Wheelchair lifts are designed to allow the disabled access to vehicles and elevated places which they would otherwise find off-limits. Wheelchair lifts are manufactured both hydraulic and electrically powered models, the electrically powered wheelchair lifts can be operated by anyone capable of pressing a button.

Some vehicles with wheelchair lifts require that the disabled person’s wheelchair be carried on the vehicle’s rear hitch, while others have lifts which will raise the wheelchair into he vehicle’s trunk or back cargo area.

Do your research the types of vehicular wheelchair lifts before making a purchase as not all lifts work with all cars.

The wheelchair lifts manufacturers can advise you on the proper lift to use with your make and model of vehicle. If you can’t speak directly to a manufacturer, or are going to buy your lift online, an online search will take you to vendor sites with plenty of information to help you make your decision.

Installing Your Vehicular Lift

Vehicular wheelchair lifts which operate manually can usually be installed without professional assistance. You only need to slide the lift into a hitch attached to your vehicle’s back. If you purchase an electric wheelchair lift, however, you will probably need to get help from a mechanic experienced in installing wheelchair lifts. The mechanic will probably have to drill into your vehicle’s trunk, and may have to wire the lift to your battery. Some vendors of wheelchair lifts offer their own installation, so check with yours before calling a mechanic.

Residential Lifts

There are, in additions to vehicular lifts, wheelchair lifts for residential use. Known either as platform or vertical lifts, they can be installed in any lower area of a home which allows movement through the ceiling to the upper floor.

The lift can remain on either level until it is needed; it will include fire prevention features and a secondary power source to keep it operational in case of a power outage.

If the disabled person needs an attendant riding with him or her on the lift, enclosed power lifts are the best. You can even install a power door and seats in home wheelchair lifts; and free-standing wheelchair lifts can be installed in a variety of locations.

When your platform lift arrives it will have been packed flatto ease both its transport and entry into your residence, and the cost of installation is normally included in the purchase price.

Wheelchair lifts give disabled people a convenient way to access those elevated areas which are normally beyond their reach. user-friendly way in which to access elevated areas. Having a wheelchair lift in their vehicle of home will open up many opportunities, but if you are thinking of either installing one or recommending one to a disabled person,first examine the themselves with the standards for lifts established in the Americans with Disabilities Act.