Crash Tested Wheelchairs for Vehicle Transportation
Crash tested wheelchairs are designed and tested for use as a forward-facing seat in a suitably adapted vehicle when the individual wheelchair model and configuration have been approved for this purpose. They are an important consideration for wheelchair users who need to remain seated in their wheelchair while travelling.
At John Preston, we offer a range of crash tested manual wheelchairs from established mobility manufacturers. Our selection includes options for different mobility, seating and support requirements, helping individuals, families, carers and healthcare professionals find suitable wheelchair solutions.
Browse our crash tested wheelchairs above and check the individual product specifications carefully to confirm transport testing, approved configurations and user requirements.
What Is a Crash Tested Wheelchair?
A crash tested wheelchair is a wheelchair that has undergone impact testing to assess its suitability for occupied transport in a motor vehicle. Wheelchairs intended to be used as a vehicle seat may be tested to recognised standards such as ISO 7176-19, depending on the individual model.
Crash testing does not mean that every configuration, accessory or seating combination is automatically approved for occupied transport. Always refer to the wheelchair manufacturer's current instructions and transport guidance for the exact model and configuration being used.
Wheelchairs Tested to ISO 7176-19
ISO 7176-19 relates to wheelchairs intended for use as seats in motor vehicles. Where a wheelchair has been successfully tested to this standard, the manufacturer will specify the approved configuration and instructions for securing the wheelchair and its occupant.
If occupied wheelchair transport is required, check the individual product documentation to establish whether the wheelchair has been tested to the relevant standard and whether any restrictions apply.
Choosing a Crash Tested Manual Wheelchair
The suitability of a wheelchair involves more than its transport credentials. The chair must also meet the user's everyday mobility, comfort and postural requirements.
Important factors to consider include:
- Seat width and seat depth
- Maximum user weight
- Overall wheelchair dimensions
- Self-propelled or attendant-propelled configuration
- Folding and transportation requirements
- Seating and postural support
- Compatibility with approved wheelchair tie-down systems
- Manufacturer instructions for occupied vehicle transport
For users with complex seating, positioning or clinical requirements, an appropriate wheelchair assessment is recommended.
Wheelchair Tie-Down & Occupant Restraint Systems
When an approved wheelchair is occupied during vehicle transport, it must be secured using an appropriate wheelchair tie-down and occupant restraint system (WTORS) in accordance with the wheelchair, restraint system and vehicle manufacturers' instructions.
The wheelchair's own lap belt or positioning belt should not automatically be assumed to replace a vehicle occupant restraint. Correctly specified and installed occupant restraints are an essential part of safe wheelchair transportation.
Transport arrangements should always be assessed by suitably competent professionals, particularly where specialist seating or wheelchair accessories are involved.
Crash Tested Wheelchairs for Taxis, Minibuses & Accessible Vehicles
Crash tested wheelchairs may be considered where a wheelchair user needs to travel while remaining seated in their wheelchair, including within suitably adapted taxis, minibuses, community transport and wheelchair accessible vehicles.
Suitability depends on the specific wheelchair, vehicle, restraint system and user. Always follow current manufacturer guidance and ensure that the complete transport arrangement is appropriate for the intended application.
Why Buy Crash Tested Wheelchairs from John Preston?
John Preston has extensive experience supplying manual wheelchairs, mobility equipment and specialist rehabilitation products to individuals, healthcare professionals and organisations.
Our team can help you compare wheelchair specifications and identify models that meet your mobility and transportation requirements. For specialist or complex needs, we can also advise when a more detailed assessment may be appropriate.
Contact John Preston for further information about our crash tested wheelchairs or assistance choosing a suitable model.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crash Tested Wheelchairs
What is a crash tested wheelchair?
A crash tested wheelchair is a wheelchair that has undergone impact testing to assess its suitability for use as an occupied seat in a motor vehicle under specified test conditions. Always check the manufacturer's instructions for the individual wheelchair.
What does ISO 7176-19 mean for a wheelchair?
ISO 7176-19 is an international standard covering wheelchairs intended for use as seats in motor vehicles. A manufacturer may state that a particular wheelchair and configuration has been tested to this standard.
Can I sit in my wheelchair while travelling in a vehicle?
Only where the wheelchair, its configuration, the vehicle and the restraint system are suitable for occupied transport. The wheelchair manufacturer's transport instructions should always be followed.
Can any manual wheelchair be used as a vehicle seat?
No. A wheelchair should not be assumed suitable for occupied vehicle transport simply because it is a manual wheelchair. Check whether the specific model and configuration have been tested and approved by the manufacturer for this purpose.
What is a WTORS?
WTORS stands for Wheelchair Tie-down and Occupant Restraint System. It is used to secure the wheelchair and provide appropriate occupant restraint during vehicle transportation.
Does a wheelchair lap belt replace the vehicle seat belt?
Not necessarily. A wheelchair positioning belt is not automatically a substitute for an approved vehicle occupant restraint. Follow the wheelchair, restraint system and vehicle manufacturers' instructions.
Do wheelchair accessories affect crash test approval?
They can. Seating systems, headrests, trays, accessories and other modifications may affect the approved transport configuration. Check the manufacturer's current guidance for the exact wheelchair setup.
How do I choose the right crash tested wheelchair?
Consider both the user's everyday wheelchair requirements and occupied transport needs. Check dimensions, user weight, seating, propulsion method, manufacturer crash-test information and compatibility with the intended vehicle restraint system. A professional assessment is advisable where requirements are complex.