MobilityWorks, Providing Independence to Physically Challenged Individuals

MobilityWorks is an industry leader of wheelchair accessible vans. Offering wheelchair vans, power scooter lifts, handicapped accessible vans and adaptive driving equipment to provide mobility and independence to physically challenged individuals across the country.

Tim Rosso of the Pasadena location said, “It is extremely rewarding to watch a client drive away in their new van as they gain more freedom and independence.”

Vehicles can be modified and adapted in many ways, the most common is a lowered floor mini-van. Don’t let the name fool you, it has the same ground clearance as many other vehicles on the road ways. Once the suspension is lifted up, the floor is lowered and a power kneeling and power ramp are added making it accessible. Having removable front seats that are easily taken out of position, allows the wheelchair occupant to roll into the passenger or drivers position. Two types of ramps are offered on most mini-vans; fold out and in floor. Fold out ramps come in both power as well as manual depending on the client’s needs and desires.

Steve Casaus from the Pasadena location explained how the power kneeling system brings the angle of the ramp between 7 and 8 degrees depending on the make and model. This added benefit allows the wheelchair user to easily roll up into the van.

With each client having different needs and wants a free consultation with a Certified Mobility Consultant is the best way to start the process. This helps to determine if the client will need a driver evaluation by a Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist; who will evaluate and train the person on the specialized driving equipment. From a simple spinner knob to an electronic driving system that is operated with a joystick, MobilityWorks can build a van that fits the client’s needs.

Wheelchair accessible van users are from all walks of life as well as many different situations. From sporting accidents to veterans coming back from a war zone, MobilityWorks provides many different options for each client. A newly returning veteran doesn’t always want to drive a mini-van so there are options like trucks and motorcycles. The Conquest Motorcycle starts life as a BMW 1200 and is modified and made to be wheelchair accessible for a manual wheelchair with a power ramp. Bill Marvin of Phoenix, AZ who is a member of the Conquest Riders Group says, “The Conquest has had a profound influence on my life, I have done Sturgis, Daytona Beach and met countless people who are curious about the Conquest. It has introduced me to a different freedom and a new attitude toward riding motorcycles.”

Handicap accessible trucks are also another alternative to the traditional minivan. Full size GM trucks are converted to allow disabled drivers and passengers to experience the independence of traveling around. Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra are two options in the 1500 or 2500 series models and available in 2 wheel drive or 4 wheel drive.

MobilityWorks can be found in 24 different locations across the U.S. including Pasadena, CA. Every location has wheelchair accessible vans for sale or rent. Mobility Works sells, installs and provides service for quality equipment from Bruno, Harmar, Sure-Grip, Mobility Product and Designs, and B & D Equipment, while also offering vans modified by Vantage Mobility International (VMI), BraunAbility, Amerivan. Similar to automotive dealerships, they offer financing, extended warranties and as well as 24-hour emergency help line and mechanical services.

MobilityWorks has 24 consumer showroom locations in 12 states and a Commercial division serving customers nationwide, they are one of the largest adaptive van providers in the United States. Showroom locations are in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Wisconsin.

To learn more about MobilityWorks, their services, galleries and other information please check their website at http://www.mobilityworks.com/pasadena.php. You can also meet a consultant in person right now by calling 1-626-584-8181 or by visiting the Pasadena showroom at 325 N. Altadena Drive in Pasadena.