Benefits of Using Wheelchair Tie Downs

Any person who has transported a wheelchair user knows the serious importance of wheelchair tie downs in vans, buses or cars. Mobility disabled passengers are susceptible to sudden movement in a certain vehicle. Thus, they should be secured and protected when being transported to any location. This is particularly the condition during surprise impact or unexpected turns happened to the vehicle. As an outcome, wheelchair tie downs are important to provide comfort, safety and peace of mind to the wheelchair user and also to other people riding in the vehicle.

Mobility chair tie downs that having an occupant restraint combined with wheelchair anchorage give the best protection, according to wheelchair transportation experts. Wheelchair users might be positioned face the back or front of the vehicle. However, they must never be transported in a side facing position. Most manufacturers offer lap belt and shoulder systems for the user combined with a 4 point restraining system for the wheelchair. With these preventive approaches, the floor and wall of the vehicle take up the impact forces and shocks instead of the wheelchair passenger. Wheelchair restraints should have harnesses or heavy straps that are mounted to the floor in rail systems or pod-form with fasteners that latch into the wheelchair base to keep it in place. Wheelchair restraints also provide secure anchorage in the event of an accident.

As you equip your bus, van or car with wheelchair restraints, carefully consider your vehicle, including the type and size of mobility chair you will be using.