Crash-tested wheelchairs are designed and crash-tested to achieve user safety while travelling in a vehicle. Crash-tested wheelchairs are built to comply with ISO 7176-19 and WC19 safety standards for wheelchair transport in adapted vehicles. Crash-tested wheelchairs are essential for users wishing to remain seated while being transported.
At Welzo, we maintain a reliable range of crash-tested mobility wheelchairs that satisfy the highest standards of comfort, durability, and safest transport, providing assurance for users, caregivers, and transport providers. Welzo has a vast collection of hundreds of different types of wheelchairs.
What is a Crash-Tested Wheelchair?
A crash-tested wheelchair (also referred to as transport-approved) is one that is built to withstand the forces experienced in a vehicle accident when the wheelchair is secured with a 4-point tie-down system. They have modified frames, designated anchor points, as well as head and back supports to reduce the chance of injury should an accident occur.
Crash-tested wheelchairs are appropriate for:
- People who use a wheelchair and travel in a WAV (wheelchair accessible vehicle)
- Patients travelling in non-emergency transport services
- People who require ongoing transport to medical appointments or schools
- Care homes and community transport providers
Typical features of a crash-tested wheelchair include:
- Appropriate ISO 7176-19 compliance identification
- Specialized padded seating for long periods of use.
- A compatible lap and shoulder restraint.
- Weighing as light as possible with a light folding or rigid frame.
- Securement brackets and crash-tested footrests.
Expert Insight: The Impact of Crash Testing
According to transport safety specialist Alan Morris (UK Mobility Standards Board):
"Crash tested wheelchairs are not a matter of luxury, they are a legal and ethical obligation for any wheelchair user travelling in a vehicle when seated. Achieving ISO standards is not only liability reducing, but it could save lives in the event of a road traffic incident."
Even though many non-crash-tested chairs are fine for general use, they cannot legally be used and do not provide safe usage in travel vehicles. Crash-tested mobility wheelchairs are essential for regular transport users. Check out more Welzo mobility aids.
Who Would Benefit From a Crash-Tested Wheelchair?
Crash-tested wheelchairs are a recommended transport option for:
- Full-time wheelchair users
- People with low transfer ability
- Transport providers either public or private
- Special education schools and rehabilitation centres
They become a significant benefit when safe travel in a vehicle becomes a daily requirement, allowing the user the security and comfort of the wheelchair without the need to transfer to seated positions in an everyday seat.
Browse Our Crash-Tested Wheelchair Range
Welzo has a crash-tested wheelchair range which includes a range of self-propelled and attendant-propelled models by the top manufacturers in UK and Europe. Whether you are enjoying a day out and require a folding crash-tested wheelchair, or require a mobility solution that supports loads, we have the secure transport compliance solution for you. If you are looking for even more convenient types of mobility aids, check out our folding mobility scooters.
