superior van blog

Summer Vacations and Wheelchair Accessibility . . A New Way of Thinking

Posted on October 21, 2011

All too often I hear that someone has not been able to drive to their family member’s wedding, a family reunion, or just to the beach because there was no way to get them and their wheelchair there comfortably and conveniently. There are SO MANY options on the market these days to help ease this concern! If you haven’t investigated what’s now available in the wheelchair van market these days, you will be amazed.

You may be wondering why a lowered floor minivan is so important in this situation. Maybe someone is your family has offered to just put a ramp in the side door of their existing van? Here’s our David Letterman top 10 list of why that will not work:

10) Where will the ramp go when you are not using it?
9) You want me to go up that steep ramp? Who is pushing??
8.) Ouch, don’t bump your head as you go in!
7) What out for that flying chair if there is an accident!
6) Seat belt, who needs a stinking seat belt?
5) Oh, I have to bend in half to sit comfortably in here?
4) You want me to go down that steep ramp? Who is catching?
3) No moving around until I reach the next destination?
2) Great scenery – wish I could see it
And the Number One reason it will not work:
1) IT’S NOT SAFE!!

The new vehicles on the market today offer space, style, comfort, and safety. If price is a concern, a used or pre-owned van may be the answer!! Looking for options and special packages on the vehicles? We’ve got em’ – leather, navigation, back up camera’s, etc. Need a vehicle with great gas mileage? How does 28 mpg sound?

Don’t miss out on anything or anywhere you want to go just because you have to consider your chair in the equation. Check out what’s available by contacting one of our mobility consultants today to discuss your specific needs and situation

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Wheelchair Vans and Financing Options

Posted on October 21, 2011

We are often asked if there is financing available for our converted vehicle inventory. The quick answer is YES! We have a great relationship with Braun Credit who works with various lending institutions who are familiar with the costs associated with the Chassis and Conversions. Just like at a traditional automotive dealership, a client can fill out a simple one-page application and let their sales associate do the rest.

As with any time credit is granted, the terms and rates are determined by the lender. Considerations that commonly go into the credit worthiness formula are overall credit history, automotive payment history, revolving credit utilization percentage, payment-to-income ratio and overall debt-to-payment ratio, among others. These lenders typically need a 10% downpayment and keep in mind, a trade-in can be considered towards this downpayment.

Of course, the client may choose to obtain a loan via their local bank or credit union. We welcome that as well and we know some clients may leverage their other existing accounts (signature loans, mortgage loans, etc.) when negotiating a rate. The great thing about Braun Credit is they can petition for a much longer term than what a local bank may be willing to offer. For instance, a typical 10 year term might produce a $550 per month payment whereas a 5 year term payment might be $975 or so. Also, keep in mind that all Braun Credit initiated contracts are Simple Interest. That means, if you choose a longer term for a more affordable monthly payment but come across some extra funds, you can prepay at no penalty.

So if you think that a new, handicap accessible van is too expensive, talk to your sales associate about your financing options. You may find it is more affordable than you think!!

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To Drive or Not To Drive . . That Is The Question

Posted on October 21, 2011

Getting adaptive driving equipment can be a very exciting time, but along with that excitement comes some uncertainty. How do I get hand controls legally? Do I need any type of training? Who do I contact to get that training? These are all very good questions and are all an important part of the process. It is very important that any individual needing adaptive driving controls be evaluated and prescribed by an Occupational Therapist who is certified in Driver Rehabilitation.

There are several advantages for clients who are evaluated by a Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist (CDRS). Not only will a CDRS train the individual on how to properly operate all of the adaptive equipment, but they will also physically take them to the Department of Motor Vehicles to obtain the restriction on his or her license. This process results in a nice easy transition for our clients, while allowing them to obtain all of the necessary documents to be a legal licensed driver of their state.

This restriction will help to protect the individual operating the modified vehicle, any passengers, and anyone else who may be involved. For example, in the unlikely event of an accident, the driver of the modified vehicle has proof that he or she has obtained all of the training necessary to operate their vehicle safely. This restriction could prevent any injured individuals from pressing charges or suing, based on driving a modified vehicle without proper training.

It is very important that all individuals needing adaptive driving equipment be evaluated and prescribed by a CDRS in their area. This process will ensure the safety and legality of our clients while helping to make their overall driving experience easy and exciting.

After the the prescription is obtained, Superior Van & Mobility can outfit your existing vehicle with the necessary driving equipment, or assist you with purchasing just the right vehicle that meets your needs and budget. With over 35 years of experience in the mobility industry, our consultants know what it’s like for that first time driver and all the questions that come with that new found freedom and independence.

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