While much has been done to protect infants and children as passengers in motor vehicles, little attention has been given to safeguarding those who use wheelchairs as seats in vans, mini-vans, or cars.
Transporting wheelchair-bound residents under the care of nursing homes and assisted living facilities requires special attention to assure their safety and protection.
Using wheelchair lifts
Vans or mini-vans used to transport residents should be equipped with a wheelchair lift.
Secure the resident
- Secure the resident into the wheelchair with a safety belt.
Secure the wheelchair
- Wheel the chair onto the lift and set all brakes. Test the chair to be sure the wheels are secure. Operate the chair lift and move the resident into the van. If the vehicle does not have a chair lift and a ramp is used, two assistants should wheel the resident into the van.
Once inside the vehicle, the wheelchair should be secured at all four corners by straps or cables connected to hooks or latches that are attached the vehicle frame. Test the chair to ensure it will not move during transit. Connect a safety belt over the resident and wheelchair.
A driver and an assistant should always accompany wheelchair-bound residents while in transit. The assistant should check on the resident frequently during transport, leaving the driver to concentrate solely on the safe driving of the vehicle.
Transporting ambulatory residents
Ambulatory residents sometime require assistance getting in and out of vehicles. Follow these recautions to assure safe travel of residents:
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Large vans should be provided with permanent steps fastened to the van frame. Smaller vans may require a portable stepping stool. If a stool is used, it should have four solid legs with safety feet to prevent sliding. Vans should be equipped with handholds at each entry door.
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The resident should be guided to the door and advised to use the steps and handhold while being assisted, as much as necessary by the driver and an assistant, in and out of the vehicle. Once the resident is seated, the seat belt should be securely fastened and adjusted. Doors should be locked, and child safety locks activated if provided.
