Here are some tips and tricks to ensure you have a safe journey while hiring one of our vehicles. Our expert team is always just a phone call away should you need anything else.
1. Check Your Equipment Before You Hit the Road
Ensure that all equipment, including the wheelchair, ramp, and tie-downs, is in good working order. Inspect for any signs of wear and tear before setting off to avoid issues during your trip.
Our drivers carry out checks before we deliver each vehicle but it is always worth a second check to ensure you have what you need.
2. Secure the Wheelchair Properly
One of the most important steps in a WAV journey is to make sure the wheelchair is safely secured. Follow our handy guide here on how to restrain down a wheelchair safely for a journey. https://specialistvehiclerental.co.uk/how-to-use-the-wheelchair-restraints-in-your-wheelchair-accessible-vehicle/
3. Use Seat Belts for All Passengers
Everyone in the vehicle, including the person using the wheelchair, must wear a seatbelt. This ensures maximum safety in case of sudden stops or turns. The above linked guide also shows how to secure the wheelchair user’s seatbelt.
4. Ramp and Lift Safety
When using a ramp or lift, make sure to:
- Check for any obstructions on the ramp before loading.
- Load and unload on a flat, stable surface.
- Go slow! Give yourself time to adjust and be cautious.
We have a guide on how to use your manual wheelchair ramp here too: https://specialistvehiclerental.co.uk/how-to-use-your-wheelchair-ramp/
5. Mind Your Driving Style
Driving a WAV requires extra attention:
Avoid sharp turns or sudden stops to keep passengers comfortable.
Always drive at a controlled speed, especially around corners or uneven roads.
Keep a safe distance from other vehicles to reduce the need for sudden braking.
Due to the larger sizes of wheelchair accessible vehicles, you may find more difficulty manoeuvring them compared to standard cars. It is always advised to take your time and ensure you have enough space, most vehicles are fitted with a handy reversing camera. This is something you can request when booking your vehicle with our helpful team.
6. Regular Vehicle Maintenance
It is important a vehicle is well maintained, this is to ensure there are no faults and the vehicle does not break down during a journey.
Thankfully, all our vehicles are regularly maintained by us- including MOT and servicing.
Our vehicles are inspected every time they leave our premises. If you have an issue with one of our vehicles, please contact our team:
Email: bookings@specialistvehiclerental.co.uk
Phone: 01922 624 967
7. Emergency Procedures
Prepare for the unexpected:
Know how to operate the manual ramp or lift in case of power failure.
Keep a list of emergency contacts and a first-aid kit in the vehicle.
Ensure you know where the nearest accessible rest stops are along your route.
It is always advised to pre-plan your route to ensure the areas you are visiting are wheelchair accessible and allow for adequate disability parking.
Here are some resources which may help:
Transport for London’s (TfL) Journey Planner:
TfL offers an accessibility-friendly journey planner that allows users to filter routes by step-free access, accessible buses, and stations with lifts or ramps.
Website: https://tfl.gov.uk/plan-a-journey/
National Rail Enquiries – Passenger Assistance:
National Rail offers a service to help passengers with disabilities plan their rail journeys. You can book assistance like ramps or help boarding and alighting trains.
Website: https://www.nationalrail.co.uk/help-and-assistance/passenger-assistance-app/
AccessAble:
This is a comprehensive service providing detailed accessibility guides for venues, stations, public transport, and more across the UK. It helps users find accessible routes and services tailored to their needs.
Website: https://www.accessable.co.uk/
Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee (DPTAC):
DPTAC offers advice and support on accessible travel in the UK, ensuring that services are inclusive of people with disabilities.
Website: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/disabled-persons-transport-advisory-committee
Traveline:
Traveline offers public transport journey planning, and you can select accessibility preferences such as step-free access and low-floor buses.
Website: https://www.traveline.info/
8. Weather conditions
Check the weather for the day you will be driving and plan accordingly.
If conditions are raining or wet, there may be more traffic, delays and you will have to drive slower. Your stopping distance in the rain is greatly increased when the road is wet.
Icy or snow conditions are again something you must prepare for. If possible, it may be best to re-plan your journey to a day where conditions aren’t as dangerous. Driving in such slippery conditions can be hazardous, if necessary ensure you drive slow and at a comfortable pace.
9. Prepare for Night Driving
Use high beams appropriately and dim them for oncoming vehicles.
Ensure headlights and tail lights are clean and functioning.
Reduce speed to accommodate lower visibility at night.
