Updated June 08, 2015.

It’s no secret that a wheelchair or scooter lift promotes continuing mobility and independence for people with physical disabilities. Any van can become accessible after undergoing both structural and mechanical modifications.

There are two basic types of lifts. One is for loading and unloading unoccupied wheelchairs and scooters. The other is for moving an occupied wheelchair into and out of the van.

Unoccupied Wheelchair or Scooter Lifts for a Handicap Van

Some lifts can only handle unoccupied wheelchairs or scooters. They are perfect for people who can get in and out of their wheelchair or scooter on their own.

If you drive, but rely on a device to get around at your destination, consider an unoccupied lift. They spare you the struggle of loading and unloading your wheelchair or scooter. Some people cannot manage this at all. For them, an unoccupied lift can be the difference between independence and dependence.

Basic Lift Styles

There are two basic styles that can convert your vehicle into a functioning handicap van:

• Swing arm-style lift: The swing arm style is an automatically controlled arm that’s securely affixed to the vehicle. The user straps their wheelchair or scooter to the arm. The arm then picks up and secures the equipment in place safely for a moving car.
• Platform lift: With a platform lift the user automatically lowers the platform with the push of a button. They can then steer their mobility device onto the platform. After securing the unoccupied scooter or wheelchair as directed, they may then use the controls to elevate the platform. Some hold a wheelchair or scooter outside the van; others lift and then load it inside.

Occupied Wheelchair Lifts for a Handicap Van

Occupied wheelchair lifts are great for loved ones or caregivers. They automatically lift, load, unload, and lower occupied wheelchairs or scooters. Consider this equipment for a person who cannot move in and out of a wheelchair or scooter on their own. This is a good alternative for caregivers whose own limitations prevent easy use of a ramp.

There are several styles of occupied wheelchair lifts:

• Single-post split platform lift: The single-post split platform list is relatively lightweight and space-efficient. They are good for children in wheelchairs.
• Dual-post split platform lifts: Dual-post split platform lifts are better suited for adults. For particularly large or heavy wheelchairs, standard dual-post platform lifts are a good pick.
  Under-vehicle lifts are affixed to the van’s exterior. Consider one of these if you don’t want to sacrifice interior room.
  

About the author: Chris Miller is the director of interactive marketing for The Mobility Resource, an online adaptive driving marketplace. His team helps people with disabilities regain driving freedom through vocational rehab, veteran affairs and several non-profit and private organizations.

A graduate of The University of Akron, Chris holds a bachelor of arts in public relations and consumer marketing. Prior to his time at The Mobility Resource, he was an account director at a Cleveland-based marketing communications firm. It was there he serviced accounts for major brands including; the Cleveland Wheelchair Cavaliers, Chevrolet, Reebok, ESPN and the U.S. Army. Chris has been published on disability.gov, ADAP.org and blog.NCPAD.org, to name a few.

Born with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a form of muscular dystrophy, he is passionate about all things disability. In his free time, Chris enjoys spending time with his daughter while they dish up amazing meals for friends and family. Say hello to him on twitter @SweetMobility.

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