While wheelchair users face multiple challenges throughout the day, one of the most daunting is transferring the wheelchair into a car. When buying a wheelchair, consumers may overlook the weight of the wheelchair and its size in relation to their vehicle. Fortunately, manufacturers make chairs with ultralight frames, rounded side frames, and quick release axles to make your job easier. With planning, you can accomplish this task with minimal effort.
Step 1
Measure the width and depth of the seat onto which the wheelchair will be transferred.
Step 2
Cut the protective cover of your choice (e.g., cardboard, carpet remnant, or plastic sheeting) to the dimensions of the car seat. Place the cover onto the car seat. Slide the seat in front of the protected seat as far forward as possible. If possible, fold the back of that seat down to provide additional space for transfer.
Step 3
Measure the door frame of the vehicle. Measure the frame of the wheelchair from the front caster to the back of the rear wheel and from the top of the push handle to the bottom of the rear wheel. Compare the dimensions to ensure that the frame will pass through the door easily.
Step 4
Remove all accessories such as seat cushion, footrests, anti-tip tubes, and armrests. For a rigid non-folding frame chair with quick release axles, remove the wheels. Fold the back assembly down if this feature is included on your frame.
Step 5
Release brakes and lift up on the seat of the wheelchair to fold it side to side. Push lightly on each wheel to check that the frame is as compressed as possible.
Step 6
Grasp the wheelchair by the side frames (e.g., the metal side where the seat upholstery attaches to the wheelchair), lift the frame and point the push handles toward the seat of the vehicle. Slide the frame through the door onto the protective sheeting. Strap the seat belt of the vehicle around the frame to stabilize. You may also set the front casters onto the lower door frame and tip the push handles onto the seat rather than lifting the entire frame. Store accessories removed before transfer in an area of the vehicle that is easily accessible.
Tips and Warnings
- If you complete this process from the seat of the vehicle due to limited mobility, you should push the driver's seat as far back as possible. Lift the frame by the push handles and pull it across the driver's seat onto the passenger's seat. Secure the seat belt to prevent shifting. Before you a buy or rent a wheelchair, ask for a trial that includes transfer of the frame into the vehicle. Always review the owner's manual prior to attempting to fold or transport the wheelchair.
- Never attempt to transfer a power wheelchair using these steps. Use proper body mechanics at all times to avoid injuries. If possible, squat and lift by straightening the knees rather than bending forward at the waist.
Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
- Carpet remnant, plastic sheeting, or piece of cardboard
