Wheelchair-Accessible Van Breakdown: What to Tell Rick’s

Wheelchair-accessible van broke down? Call Rick’s with the conversion details and passenger access needs before booking.

Start with the van’s year, make and model, then identify the mobility conversion manufacturer and model if you know them. Say whether it has a lowered floor, side-entry or rear-entry ramp, lift, or other modifications. Keep the conversion manual available along with the vehicle owner’s manual.

“It’s a minivan” is not enough to confirm a towing setup. Tell us whether the problem is a flat tire, a no-start, a locked door or a ramp that will not operate. Those may require different help. Do not assume a ramp problem means the vehicle battery needs a jump.

BraunAbility’s towing guidance explains that lowered floors reduce ground clearance and can complicate transport. It identifies carrying the vehicle on a flatbed truck or trailer as its preferred method and recommends asking a BraunAbility dealer about the appropriate method for the vehicle.

That guidance does not establish that every conversion has identical requirements. Check the instructions for your exact conversion and chassis. A towing method used for an unmodified version of the van is not automatic approval for yours.

Rick’s offers compatible light-duty wheel-lift towing, with dollies when appropriate. We do not offer flatbed, medium-duty or heavy-duty towing. If your conversion needs equipment we do not provide, arrange a provider that meets those requirements. Dollies alone do not establish clearance or compatibility.

Tell us whether someone is currently inside, whether the ramp or lift works, and what access is needed. You can describe the practical needs without sharing a medical diagnosis. Do not assume the tow truck can accommodate a wheelchair user or provide an accessible passenger ride.

Confirm a suitable passenger transport option separately, including space for the wheelchair and any companion. Discuss where that vehicle can meet you without blocking the van’s ramp or the tow operator’s working area. If someone is trapped, needs emergency medical help or faces immediate danger, call 911 first.

A failed ramp or lift may need the conversion manufacturer’s support or a mobility-equipment technician. Follow that equipment’s instructions; this article does not provide a manual-release or transfer procedure.