Individuals who use wheelchairs and scooters on a regular basis know that getting in and out of a vehicle can be very difficult. The good news is that recent advancements have made it quicker and easier for both wheelchair and scooter users to enter and exit vehicles. From a wheel chair lift that is capable of lifting heavier wheelchairs to a platform lift that fold up to leave room for others to enter and exit the vehicle, there is a broad array of options available in the market today. The following is a quick guide to the major types of lifts:
- Swing-Arm style lifts: These types of lifts use a mechanical arm that is attached to the vehicle. The arm features a strap that attaches to the scooter or wheelchair. The lift raises and lowers the machine by using an electric motor.
- Platform style lifts: This style features a platform that is set on the ground, which lifts and lowers the wheelchair or scooter. Depending on the model, a platform wheelchair and scooter lift can remain outside while the vehicle is in motion or can be tucked away inside the vehicle.
- Unoccupied lifts versus occupied lifts: This basically means whether or not the person is in the wheelchair or scooter while it is being lifted and lowered. Both swing-arm and platform style lifts are available as occupied or unoccupied lifts.
