If you’re new to using a wheelchair, you’ll know that there are a lot of things to learn and get used to in your daily life. One aspect that can be particularly challenging is living with a wheelchair and a car. In this guide, we’ll look at how to get a wheelchair in a car, how to transfer from wheelchair to car, and other important questions you may be asking.
Different individuals making use of a wheelchair will have different requirements, so there’s no straightforward answer for the best car for carrying a wheelchair. There is also a wide variety of wheelchairs to consider. Larger vehicles like SUVs, people carriers and minivans are good choices as they are large enough to get into and out of comfortably. If you have a qualifying mobility allowance, you can exchange this for a wheelchair-friendly vehicle through the Motability Scheme.
It’s also worth knowing that many cars can be adapted into wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs), which are specially converted to enable a someone with a wheelchair to travel as a passenger or a driver. While not all cars can be converted, this could give you or your loved one more options and could allow you to use your existing car. WAVs are also available through Motability.
Our range of wheelchairs includes a variety of options that are particularly suitable for transporting in a car, including lightweight and folding wheelchairs.
If you’d like more information about the size and weight of any of our wheelchairs, or advice on how to transfer from wheelchair to car, use our Expert Advice Service to talk with our team of Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants.
If you’re looking at how to put a wheelchair in a car, you’ll need to know whether it can be dismantled, or if you’ll have to put it in the car as it is.
Folding wheelchairs are a great option for those who regularly travel by car, as they can be easily folded up and stored in the boot or back seat. If you’ll need to lift the wheelchair to get it in the car, a lightweight model might be a good idea. Some electric wheelchairs break down into several smaller and lighter parts, making it much easier to get into and out of the car.
Many larger electric mobility aids such as power chairs and mobility scooters can’t be disassembled, so the only way to get them in the car is by opting for a smaller wheelchair that fits in the car in one piece, or buying a larger car to accommodate the wheelchair.
If the wheelchair is particularly heavy or can’t be dismantled, you may not be able to lift it into the car. There are a few useful pieces of equipment designed to get a wheelchair in a car without having to lift it yourself.
A wheelchair ramp is a cheap and easy solution that can be attached to the back of the car. The wheelchair is then simply driven up the ramp and into the car. Larger vehicles can have a lift installed that allows the wheelchair user to drive onto an electric platform which can be raised to the vehicle entrance or lowered to pavement level. Wheelchair hoists featuring a small crane arm can be fitted into the boot of the car. They can automatically pick up and rotate to put the wheelchair into the car.
You should always consult with a medical professional or fully trained specialist before attempting any new activity that requires lifting or handling equipment. Below are some general elements in the transferring from a wheelchair to car and vice versa; however, your particular needs may require additional support.
If you’re able to walk short distances, you may be able to get out of your wheelchair by the boot and then walk around the car to get in. You can use the car to steady yourself. Alternatively, park the wheelchair right by the car door to make the distance you need to walk as small as possible.
If you aren’t able to stand up from your chair, here are some tips for transferring yourself from a wheelchair to a car (please be advised these are only suggestions and you must consider any limitations or pain you experience – we cannot be held responsible for any injury or damage sustained):
Some users may need additional equipment to get into and out of the car from a wheelchair, such as a transfer board or another helpful travel aid such as a swivelling car seat.
To transfer yourself from a car to a wheelchair, the steps we suggest are similar, just in reverse (please be advised these are only suggestions and you must consider any limitations or pain you experience – we cannot be held responsible for any injury or damage sustained):
To help your loved one or someone you care for into a wheelchair from a car, here are some tips:
(Please be advised these are only suggestions and you must consider any limitations or pain you experience – we cannot be held responsible for any injury or damage sustained.)
By signing up you consent to us using your email address in accordance with our privacy policy.