Buying a new or used car can be a stressful experience. Decisions have to be made about the model you want, colour, engine size and avoiding the pressures of overzealous car salespeople while sticking to a budget. This becomes even harder when you’re searching for a vehicle suitable for disabled people as well.
Deciding on a car might be a difficult decision, but when you have a reliable automobile dealer, your choice-making just might become a tad bit easier. A manufactured authorised dealer, who often take assistance from software solutions (such as Xtime and similar others) to streamline their workflow, maintain inventory and manage effectively their customer relationships could prove to be a boon in disguise – especially if you have multiple automobile choices in mind.
Although, before heading out to a car dealership or searching online for your next vehicle, there are a few things you should consider when you have disabled children or family members. Being well prepared and taking these considerations seriously will ensure you get the best possible deal and car.
Vehicle Size
The vehicle size required will depend on who is using the car. Wheelchair users will need one which is easily accessible with plenty of room, such as the larger disabled vans available from Allied Mobility. While compact cars may be easier for others to get into. For specialist requirements many cars can be adapted to suit particular requirements, from installing a ramp to providing more headroom.
Financial Assistance
There is plenty of financial assistance available to disabled drivers and those who travel as passengers through various government schemes. You can apply for vehicle tax exemption or reduction if you meet criteria such as receiving the higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA). This can impact on your vehicle choice as there will be less incentive to opt for those which have zero vehicle tax already.
Buy or Lease?
The same as when getting any new car, you will need to decide what the best option is between buying and leasing. Especially when purchasing an adapted vehicle, the costs can soon rocket up, which makes leasing a more appealing choice. The Motability Car Scheme is one option that can help those in financial difficulty lease an appropriate vehicle too. However, you will not ever own the car and will still have to pay for any further adaptions.
Style
Just because you’re seeking a disability friendly car it doesn’t mean you’re limited to ugly, oversized vehicles. There are plenty of modern models that have spacious cabins, wide doors and other features that cater well for disabled people. Whether you really want a flashy SUV or are looking for a stylish hatchback, have your heart set on an electric or hybrid model, many of the standard stock are more than up to the job anyway.
