Fiberglass Wheelchair Ramp

Living life from the vantage point of a wheelchair definite has unique challenges and frustrations. Activities most people do without thinking, or take for granted, can be a major event for any wheelchair-bound individual. For example, most people can get dressed within a minute, should the need arise. Conversely, people confined to a wheelchair may take an hour or more, and depend upon a caregiver for the basic functions of life. When the smallest functions can be a lengthy process, a disabled individual does not need the added challenge of being denied access to businesses and homes. Unfortunately, not all buildings are equipped with wheelchair ramps, and ramp construction can be extremely costly. Therefore, portable fiberglass wheelchair ramps offer an economical solution.

Sadly, many able-bodied people wake after a traumatic accident and find themselves unable to walk. Naturally, the individual, family, and friends are devastated. Nevertheless, after a period of mourning, the time comes to get busy and make the most of life. While the paraplegic or quadriplegic individual is busy rehabilitation, the family and friends are charged with the task of make life accessible. Thus, the first chore is the home. Until the house can be permanently renovated, a fiberglass wheelchair rental, or purchase is a portable and economical solution.

Fiberglass is an excellent portable choice because the ramps are lightweight, yet durable, and able to support heavy weight. So, even if the handicapped individual is large, and has the added weight of an electric wheelchair, the ramp will not buckle. Also, fiberglass ramps are made with a two-inch edge to keep the wheelchair from going overboard. Even if only one small wheel strays off the ramp, getting the wheelchair unstuck can be extremely difficult. In addition, fiberglass is an excellent choice for individuals living in wet or icy climates. The rough texture of the ramp provides extra traction.

Good traction is essential for any wheelchair ramp. Stopping a backward slide can result in an unbalanced wheelie and a serious fall. Without proper traction, an independent disabled person can sit at the bottom of the ramp until a helping hand arrives. In cold, wet weather, the wait can be dangerous. In any case, a runaway wheelchair is definitely not a pleasant experience.

Depending on the circumstances, wheelchair ramps made of fiberglass are a portable alternative to a curb cut, a solution to getting up steps, and an affordable solution for businesses attempting to accommodate their handicapped patrons, and an answer to homecoming after a terrible accident. Adjusting to life in a wheelchair is difficult, but accessibility does not have to be a major problem.

Next article: 8 Foot EZ- Access Wheelchair Ramp