What conversion style measures up to your needs?

You’ve done your research and know that you need a new side entry wheelchair van, but still don’t know what ramp style works best for you between an in-floor ramp and a bifold ramp. Which do you choose? We at the BLVD have put together a list of some features and drawbacks of each style to help you decide what will fit best for your needs.

In-floor Ramps

• Tend to be the widest ramps available for a power side entry minivan
• Have the ability to open the passenger side sliding door to allow ambulatory passengers to enter and exit onto the curb
• Can be operated manually
• If the in-floor ramp malfunctions or the vehicle loses power and independent wheelchair user will need assistance to get the ramp deployed
• In-floor ramps require a more individual maintenance in between maintenance checks with a local mobility dealer, more debris can get into the door track

Bifold Ramps

• Have a larger edge to help prevent a wheelchair or scooter from driving off the ramp
• It is unlikely that an independent wheelchair user will get stuck in the vehicle if the ramp malfunctions or the vehicle loses power, the ramp can be pushed out from the inside and gravity will help deploy it
• Debris tends to fall off the ramp onto the ground outside the vehicle and out of the door track
• Can be operated manually
• There are more manufacturers that sell this conversion, leading to more diversity in choice
• The bifold ramp must be deployed in order to use the passenger sliding door

Both ramp deployment options are better for certain circumstances, however the only way to really know what is best for your situation is to experience both. To learn more about handicap accessible side entry ramp vans find a mobility dealer near you.