For Your Warranty’s Sake: Don’t Neglect Your Vehicle

All new vehicles have a manufacturer’s warranty, but you must maintain routine service to make sure that coverage remains in effect. New and used car warranties keep the cost of ownership down. Besides, you want to keep your accessible vehicle in great working order all the time.

Make sure you know the maintenance requirements and that routine maintenance is performed on time or the manufacturer may not honor the warrant.

The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act of 1975 states that: Having an aftermarket part or modifying your vehicle cannot automatically void your warranty. The act states that a dealer must prove that aftermarket equipment caused the need for repairs before it can deny warranty coverage.

More tips:

  • For converted vehicles, examine the warranty information to make certain conversions have not voided any warranty.
  • Read the warranty’s fine print in the owner’s manual in the section “What is Not Covered.” Can’t find the owner’s manual? Try Edmunds online or use the Edmunds maintenance calculator.
  • If your vehicle was damaged in a fire, flood, earthquake or other natural disaster, the warranty will be voided.
  • Keep up with scheduled service. If you don’t, the dealer is not responsible for repairing damage to the engine. (How long has it been since that last oil change?)
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Safety Facts: How Fast Do Air Bags Deploy?

Blink your eyes. That’s how fast a front air bag inflates – in less than 1/20th of a second. The bag literally erupts from its storage place at up to 200 mph. Because air bags deploy so quickly, serious or sometimes fatal injuries can occur if the occupant is too close to it when it deploys, especially children, seniors and those with disabilities.

Sitting as far back from the steering wheel or dashboard as possible and using seat belts helps prevent occupants from being too close, but those with medical conditions or those who cannot position themselves to operate their cars at least 10 inches back from the center of the driver air bag cover can legally have the bag “depowered” by 20 to 35 percent. (The 10-inch distance is from the center of the steering wheel to your breastbone.)

Air bags are located in three areas:

  • The driver air bag is in the hub of the steering wheel.
  • The front passenger air bag is in the instrument panel (dashboard).
  • Side-impact air bags can be in the seat back, the door or the overhead roof rail.

Find out if you are eligible for air bag deactivation at www.safercar.gov.

Repair shops and dealers are also allowed to install on/off switches that allow air bags to be deactivated with authorization of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

To get an on-off switch installed, get NHTSA’s brochure, “Air bags and On-Off Switches: Information for an Informed Decision” and the form Request for airbag On-Off Switch. You can find these on the NHTSA Web site (www.nhtsa.gov), at AAA clubs, new-car dealers and state motor vehicle departments.

Seat belts are still necessary because air bags work only in front-end collisions occurring at more than 10 mph. Only seat belts can help in side swipes and crashes (although side-mounted airbags are becoming more common), rear-end collisions and secondary impacts.

To find out more about the mobility equipment, wheelchair vans and other solutions offered by United Access, visit http://www.UnitedAccess.com.  

About United Access: United Access has been providing the latest in adapted vehicles, driving systems and services for over 30 years. They are a member of the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association and a nationally accredited Quality Assurance Program (QAP) dealer with nine locations across the Midwest and Mid-South. They are committed to giving back to the communities they serve through volunteer time, event sponsorships and donations.

  

To find out more about the mobility equipment, wheelchair vans and other solutions offered by United Access, visit http://www.UnitedAccess.com.  

About United Access: United Access has been providing the latest in adapted vehicles, driving systems and services for over 30 years. They are a member of the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association and a nationally accredited Quality Assurance Program (QAP) dealer with nine locations across the Midwest and Mid-South. They are committed to giving back to the communities they serve through volunteer time, event sponsorships and donations.

 
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A Cruise Has Never Been Easier

If you have never vacationed on a cruise ship, now is the time. Cruise lines are more accessible than ever. Newer, larger ships commonly feature two dozen or more wheelchair-accessible staterooms with wider door frames, handrails, low sinks, roll-in showers and more.

Choose from thousands of worldwide itineraries, then relax and get pampered for days.

To find a ship that offers amenities you need, visit www.cruising.org.  Depending on your disabilities or preferences, the ship may have Braille signage, accessible gaming (casino), oxygen, staterooms, decks with ramps, or even a “dipper” (hoist) to lower you into the swimming pool.

When you know what you want, look for a travel professional trained or certified to work with those with disabilities. They know the questions to ask to make your vacation easier.

You should know:

  • There are a limited number of accessible staterooms, so book early.
  • Ask to see the ship’s deck plans or view online. Locate accessible staterooms and reserve one that works best for your individual needs; perhaps near elevators or the lounge.
  • Review shore excursions to see if any include wheelchair-accessible tours. If a port only has small boats to ferry you to shore – they can’t handle wheelchairs.
  • Let the cruise line know you are using a wheelchair so staff can make an appropriate table assignment in the dining room, including easy access to restrooms and elevators.

Which ship is best for you?

The Cruise Lines International Association web site offers a “Special Interest Guide for Wheelchair Travelers” that details ship information for passengers with disabilities. It includes such information as the number of wheelchair-accessible staterooms, the number of decks with ramps, whether the traveler must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion and more.

Good advice:

  • Always have your electric scooter or chair serviced before you go.Take a battery charger that is adaptable to a 110 volt electrical outlet.

To find out more about the mobility equipment, wheelchair vans and other solutions offered by United Access, visit http://www.UnitedAccess.com.  

About United Access: United Access has been providing the latest in adapted vehicles, driving systems and services for over 30 years. They are a member of the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association and a nationally accredited Quality Assurance Program (QAP) dealer with nine locations across the Midwest and Mid-South. They are committed to giving back to the communities they serve through volunteer time, event sponsorships and donations.

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Exercise with Team Sports for People with Disabilities

United Access is proud to support wheelchair athletics.  From extreme sports to wheelchair fencing (or rugby or tennis), there’s a team sport for those with disabilities. Most have been modified specifically for those with disabilities, including quadriplegia, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy and many others. Adaptive equipment helps make playing possible.

Excellent programs are offered through your local park district, YMCA, YWCA or community center. Search online for “adapted sports,” “handicapped sports” or “sports + disability.”  Below is a list of some of the sports available.

Basketball: The National Wheelchair Basketball Association (NWBA) consists of men’s, women’s, intercollegiate and youth teams throughout the country. Visit http://www.nwba.org. Visit the Canadian Wheelchair Basketball Association at http://www.cwba.ca.

Adapted versions of basketball include a lowered basket and even a Japanese version with two baskets at different heights.

Boccia is played either indoors or outside and is similar to the Italian game of lawn bowling. Unlike many other sports, boccia is co-ed. Rules allow the use of a ramp to help throw the balls, so that people with very serious disabilities can take an equal part in competitive play. Boccia is now a major international and Paralympic sport.

Quad Rugby, created in Canada in 1979 as murder ball, is a cross between wheelchair basketball and ice hockey. Visit the U.S. Quad Rugby Association at www.quadrugby.com.

Power Soccer is for those who use power wheelchairs. The object is to push the ball over the opponent’s goal line. The game is similar in concept to quad rugby. Visit www.powersoccerusa.net. Power soccer will be demonstrated at all six Abilities Expo 2011 (www.abilitiesexpo.com).

Get out and have fun! Participate with your peers!  This mobility safety update has been brought to you by United Access.   Need some information on how to make your vehicle wheelchair accessible or upgraded with the latest and most convenient features? Contact United Access in Champaign, IL. United Access is a mobility vehicle and accessibility expert!

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Visit United Access to Find Your Best Wheelchair Van Conversion in Champaign, Illinois

Searching for your commericial handicap van is a thrilling experience. A conversion handicap vehicle from United Access in Champaign, Illinois can offer you an unbelievable amount of freedom. One of the best perks of having a handicapped access van is the power to no longer rely on someone else. With the use of mobility driving aids, you can take the wheel and be completely independent.

At the Champaign, Illinois branch of United Access you will be able to scan the different mobility wheelchair vans that are obtainable and find something that matches with your personal preferences and specific needs. With dozens of different van conversions and models available, you should be able to find a mobility vehicle that is just right for you.

The first step you need to take is to contact a  United Access certified mobility consultant at the Champaign, Illinoise location to ensure that shopping is done with as little hassle as possible. Mobility consultants can make sure you are aware of the different kindss of conversion handicapped vans that fit your specific requirements.

Visit the Champaign United Access online inventory of accessible van conversions 24 hours a day.

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Used Mobility Van From United Access in Champaign: The Affordable Choice

Most often, a physically challenged person has to rely on family and friends to drive them to work or to any other location and while their loved ones gladly offer their help. A handicapped accessible vehicle from United Access in Champaign, Illinois offers convenience in transporting a person in a wheelchair and there are types that can driven by a wheelchair user, giving them a sense of freedom.

Handicap vans from United Access allow a disabled person to become self-sufficient when it comes to transportation. The person can go to the mall, run errands for a family member, or even drive someone to work or to school or to any other place.

However, an access vehicle is expensive. Even converting a vehicle to accommodate a wheelchair can be costly. Fortunately, there are used wheelchair vans that make it possible for a disabled person to afford this vehicle.

To start searching for used wheelchair lift vans, you can check with car dealers in your area and surf the Internet.  If it is a challenge to search for used wheelchair vans in your local area, look for dealers that offer delivery services. If you are fortunate to find a used wheelchair van locally, ask a friend or a family member to test-drive the vehicle.

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Getting a Great Wheelchair Accessible Van at United Access in Champaign, Illinois

Purchasing a mobility van from United Access in Champaign, Illinois may, at first, seem like an intimidating process.  Any vehicle, whether new or used from United Access, represents a major financial investment.  And as with any vehicle purchase, the vehicle starts depreciating as soon as you start using it.  That is why it’s vital to put some real thought into what you’re going to get when you’re choosing a van for yourself or your loved one. Here are some tips on getting the best possible wheelchair-accessible van for your needs.

First, you want to research all your options. When many people think of accessible vehicles, they think of full size vans with wheelchair ramps or lifts. Today, though, many of the wheelchair-accessible vehicles are actually minivans. Minivans have some great advantages, such as taking up less space, getting better gas mileage, and being easier for the average driver to maneuver. A full size van is still a good option, though, especially if you need extra space or have a large family.

Besides considering the type of vehicle you want or need, there are also lots of custom details that vary from van to van. Options such as automatic wheelchair tie downs, hand controls or high-tech driving equipment may be added to fit your unique needs. You also want to check out different types of ramp and lift systems so that you find that one that’s best suited to both your wheelchair or scooter and your needs.

After you know what you like, make sure you know how much you can afford. Look at the insurance rates on the wheelchair accessible van or vans that you like. Also, find out what type of automobile loan you can get. This will help narrow your search for the proper vehicle for you. It’s important to take your time while shopping for this major purchase and not to make any snap decisions.  Talking to a Mobility Specialist at United Access can help you through the process of finding the perfect vehicle for you. 

Visit the United Access Champaign online inventory of handicap lift vans 24 hours a day by clicking here.

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