Cars are indispensable these days. We rely on them to get to work, run errands or enjoy a change of scenery.
The safest way to travel in any vehicle is by using the seat and seatbelt fitted by the manufacturer. Not everyone can do that, though, usually due to the degree of disability or the need for postural support.
So, how do you travel safely if you or someone you love needs to use a wheelchair in the car?
Table of Contents
ToggleTalk to your Occupational Therapist
Begin with personalised advice from your occupational therapist. They can assess your particular needs, including whether or not you need to use a wheelchair in your vehicle.
This risk assessment will include consideration of:
- How you will transfer in and out of the vehicle.
- Your postural support needs.
- The type of vehicle you use.
- How to restrain the wheelchair.
- Regulations in your state.
If the risk assessment shows that using your wheelchair in the car is your safest option, then it’s time for some practical considerations.
Meeting safety standards
In the absence of specific legal requirements for wheelchair use in vehicles, we recommend you use a wheelchair that complies with Australian Standard AS/NZS 3696.19, Wheeled mobility devices for use as seats in motor vehicles.
This is useful because all wheelchairs that meet this standard have been crash-tested to withstand forces of 48 km/h at 20 g in an accident. If you’re unsure, check with the manufacturer.
Some wheelchairs don’t meet those minimum standards for safe vehicle transport. They include wheelchairs with:
- Low backs.
- Single pole seats.
- A base or frame that’s insufficient to attach tie-downs.
- No headrest.
Can I use an electric scooter in the car?
No. While some electric scooters have been crash-tested and come with tie-down points, sitting on an electric scooter in your car is not legal.
Modifying your vehicle
Many vehicles can be modified to enable the safe transport of wheelchair users. Modifications we do get into are:
- Ramps
- Hoist
- Boot cranes
- Wheelchair storage.
Restraining the wheelchair
Your wheelchair needs to be securely attached to the floor of your vehicle, facing the direction of travel. This is most commonly done using a wheelchair tie-down or docking system.
Manufacturers will indicate how (and where) the wheelchair is to be tied down during transport to comply with Australian Standards. Your wheelchair must have tie down points to be secured safely while in transit. Securing the wheelchair with removable parts like wheels, frames, footplates, or armrests is unsafe.
Heavy-duty restraints are required for wheelchairs over 120 kg.
Using the lap-sash belt
Once your wheelchair is restrained, you need to ensure that you stay in it, even during an emergency stop.
That means wearing a lap-sash seatbelt – this is required by law.
Of course, you may also use a pelvic belt or harness for support but this is not required for travel, whereas a lap-sash belt is.
Removing extras
Any extras on your wheelchair – like removable trays – should be taken off and securely stored during transport.
Regular maintenance
Both your car and your wheelchair should receive regular maintenance checks to ensure they remain safe to use.
How can Enabled Designs help?
Enabled Designs is here to help you maximise your independence through assistive technology. That includes enabling you to get out and about in your wheelchair and car.
With a highly experienced team and extensive supplier networks, we’re ideally placed to conduct risk assessments and help you find the right wheelchair for your travel needs.
Please contact us today.
Disclaimer
All information is general and not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Enabled Designs can consult with you regarding your individual health needs.
References
- NSW Government, Healthshare EnableNSW, Travelling in a wheelchair in a vehicle, https://www.enable.health.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0009/334854/Fact_Sheet_Travelling_in_a_wheelchair_in_a_vehicle.pdf, [8 March 2024]