Advice for wheelchair user buying new car

PaulD112

Hi, everyone. My name is Paul. I'm a 24 year old wheelchair user and I'm currently looking to buy a car. I've never had my own car before and I'm looking for advice about which type I should be looking for in relation to getting the wheelchair in and out of the car. In terms of my disability, I have full movement above my waist and I've no problems with strength. In particular, I'm wondering if I should only look for 3 door cars or if 4 door cars will offer enough room to maneuver my wheelchair in and out of the car. All input welcome.

Paul

Duff Man Jr.

There are lifestyle shows all over the country a few times a year which are full of dealers and cars, also I think there are specialist dealers. It sounds like you're looking for a normal car with hand controls, they're all different and it depends on your wheelchair. Just try a few until you find one that works.

CiDeRmAn

As said, it'll depend on the car you want and what you want to spend, as well as the type of chair you use and how easy it will be to position yourself into the drivers seat and get the chair into the car as well.
If you want to be able to lift yourself into the drivers seat from your chair, then fold the chair down and put it in the car behind you, you may have to look at a different chair, one that can be folded easily and stowed.
Alternatively, if you want to drive from the chair itself, there seem to be options, as well as getting into the car in the chair and transferring to the drivers seat afterwards.
Here's a link to a site that may have answers,
http://www.freedommobility.ie/

Johnboy1951

First and foremost I suggest you consult a short list of adaptation firms in your area, explaining your needs and listening to their suggestions.

Some vehicles are more suitable to certain adaptations than others.

In addition some vehicles are easier to enter and bring in the chair than others ..... and in addition it does depend on the type of chair in use.

Most wheelchair users I met used 2 door cars because the opening is wider and so it is easier to bring in the wheelchair.

I can only repeat ..... consult a few adaptation firms to get their views. Remember they are there to sell you gear so get a cross section of advice

The IWA also have support available for those selecting a vehicle for the first time. In my personal experience they too can be quite 'set in their views' so do not necessarily take their advice either.
Make up your own mind after getting as much advice as possible.

Good luck

FluffyAngel

http://www.southernmobility.ie/html/adapt_companies.html

hi op ,

theres a link there for you ,most adaption companys have cars that you try ete ..

i can really recomend the guys in litte island cork,down to earth and no bull****