As the global vehicle market continues to experience severe shortages due to COVID-19 and a lack of vital semiconductor chips, many people are starting to consider the benefits of an approved used Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV). You can enjoy many of the same benefits when you buy nearly new or second-hand instead of brand new, including regular servicing, a comprehensive warranty, great support plus you could be on the road in your WAV in as little as two weeks.
In this new article for MotaClarity, Sirus Automotive customer Mr Phillip Morris tells us why he opted for an approved used ‘Drive From’ Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle from the Midlands-based Upfront WAV specialist.
“Before I came across Sirus I had a WAV where I had to sit in the back. My wife drove and had to operate the rear ramp manually so I could get in and out. Travelling in the back in my wheelchair was a shock to the system as I was so used to driving nice cars in the past having worked in the motor trade for 46 years. My illness caused a partial loss of hearing, so it was really difficult for me to communicate with anyone in the front and I couldn’t have a conversation with my wife which was very frustrating.
I contracted a serious case of tuberculosis in 2015. The infection caused a spinal stroke and septicaemia, and I became seriously ill. The impact left me unable to walk or speak, so it took me several years to regain the strength in my upper body. Once I regained movement, I decided it was time to get back behind the wheel. I felt it was important that I took advice from a professional, so I went to the Driving Mobility assessment centre in Willenhall. I was very happy to have guidance and reassurance from their specialist driving instructors, and I had ten lessons to rebuild my confidence. They also gave me advice on what driving adaptations I would need, which included push/pull hand controls.
I did try a standard car with adaptations (push/pull hand controls) and a lightweight wheelchair, but I couldn’t physically lift the wheelchair into the car. I had to lift it across my body and my shoulders were too weak with my arthritis. Now I have an electric wheelchair so driving from my wheelchair is ideal.
I had seen a 2017 Volkswagen Caddy Drive wheelchair driver WAV on the Sirus website. The Sirus Mobility Specialist brought the vehicle out to my home so I could have a test drive. I just drove up the rear ramp in my powered wheelchair, manoeuvred to the driver's position, and off I went! It really was everything I wanted and more.
After the demonstration, my Sirus vehicle was delivered (free of charge) to me in just one week. I couldn’t wait to get back to work and I needed a vehicle to get to and from work independently. Once I had my vehicle, I was able to drive myself there and back without having to ask for help. I can now go out unaided which makes me feel so much better. The Sirus VW Drive has changed my life already, the freedom and independence I feel is unbelievable.
I did think about using the Motability Scheme but as I could afford to buy a used vehicle, I decided to purchase one privately. I paid £22,500 for my Sirus Approved used vehicle and I now own it outright. From enquiring to my vehicle being delivered took just a couple of weeks, so I was able to go back to work straight away. I also received a 2 year RAC warranty, 1 year RAC Roadside Assist and a new MOT test. Sirus also carried out an 82 point RAC Approved preparation check and a Vehicle History Check. If anyone wants to get back on the road quickly like I did, a used vehicle with the back up from a company like Sirus is ideal”.
Choosing the right vehicle can totally transform the life of a wheelchair or scooter user. Try the MotaClarity WAV search to find a second-hand approved used wheelchair accessible car, MPV or minibus from accredited suppliers and mobility conversion specialists across the UK.
Wheelchair Passenger - Rear Wheelchair Passenger - Upfront Wheelchair Driver Wheelchair - Other
