Seating options for wheelchair passengers
Wheelchair passengers have the option of sitting in a number of positions in a wheelchair accessible vehicle. Wheelchair accessible vehicles are available in four seating plans; upfront alongside the driver, in the middle alongside rear passengers, behind the rear passengers and lastly to drive the vehicle from your wheelchair.
The upfront passenger position gives the wheelchair passenger an inclusive experience as they are positioned next to the driver. Access is via a ramp at the rear of the vehicle and the floor will typically be levelled. On some conversions it may also be lowered. When sat next to the driver the wheelchair passenger will be kept safe and secure with a four point wheelchair restraint system.
The majority of wheelchair accessible vehicles position the wheelchair passenger alongside the second-row passengers or occasionally behind the rear passengers. Sitting alongside the rear passengers offers a good view forwards as well as an inclusive experience. There will often be a seat both sides of the wheelchair position. Again, the passenger is kept safe as their wheelchair is tied down using high quality four point wheelchair restraints.
GM Coachwork are leaders in the field of drive-from wheelchair vehicles and specialists in pre-owned wheelchair driver vehicles. Driving from your wheelchair gives you the maximum independence. You will typically operate a powered tailgate and ramp, or lift, from your key fob before manoeuvring yourself into the vehicle and into the driving position where your wheelchair will lock into a docking device to keep you secure when driving.
There are a variety of ways for the wheelchair to gain access to the vehicle, the most common being a ramp in the rear. Alternatively, there are also lifts, winches and powered tailgates.