chassis: If there's 3-year/36,000-mile coverage on the chassis, for example, that's what you should get on the warranty. Though not all companies provide this, you'll get this level of coverage from a handful of top-tier converters.
7. Get the right fit.
If you're looking at potential conversion vehicles, one of the most important things to consider is the fit. Is the vehicle big enough, given your chair and your size, for you to easily enter and move around in? Also, is it big enough to accommodate the number of passengers that you typically carry? For some, a smaller SUV like the Honda Element will be large enough to do the trick, while others may have to opt for a minivan.
8. Decide whether you want a rear-entry or side-entry modification.
With conversion vehicles, you'll have the option of having your modification accommodate either rear or side entry. In a side-entry van, you can access both the mid-section and front of the vehicle while remaining in your chair. With rear-entry vans, you can typically only access the rear and mid-section of the vehicle while remaining seated. How narrow is your parking space? If you frequently face tight parking spaces, you might be better served by a rear-entry van. "Eighty-seven percent of the market is side entry, but it's still an important question," opines Gutwein.
9. Know the pros and cons of purchasing the chassis separately versus buying the vehicle pre-made.
If you're shopping for a conversion vehicle, you have the choice of either purchasing the vehicle pre-made, or buying a new chassis and then taking it to a conversion shop. There are time savings and convenience benefits associated with buying the vehicle pre-made. However, there may be cost savings associated with buying the chassis separately, if you're able to get a better deal from a non-mobility-focused dealer.
10. Prepare for a long day. 
In the mobility market, the dealer works as a consultant, carefully analyzing your needs with the aim of coming up with the product that represents the best solution. As a result, the selling process is typically a long one. Expect to spend at least a few hours in the dealership. You can shorten the process by arriving at the dealership with a clear picture of what your needs are, and what you'd like to accomplish with the conversion.
Agor Enterprises provides and designs vehicle and in home mobility solutions making the world accessible for people with disabilities. Agor Enterprises is a member of NMEDA and is QAP certified. Agor Enterprises is committed to providing the highest standard of safety and service in the industry. Built on the principal that dedication, service to the customer, and quality are paramount in running a successful business, Agor Enterprises continues to be a leader in customized solutions for the physically challenged. Agor Enterprises has also equipped golf carts, lawn mowers, tractors, and houses with various adaptive devices. We continue to welcome challenges to provide solutions that enable independence.
When you require accessible accommodations and travel arrangements, visiting family and friends half way across the country can put a pin on any holiday plans. Rushing through an airport to make connecting flights just to be seated in a less than spacious airliner is a proven chore for anyone and can barricade people with disabilities from making their way back home regardless of the time of year. However, there’s a multitude of opportunities regarding accessible travel that can make your travels more comfortable and streamline your journey to get you where you need to be without a worry.
There are a few things to keep in mind in planning your getaway to gather with loved ones.
Prepare! Prepare! Prepare! Have important phone numbers on hand at all times and call ahead to ensure you know the best route to reach your destination. You may find yourself in unfamiliar territory or end up in at odds with weather delays and insufferable crowds, but don’t worry. There are always people available to help you. Require a wheelchair to make your way through to the gate? Call the airline! Provided you arrive to the airport with ample time to make your flight, your airline should be able to ensure that you arrive to your gate comfortably and in a timely manner. Check with your local AAA Travel Agency or highway patrol to learn of any major roadblocks or detours.
Security checks are a persistent, but pertinent part of travel. Make sure you have the documentation you need to validate your equipment to security personnel. And always give yourself ample time to make it through the extensive lines and heightened checkpoints that come with the holiday season.
Stick to the mainstream when needing a more fully equipped airline. Major air carriers are more likely to possess eligible equipment to make your flight experience more enjoyable. Major highways are less likely to have major lane closures during peak travel times and remain well lit into the nighttime hours.
Details! Details! Details! Deals are appealing when booking a hotel, but ensure you’re getting more than what you pay for. Hotels with less than 50 rooms are not required by law to have roll-in showers and while they may comply with the ADA, they may also have bathtubs. The best-priced hotel might be lacking the accessibility you need to stay clean, or stack a flight of steps between you and your room with no elevator in sight. Hotels.com serves as an informative resource that combines best prices with services and amenities requested. Simply check to search hotels with accessibility options available and rest assured that you’re well taken care of upon your arrival. Remember, you should never have to pay more because you are living with a disability.
A safe landing is just the beginning. If you’re flying in to see your most missed faces, you’ll want reliable and safe transportation to and from the airport, and everywhere in between. Don’t dismiss yourself as unable to partake in the Black Friday festivities, call ahead and count on accessible vehicle providers like a local NMEDA dealer to get you where ever you want to go once you’ve landed. You might make grandma a little jealous when you roll in on your adaptable hot wheels, but rest assured that there’s plenty of room for the whole family to ride.
Keep in mind that Agor Enterprises does offer Wheelchair Accessible Rental Vans both in the Rochester and Syracuse, New York area. We also offer delivery of the van to the airport. If you are traveling to family or friends and would prefer to drive, we also offer you the opportunity to rent one of Agor Enterprises Wheelchair Accessible Vans to do just that and enjoy the comfort of one of our Dodge Grand Caravans or Chrysler Town & Country, lowered floor, side entry ramp vans. Remember it is important to make these reservations in advance due to the high demand for Wheelchair Accessible Rental Vans around the Holidays. Agor Enterprises looks forward to helping you meet your Holiday travel needs.
Agor Enterprises provides and designs vehicle and in home mobility solutions making the world accessible for people with disabilities. Agor Enterprises is a member of NMEDA and is QAP certified. Agor Enterprises is committed to providing the highest standard of safety and service in the industry. Built on the principal that dedication, service to the customer, and quality are paramount in running a successful business, Agor Enterprises continues to be a leader in customized solutions for the physically challenged. Agor Enterprises has also equipped golf carts, lawn mowers, tractors, and houses with various adaptive devices. We continue to welcome challenges to provide solutions that enable independence.
Getting Back
Behind the Wheel
by Amy Lane, OTR/L, CDRS, and Guy A. Hanford
Driving a vehicle is an independent living skill that we often take for granted. People who have temporarily or permanently lost the ability to drive realize firsthand the loss of independence, autonomy and day-to-day functioning. For those who are attempting to enter, engage or retain employment, the lack of independent transportation causes a substantial impediment to their vocational pursuits and financial security. Finding a job in today’s economy can be tough. It is even tougher when one lacks transportation. Returning veterans who have been wounded in the Middle East conflict often experience similar challenges. Limb amputations, burns, brain injury, posttraumatic stress disorder and other physical, cognitive and emotional injuries need to be considered in one’s quest for independent transportation. Just as the number of civilians who are unsure about returning to driving after an injury, the thousands of injured returning American troops may not even realize their potential to return to driving, unless given the proper evaluation, training and equipment options.
Determining Suitable Vehicle Adaptive Equipment
A cost-effective method in determining the most suitable vehicle adaptive equipment is to work with a driver rehabilitation specialist (DRS), who will consider a person’s particular set of functional needs and abilities. Certified driver rehabilitation specialists (CDRSs) have undergone specialized education and training and have obtained a specialty certification from the Association of Driver Rehabilitation Specialists (ADED). They are knowledgeable in planning, coordinating and implementing driving services for individuals who are exploring adaptive equipment and transportation options. While many driver rehabilitation specialists hold certification as a CDRS, certification is not required to practice driver rehabilitation.
Vehicle Modifications
- Mechanical hand controls
- Left-foot accelerator
- Reduced-effort steering or braking systems
- Joystick driving systems
- Servo brake and accelerator controls
- Steering devices, such as a spinner knob, amputee ring
- Emergency brake extension
- Turn signal crossover
- Modified secondary controls (turn signals, lights, etc…)
- Accessory mirrors to minimize blind zones
- Seat belt extension
- Pedal extensions
- Wheelchair securement systems
- Scooter lifts and stowage devices
- Wheelchair lifts
- Van conversions
- Transfer/turning seats
Driver evaluation and training programs are offered in a variety of settings, such as rehabilitation hospitals, outpatient therapy departments, university-affiliated programs, state-operated facilities, Veterans Administration (VA) hospitals or independent private driving schools. Professionals who work in this field often are ADED members and abide by its best practices. Driver rehabilitation programs typically offer comprehensive clinical and behind-the-wheel evaluations. On-road evaluations use information gathered from the clinical assessment and may include the use of adaptive driving equipment, if indicated. Additional education, training and vehicle modification recommendations are completed based on the driver’s performance.
Proper Installation of Vehicle Adaptive Equipment
The installation of adaptive driving equipment and vehicle modifications should be completed by modifiers who adhere to guidelines established by the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA). This organization is dedicated to expanding opportunities for people with disabilities to drive or be transported in vehicles modified with mobility equipment. It is recommended to work with a dealer that is certified by the manufacturers of the equipment to install and service the modifications, in addition to being an NMEDA Quality Assurance Program (QAP) participant.
Available Funding Options
Funding options for driver rehabilitation, adaptive equipment and vehicle modifications can be limiting. Insurance companies vary and may reimburse in certain regions and in certain situations. It is worth contacting specific insurance companies to investigate if the provider will cover these services. Worker’s compensation or automobile insurance companies may cover the associated costs if the need for these services and vehicle modifications are due to a work-related or automobile-related accident. Vocational rehabilitation provides services to people who have a disability that presents an impediment to employment. These agencies may assist in funding driving-related services for those who have plans to prepare for, enter into or retain employment.
Opportunities for Veterans
The VA may provide funding for veterans who seek transportation options. The VA offers an Automobile Adaptive Equipment (AAE) Program for the purpose of enabling veterans to enter, exit or operate a motor vehicle. The veterans must be evaluated by a DRS for all vehicle modification needs and AAE needs. For service connected veterans needing a modified accessible vehicle (for wheelchair or scooter accessibility), the VA recently increased its one-time Automobile Grant Program to $18,900. Veterans who think they may qualify are encouraged to contact the prosthetic department at their nearest VA medical center. Finally, some automobile manufacturers offer rebate programs, up to $1,000, toward the purchase of eligible adaptive mobility equipment for new vehicles. A qualified mobility dealer can provide further details about the mobility assistance programs and procedures for reimbursement. Driving and independent transportation is instrumental for one’s participation in life activities. Whether that life role is a student, parent, worker or active-duty service member, the need and desire for independence remains the same. Adaptive driving equipment and vehicle modifications, with proper education and training, provide a multitude of options for those desiring independent mobility. Collaboration between drivers, family members, healthcare providers, driver rehabilitation specialists and NMEDA equipment dealers is critical to ensure the safety of those using adapted motor vehicles.
I used to drive with my right leg and one hand.
Now there is no right leg. I have two hands.
The driving teacher was nice, but the tests were hard.
Distance vision, abstract forms, and reaction times were tested.
With one hand on the knob on the steering wheel and one on the handle to the gas and brake,
I had to start and stop, within six seconds, like a movie take.
Once I mastered the test car, the real car and road awaited.
The engine started.
The car began to roll.
I hoped it was under my control, but honking horns said no.
Cars to the left of me, cars to the right, cars in front of me, then next was a light.
Green, yellow, red, I wished I were further ahead.
The parking lots were fine.
The side streets were okay.
The main streets were very busy, but the highways were a step away.
My first solo was to work, a careful journey of a mile.
Like a teenager learning to drive, it made me smile.
It took time to feel in control.
The days, the weeks and the months passed by, but I continued to try.
Now a few years later, I drive like days of old, with one hand on the knob and one on the handle,
I go.
– Herb Hartman, MD
Related Resources
BraunAbility
www.braunability.com
800-843-5438
Adaptive Driving Alliance
www.adamobility.com
623-434-0722
Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists
www.driver-ed.org
800-290-2344
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
www.nhtsa.gov
888-327-4236
National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association
www.nmeda.org
800-833-0427
Agor Enterprises provides and designs vehicle and in home mobility solutions making the world accessible for people with disabilities. Agor Enterprises is a member of NMEDA and is QAP certified. Agor Enterprises is committed to providing the highest standard of safety and service in the industry. Built on the principal that dedication, service to the customer, and quality are paramount in running a successful business, Agor Enterprises continues to be a leader in customized solutions for the physically challenged. Agor Enterprises has also equipped golf carts, lawn mowers, tractors, and houses with various adaptive devices. We continue to welcome challenges to provide solutions that enable independence.
When deciding what type of seating you need for driving it’s important to know all of your options before choosing. Accessible vehicles usually can accommodate two types of seating options: wheelchair tie-downs, where the driver mans the vehicle from their wheelchair; and transfer seat bases, which are installed to allow transferring from the wheelchair to the front seat. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages depending on the driver’s needs.
Transfer Seats
Transfer seats allow a passenger or driver to get to the front seats of the vehicle. Transfer seat bases are electronically controlled and can move the seat back, forward, up and down and sideways. Transfer seats allow for maximum entry and exit space to accommodate disability needs ranging from minor to severe. There are a wide variety of transfer seats.
Either a full turning automotive seat or a transfer seat base can be installed into most types and brands of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, wagons, crossovers, minivans, pickup trucks and full-size vans. Since it is possible to utilize the original factory seat on top of the transfer seat base, individuals continue to have the benefit of any power seat options that they have already in that seat, such as tilting or lumbar support. As well, the seat will match the rest of the interior and will continue to be pleasing to the eye.
Transfer seats are typically used by an individual who has the ability to transfer into the driver seat rather than having to drive from their wheelchair. Today’s transfer seats have a lifting capacity of up to 600 pounds, so the vast majority of people can be accommodated. However, people who are exceptionally tall or have long legs may not have enough room to swivel. An individual should meet with a mobility specialist dealer where they can properly evaluate these types of situations carefully before a purchase is made.
The 6-way seat is essentially the same as the 4-way seat, but with the added benefit of being able to also go up and down. While the 6-way seat can be more expensive, it is generally the best choice. The reason that the 6-way seat is the better option is that the up/down motion allows an individual to position the seat lower than their wheelchair when transferring into the seat and then higher than their wheelchair when they are transferring out of their seat. In essence, an individual is then using gravity to do their work for them and are therefore avoiding the strain of lifting their body higher. Leather and vinyl tend to be far easier to use because they enable someone to slide on the seat. Fabrics generally have more friction and inhibit a person to slide; this forces an individual to exert more, or have to lift their weight over the fabric.
Turning automotive seating (TAS) uses the vehicle’s original seat combined with a power base that extends out the door usually about 20 inches and most tilt forward about 6 inches to make boarding safe and easy. When not needed, it functions as a normal seat.
Power transfer seat bases usually require minimal installation time. These bases do not require alteration of the factory seat to be installed and are made with heavy gauge frames, actuators and controls that make them easy to use.
Agor Enterprises provides and designs vehicle and in home mobility solutions making the world accessible for people with disabilities. Agor Enterprises is a member of NMEDA and is QAP certified. Agor Enterprises is committed to providing the highest standard of safety and service in the industry. Built on the principal that dedication, service to the customer, and quality are paramount in running a successful business, Agor Enterprises continues to be a leader in customized solutions for the physically challenged. Agor Enterprises has also equipped golf carts, lawn mowers, tractors, and houses with various adaptive devices. We continue to welcome challenges to provide solutions that enable independence.
When deciding what type of seating you need for driving, it’s important to know all of your options before choosing. Accessible vehicles usually can accommodate two types of seating options: wheelchair tie downs, where the driver mans the vehicle from their wheelchair; and transfer seat bases, which are installed to allow easy transferring from the wheelchair to the front seat. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages depending on the driver’s needs.
Wheelchair Tie Downs
For wheelchair users who cannot transfer, Wheelchair Tie-Downs and Occupant Restraints Systems often referred to as WTORS are used. The most common type of WTORS is the manual four-point system, consisting of four straps that attach to the wheelchair and the van floor. These tie-downs are very effective and can secure a wide range of wheelchair types, but they require that another person attach and tighten the straps.
Wheelchair frames should include four easily accessible brackets for attaching the tie-down straps. If the wheelchair does not have designated strapping points, four structural points on the wheelchair base or seat frame must be identified and used to secure the wheelchair. When using this system, it is very important to ensure the tie-downs are not connected to any movable part of a wheelchair.
The electric restraint system contains an anchored device mounted on the floor of the vehicle and its connecting part mounted to the bottom of the wheelchair. The wheelchair occupant guides the two pieces together, and when they are properly locked, an audible click is heard. Some electric models also contain an alarm system that will have a buzzer or light to indicate the system is not properly locked in place. These systems require the addition of adaptive hardware to the wheelchair for engaging with the docking device mounted to the vehicle floor. No matter the system used to secure a wheelchair and its occupant for travel in vehicle, the wheelchair occupant must always wear a vehicle seat belt and/or shoulder harness to properly secure the wheelchair occupant to the wheelchair, which is in turn securely mounted to the vehicle floor. Most electric restraint systems can be used by the driver alone and only requires one hand to operate.
Securement and restraint systems need to be properly sized and fitted for your type of wheelchair and vehicle. Contact us with further questions and for a demonstration of different wheelchair tie downs.
Agor Enterprises provides and designs vehicle and in home mobility solutions making the world accessible for people with disabilities. Agor Enterprises is a member of NMEDA and is QAP certified. Agor Enterprises is committed to providing the highest standard of safety and service in the industry. Built on the principal that dedication, service to the customer, and quality are paramount in running a successful business, Agor Enterprises continues to be a leader in customized solutions for the physically challenged. Agor Enterprises has also equipped golf carts, lawn mowers, tractors, and houses with various adaptive devices. We continue to welcome challenges to provide solutions that enable independence.
Now that you have made the decision to purchase a wheelchair accessible vehicle, you need to shop around for the best provider. Many folks turn to a mobility specialist dealer. Here are some considerations you may want to keep in mind when doing your research and shopping.
- Stock – What brands of vehicle does the dealer offer? Do they have a wide-range of vehicles for you to choose from? Do they provide both new and used choices? Do they convert other vehicles besides vans, like SUVs and trucks?
- Range of Conversions – Does the company offer the ramp and product options that are specified to your needs? Do their vehicles provide the safety features and equipment you need?
- Aesthetics – Which vehicle best fits your personality and will keep you happy in the long run?
- Location – Is the dealer close to where you live?
- Funds and Financing – Is purchasing from this provider beneficial to you in terms of cost? Do they provide a range of priced vehicles, or are all of their products around the same price?
- Reviews – What have others said about this company? Are they a reputable dealer or have they had issues? Does the dealer provide feedback from previous customers or is it hard to find customer reviews?
- On-Site Evaluations – In addition to the evaluation from my Certified Rehabilitation Specialist, will I receive another evaluation from the dealer? How will they know the equipment will fit properly? Will it be safe for me to drive?
- Training – Once I have purchased my vehicle, how will I learn to use my new equipment? Will the dealer provide me training? Will they be available to address any questions I may have regarding the use of my equipment?
- Customer Care – What does the company provide for you? Do they offer incentives like 24-hour local emergency service, warranties and/or trained Ability Specialists that can help you in your decision?
- Dealers – Is the mobility specialist well informed and up-to-date on the technical skills necessary in today’s mobility market? Do they belong to the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association – the industry association for safe and reliable transportation options for people with disabilities?
Each of these factors are important to consider during the buying process. Before making a decision, contact Agor Enterprises (your local NMEDA dealer) to assure the needs of your physical disability are met with your driving independence top of mind.
Agor Enterprises provides and designs vehicle and in home mobility solutions making the world accessible for people with disabilities. Agor Enterprises is a member of NMEDA and is QAP certified. Agor Enterprises is committed to providing the highest standard of safety and service in the industry. Built on the principal that dedication, service to the customer, and quality are paramount in running a successful business, Agor Enterprises continues to be a leader in customized solutions for the physically challenged. Agor Enterprises has also equipped golf carts, lawn mowers, tractors, and houses with various adaptive devices. We continue to welcome challenges to provide solutions that enable independence.
Get all the Mileage You Can
As gas can be a bit of challenge to get for drivers with disabilities, you’ll want to make sure your accessible vehicle can get all the mileage possible before stopping to refuel. Below is a list of some vehicles that are great for conversions and their respective mileages to help you choose which is best for your needs.
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Toyota Sienna FWD Wheelchair Accessible 3.5L – 23 mpg highway, 17 mpg city
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Honda Odyssey FWD Wheelchair Accessible 3.5L – 23 mpg highway, 16 mpg city
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Dodge Grand Caravan FWD SE 3.3L – 24 mpg highway, 17 mpg city
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Chrysler Town & Country FWD Wheelchair Accessible 3.3L – 24 mpg highway, 17 mpg city
Getting Gas is Getting Easier
For drivers with disabilities, a trip to the gas station is inconvenient at best and dangerous at worst, but we are starting to see – on a rather small level but significant nonetheless – more counties take action to make fueling up less of a hassle.
Changes to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regarding the reach heights of operable parts at pumping stations went into effect March 15. This change updated the 1990 rule that stated gas stations must provide refueling assistance without extra charges and let patrons know that assistance is available. The new change to the Act is meant to give those with disabilities the independence to pump their own gas, but it may still be difficult and dangerous for drivers with disabilities to refuel even with these lower, more accessible buttons. This is why some counties have adapted laws requiring stations to display placards at pumps carrying the International Symbol of Accessibility logo – the white wheelchair on a blue background – with a number to call to get an attendant; intercom systems could be used as well.
Both Hillsborough County and Broward County in Florida have implemented this law stating that it’s easy and inexpensive to work in. One gas station owner spent about $100 on the placards and gets about four to five requests a week. He says the implementation was easy and simple and is something that needs to be done everywhere.
These county mandates are a step beyond the requirements already found in the new ADA law and eliminate the danger that comes with unloading a wheelchair or ramp. It also helps those who do not have strong controlling abilities to use the pump hose or nozzles at self-serve gas pumps. These laws are clearly a great way to help those in need at pumping stations and should be implemented throughout the US and Canada; what are your thoughts? Would you like to see this law in your area?
For more information, call the Dept. of Justice’s ADA Information Line at (800) 514-0301 (voice) or (800) 514-0383 (TDD).
Agor Enterprises provides and designs vehicle and in home mobility solutions making the world accessible for people with disabilities. Agor Enterprises is a member of NMEDA and is QAP certified. Agor Enterprises is committed to providing the highest standard of safety and service in the industry. Built on the principal that dedication, service to the customer, and quality are paramount in running a successful business, Agor Enterprises continues to be a leader in customized solutions for the physically challenged. Agor Enterprises has also equipped golf carts, lawn mowers, tractors, and houses with various adaptive devices. We continue to welcome challenges to provide solutions that enable independence.
When it comes to finding the right transportation solution for your needs the options are almost endless. There’s minivans, trucks, wheelchair and scooter carriers, lifts, ramps, hand controls, transfer seats etc. To ensure you are getting the right mobility products for your specific needs it’s important to get the help of an experienced mobility equipment dealer. Agor Enterprises has been in business for many years and over that time have gained the knowledge and expertise to fit you with the very best product for your situation.
Quality mobility equipment dealers will meet with you in person to help determine your individual needs and what adaptive vehicle or equipment is best for you. They’ll ask you questions about you, your disability, your wheelchair or scooter, how you’ll be using the vehicle, will there be additional drivers, your budget etc.
It’s important that you ask the mobility equipment dealer some specific questions, as well. You’ll need to find out if they offer 24-hour emergency assistance, are their technicians trained and certified, and are they a NMEDA (National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association) member. You then have to ask yourself if you feel like they’re easy to work with and ultimately if you want to do business with this dealership.
Whether you buy new or used will depend on your finances but the most important thing is that the vehicle is designed to fit your requirements. Your local mobility dealer is the key to getting you into the right vehicle. Based on your disability they’ll determine what the best transportation solution is for you.
Agor Enterprises provides and designs vehicle and in home mobility solutions making the world accessible for people with disabilities. Agor Enterprises is a member of NMEDA and is QAP certified. Agor Enterprises is committed to providing the highest standard of safety and service in the industry. Built on the principal that dedication, service to the customer, and quality are paramount in running a successful business, Agor Enterprises continues to be a leader in customized solutions for the physically challenged. Agor Enterprises has also equipped golf carts, lawn mowers, tractors, and houses with various adaptive devices. We continue to welcome challenges to provide solutions that enable independence.
Sometimes the hardest part of buying a wheelchair van is understanding the words that are coming out of the salesmans mouth. With so many industry specific terms it can get confusing, here are ten terms you should understand.
1. Oringinal Equipment Manufacturer
When a salesman talks about an original equipment manufacturer, or OEM, they are reffereing to the company that originally manufactured the van. At our dealership the OEM's are Honda, Toyota, Dodge, and Chrysler.
2. Converter
A Wheelchair van does not leave the OEM factory as a wheelchair van. It leaves the OEM as an ordinary passenger van. Enter the wheelchair van converter, this is the company that performs the wheelchair van conversion.
3. Van Conversion
A van conversion is the process where a van is customized to accomidate a person in a wheelchair. This can involve lowering the floor, adding a lift or ramp, installing a kneeling system, modifying a power door system, and customizing the interior of the vehicle. Each van conversion is then crash tested for safety.
4. Hand Controls
These are the controls added to a vehicle to make it possible for drivers without the use of their legs to operate the vehicle.Since they wont be able to use their feet for gass and break these two functions will be operated by hand. They are added at the Mobility Euipment Dealership.
5. Kneeling System
With this system the van actually lowers its self closer to the ground to decrease the angle of the wheelchair ramp for easy loading. This type of suspension is not standard on passenger vans so the converter must modify the suspension during the conversion process.
6. Crash Test
Converting a van is a big deal. Any kind of modification to they chassis can effect its safety. Even though the van was crash tested by the OEM the van needs to be re-crash tested once a conversion has been made. For your safety only buy van conversions that have passed their crash test.
7. Online Sellers
When looking for the least expensive car, van or accessible equipment for a loved one with a disability, Internet-only dealers may seem to have great deals. But, there are many disadvantages from buying your adaptive vehicle online. You can’t see, feel and try out the product. And most products for those with disabilities must be customized to that person. If it doesn’t fit their height, weight or special needs, it will cost much more to have it altered than just the original price.
8. Mobility Equipment Dealer
When you buy locally from a Mobility Equipment Dealer, you can see, feel and try-out the product, meet the owner or staff and shake their hands. You will also receive an in-person evaluation before your purchase so you can be sure you are getting the right solution customized to your needs.
A local Mobility Equipment Dealer will also perform your routine maitanance and service your vehicle in the event of a break down. They are there for you from the first sale through all stages of ownership.
9. Mobility Consultant
I guess we could call them salesmen, but they are so much more than that! They take the time to understand your needs, your expierence, and what you are going through. Then they work with you to find the right mobility solution customized to your personal needs.
10. NEMDA
NMEDA stands for the National Mobility Equipment Dealer Association. NMEDA dealers are required to adhere to the safety standards of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Transport Canada, F/CMVSS and NMEDA’s Guidelines.
The majority of NMEDA Dealer members are involved in the Quality Assurance Program (QAP), an accreditation program that promotes and ensures quality, safety, and reliability within the industry for mobility equipment. QAP is the only program of its kind and offers buyers additional advantages such as 24-hour emergency service. Transportation is the key to freedom, NMEDA is the key
to quality transportation.
Agor Enterprises provides and designs vehicle and in home mobility solutions making the world accessible for people with disabilities. Agor Enterprises is a member of NMEDA and is QAP certified. Agor Enterprises is committed to providing the highest standard of safety and service in the industry. Built on the principal that dedication, service to the customer, and quality are paramount in running a successful business, Agor Enterprises continues to be a leader in customized solutions for the physically challenged. Agor Enterprises has also equipped golf carts, lawn mowers, tractors, and houses with various adaptive devices. We continue to welcome challenges to provide solutions that enable independence.