How can I get my wheelchair/mobility scooter into my car?
There are a number of options available to help with stowing mobility equipment in a vehicle, this may include considering a particular technique, or vehicle adaptations to remove the physical moving and lifting for you.
If you would like advice on what options may be suitable for your needs, then contact your local Mobility Centre to arrange an assessment. Mobility centre staff will give advice to drivers or passengers in vehicles, including children and adults.
It may be that you assist someone else but are unable to lift a heavy piece of equipment or need to make the task easier due to your own health needs. The focus will be on best meeting your individual needs, protecting you from injury and considering financial cost.
The majority of mechanised adaptations are fitted to a vehicle and so cannot be swapped between different vehicles, with the exception of suitcase ramps. There are risks with using suitcase ramps as they are not attached to the vehicle, so it is recommended to have an assessment if you are considering this option. These are some of the other options you may consider with your assessment team:
Manual wheelchair – lightweight fixed frame
- Techniques to dismantle and load the wheelchair into the vehicle
- A robotic arm to take the wheelchair from the driver’s or passenger’s door and stow into the boot
- Options for loading the wheelchair behind the front passenger seats
Manual wheelchair – foldable
- Techniques to load the wheelchair into the vehicle boot
- A boot hoist and tie downs
- A rooftop wheelchair box
Powered wheelchair
- Boot hoist and tie downs
- Powered platform lift
- Wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) with ramp or platform lift
Mobility scooter
- Boot hoist and tie downs
- Wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV)
It is important to consider vehicle and equipment dimensions to ensure they are compatible. If you are going to purchase a vehicle or change your hire vehicle, always consult with your local mobility centre or adaptation specialist first.