Accessible vehicles and equipment for people with disabilities in a wheelchair aren’t that difficult to find. It’s finding a dependable one at an affordable price that fits the unique needs of a particular person with disabilities that can be a little overwhelming.
If you Google “handicap van,” you’ll be sifting through more than 4 million results. Google “hand controls” and almost 2 million results pop up.
Rather than researching the background of hundreds of unknown companies, begin with one that is a proven, reliable company: a mobility dealer who is a member of a national trade association and must undergo a mandatory inspection/audit process at least annually by an independent auditing firm—one that offers expert sales, installation and 24-hour emergency service.
To find such a gem, visit the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) and click on “Dealer Locator” to find a mobility equipment manufacturer, dealer, Driver Rehabilitation Specialist and other professionals near you—companies with a proven track record of assisting people with disabilities.
All members are required to follow the safety standards of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Americans with Disabilities Act, to adhere to NMEDA’s Quality Assurance Program (QAP) and comply with guidelines set by NMEDA.
Whether you’re searching for a cutting-edge new handicap accessible van, pre-owned vehicle or equipment, a NMEDA dealer is qualified to help with the following:
- Help find financing for a new or used handicap accessible vehicle or equipment
- Take your present vehicle as a trade-in
- Convert your existing vehicle (if it can be modified, as not all can be)
- If they don’t have the vehicle you want, they’ll find it
- Some even rent wheelchair accessible vehicles
- Work with Driver Rehabilitation Specialists to get you behind the wheel.
The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) is an advocate for mobility and accessibility for drivers with disabilities. If you need help with converting or buying a handicap accessible car, truck or van, please consider one of our mobility equipment dealers.