New Car

[Ian C]

Our car has been written off and need to find a new one. I was MND diagnosed in May, legs are a bit unsteady but fine for short(ish) walks

I'm assuming the new car will need space for a wheelchair fairly soon. Ive seen talk about WAV vehicles but I hope I'm not there yet and we've only just told the kids so don't want to freak them out just yet (though that's probably inevitable)

Any advice regarding boot and car size? Was thinking kadjar size but no idea really.

All advice greatly received

[MMG]

My advice is avoid expensive mistakes and plan for the future.

I kept my usual car but purchased a WAV as soon as he needed a wheelchair. My husband lost his mobility fairly rapidly so we needed a WAV.

[Bowler]

Something to consider Ian

1. Are you a year or two away from receiving state pension. If you are then at some point you are likely to be eligible for PIP inc motability. The motability element can be used to lease a WAV or indeed any car.

2. If you already receive state pension and are not in receipt of PIP then you will not qualify for the benefit in which case you might want to think about using the right off value you receive to as MMG says future proof now and look into getting a WAV. There are many different models to choose from including those that accommodate wheelchairs where the front passenger seat is or much bigger ones that can take two, three or more passengers plus a wheelchair user.

3. if you decide to go with an SUV on the basis of using a manual wheelchair think about who it is that will be loading the chair and would they physically be able to lift it into the boot.

If at all possible don’t rush the decision and do think of the long term.

[Ian C]

I've submited my PIP about a month ago but got an email to say will be another 8 weeks. Joys.

Im not ready to get a WAV but makes sense not to shell out if we are going to have to change it again in a short space of time.

Thanks for both of your input, appreciate you taking the time

[sara.williams]

From caring for my mum who also is not ready for a wav but has declined in her ability to walk and now uses a mobility scooter but can still transfer with one. The height of the seat is really important, if there is something to grab onto easily like a handle on the inside of the car door. For ease of putting the scooter in the back the lower the better as so not to have to life and largest boot space.

try and put a seat next to a car and transfer and see how easy it is.

[Andrew]

I got a Peugeot Expert recently which is working out well.