Ride Safe

Step 1: Start with the right equipment

The Wheelchair

• It is best if you have a wheelchair that has been designed and tested for use as a seat in motor vehicles, often referred to as a WC19 wheelchair or a transit wheelchair. These wheelchairs comply with ANSI/RESNA WC19, a voluntary standard developed by safety and rehabilitation experts. Wheelchairs that meet the design and performance requirements of this standard will be labeled to show that they comply with WC19.
• Most importantly, a WC19 wheelchair has four, crash-tested securement points where tiedown straps and hooks can be easily attached. These points are clearly marked with a hook symbol.
• If a WC19 wheelchair is not available, the next best choice is a wheelchair with an accessible metal frame where tiedown straps and hooks can be attached at frame junctions.

The Wheelchair Tiedown and Occupant Restraint System (WTORS)

• It is important to use a complete WTORS to secure the wheelchair and provide the wheelchair occupant with a properly designed and tested seatbelt system.
• Always use a WTORS that has been crash tested and labeled as complying with SAE J2249, a voluntary standard developed by safety and rehabilitation experts. The most common type of wheelchair tiedown uses four straps to secure the wheelchair to the vehicle. Although it requires someone other than the wheelchair rider to secure and release the wheelchair, this tiedown can secure a wide range of WC19 and non-WC19 wheelchairs.
• To protect the rider during a crash or sudden braking, and to minimize the likelihood of injury caused by contact with the vehicle, a seatbelt system with both pelvic and upper torso belts must be used.