Handicap Lift for Car Installation: What to Expect and How to Prepare

News 12/09/2024

Alright, let’s talk about them handicap lifts for cars, you know, the things that help folks get in and out when their legs ain’t workin’ so good. I seen a few of ’em around, and they seem mighty handy.

First off, you gotta figure out what kind of lift you need. It’s like pickin’ the right size shoes, gotta fit just right. Some lifts, they go on the back of your car, like a little elevator for your chair. Others, they kinda swing you in from the side. And then there’s them ones that lift the whole dang chair and person right up into the van. Big difference, you see. You gotta think about your car, your chair, and how much space you got.

Now, if you’re thinkin’ about gettin’ one of these things, you gotta make sure your car can handle it. It ain’t like slappin’ a bumper sticker on there, you know? Some cars, they just ain’t built for it. You might need to get your car checked out, make sure it’s strong enough to carry the extra weight and all. And the floor, oh lordy, the floor gotta be solid. Can’t be havin’ no rickety floors, or that lift gonna come right down, and nobody wants that.

Installing one of these things… well, that ain’t somethin’ I’d try myself, no sir. You need someone who knows what they’re doin’. Someone who’s got the tools and the know-how. It’s like building a barn, you wouldn’t let just anyone swing a hammer, would ya? They gotta make sure it’s all bolted down tight and workin’ right. And they gotta hook up the power, ’cause these things need electricity to go up and down, you see.

  • Types of Lifts: Like I said, you got your back lifts, your side lifts, and them ones that go right up inside. Each one’s a little different, and you gotta pick the one that’s best for you.
  • Checking your car: Make sure your car is strong enough and the floor is solid. Don’t want no accidents.
  • Installation: Get a professional to do it. It ain’t a DIY project, unless you wanna risk fallin’ on your behind.

I heard tell of some folks who tried to do it themselves, save a few pennies, you know? But let me tell you, it ain’t worth it. You mess somethin’ up, and you could end up hurtin’ yourself or your car. And then you gotta pay even more to get it fixed right. So, just bite the bullet and hire a professional. It’ll save you a whole lotta headaches in the long run.

And don’t forget about the power. These lifts need juice, like a lamp needs oil. You gotta make sure you got the right kind of power outlet, and it’s gotta be close enough to the lift. Sometimes they need a special kinda plug, and sometimes they need a phone line too, for emergencies. It’s all kinda complicated, but the fella installin’ it, he’ll figure it out. That’s what you pay him for, right?

So, if you’re lookin’ for a handicap lift for your car, do your homework. Figure out what kind you need, make sure your car is ready, and get a professional to install it. It ain’t cheap, but it’s worth it if it means you can get around easier and not be stuck at home all day. And that’s what matters, ain’t it? Bein’ able to go where you wanna go, do what you wanna do, without havin’ to worry about how you’re gonna get there.

I seen folks with these lifts, and it makes a world of difference. They can go to the store, visit their grandkids, go to church, whatever they want. It gives ’em their freedom back, you know? And that’s somethin’ you can’t put a price on. Freedom’s like good health, you don’t appreciate it until it’s gone.

Safety first, that’s what I always say. Make sure that whoever installs the lift shows you how to use it properly, and make sure you understand all the safety features. It’s like learnin’ to drive a car, you gotta know what you’re doin’ before you hit the road. And always, always, always double check everything before you use it. Better safe than sorry, that’s my motto.

And one last thing, don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you ain’t sure about somethin’, ask! It’s your car, your lift, and your safety. The folks sellin’ these things, they should be able to answer all your questions and make sure you feel comfortable usin’ the lift. If they can’t, well, maybe you need to find someone else to do business with.

Tags: handicap lift, car lift, mobility, accessibility, installation, car modification, wheelchair lift, vehicle lift, disabled access, safety