The first thing many first time wheelchair users realize once they get their new chair is that although they are very mobile locally, they want to be able to take their wheelchair everywhere they go. This requires some sort of vehicle that can safely transport them and their wheelchair.
The first thing many first time wheelchair users realize once they get their new chair is that although they are very mobile locally, they want to be able to take their wheelchair everywhere they go. This requires some sort of vehicle that can safely transport them and their wheelchair. There is a lot that goes into choosing the right vehicle for you, which is discussed in our last article How to Select a Wheelchair Vehicle. Once you have decided what qualities your vehicle has to have to match your needs you need to choose a manufacturer. Most people do not know this, but a number of the major car manufacturers offer amazing deals for disabled individuals that allow them to save a large amount of money on their cars, vans and trucks. Here is information and reviews on the current best programs offered:
TOYOTA - http://www.toyota.com/html/mobility/
Toyota has a number of proven vehicles that are suitable for transporting you and your wheelchair , which include the Toyota Sienna, RAV4, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Scion xB and many more of their trucks, SUVs and sedans. The most commonly converted vehicle is the Toyota Sienna minivan, which can be modified to have a wheelchair ramp coming out of the rear hatch.
Toyota provides a cash reimbursement for up to $1000 for mobility modifications on their vehicles purchased through an authorized dealer and model year 2001 and later. Along with this cash reimbursement for modifications they will also help you with financing assuming good credit history.
GENERAL MOTORS - http://www.gm.com/vehicles/services/gm_mobility/
General Motors mobility assistance program is only eligible for new or unused 2008, 2009 or 2010 models. General Motors program allows you to get reimbursed for mobility modifications to areas such as vehicle entry, brake/accelerator systems, seats, steering system, driver position and many others.
GM will reimburse disabled individuals up to $1000 for covered mobility modifications to their new vehicles. Along with the $1000 reimbursement, they also offer an additional two years of free OnStar service for GM vehicles equipped with the service. OnStar can give an additional level of security to GM drivers as it can be used to call for assistance, find you and your vehicle, remote door unlock, automatic emergency assistance in a detected crash and roadside assistance.
FORD - http://www.mobilitymotoringprogram.com/
Ford offers the largest reimbursement out of the major manufacturers at $1,200. As long as you purchase a new Ford vehicle and apply for your reimbursement within 12 months of your purchase date you qualify.
Ford is one of the market leaders in creating car chassis’ for mobility modification and attends many mobility events. For a list of where Ford mobility reps will be presenting go here: http://www.mobilitymotoringprogram.com/events.mob. And to hear from some of their satisfied customers, go here: http://www.mobilitymotoringprogram.com/testimonial.mob
We have not listed all of the car manufacturer programs, only those we have personal experience with. If you have a program that you would like to see listed please contact us with the appropriate information and we will add it here.
Author: Lauren hill
About Author: Lauren Hill is the PR Director of WheelchairForMe.com - she has over 20 years experience in the consumer medical business
