Wheels within wheels - a guide to using a wheelchair on public transport (view report contents)
Key to wheelchair details
Measurements are given to the nearest 5 millimetres. Information has been provided by manufacturers. Try out any wheelchair you are considering - specifications can change.
Width
Where a range is given, the width of the chair can be adjusted.
Length
The minimum length of the wheelchair with the backrest upright and leg rests at an angle of 90º. It includes handles or any other fittings that affect length.
Height
The height of the chair to the top of the backrest.
Height including headrest
The height of the chair with the headrest in place.
Turning space
This is the minimum space manufacturers say is needed to turn the chair to face the other way without reversing, with the backrest upright and leg rests at 90º (or the closest position the chair can get to it). Manufacturers measure their chairs in different ways, so use this information as a rough guide only.
Weight of the wheelchair
The weight of the wheelchair.
Maximum weight carried
The heaviest weight the wheelchair can carry.
Possible problems WITH USE ON PUBLIC TRANSPORT
As a rough guide we have compared each chair's measurements with the space available on public transport vehichles. This shows which chairs might be a tight fit.
Handles
Manufacturer says handles are too narrow for chair to fit against backrest on buses or trains.
Pole
Wheelchair may be too wide or a close fit if corridors or fittings such as the vertical pole on buses, coaches or trains allows only the minimum clearance of 740mm.
Length
Wheelchair is longer than the reference wheelchair and so may be a tight fit.
Taxis
Wheelchair may be too wide or too high to get into a taxi with its headrest in place (where manufacturers say the chair has one). Where a particular chair is adjustable we have taken the smallest size. We have assumed that if the chair is the same width as the taxi door you will (just) be able to get in. We have included the headrest where manufacturers say the chair has one. Remember you will probably need to duck to get through the door.
Report Contents
Introduction
The law
Travelling
in a wheelchair
Trains and trams
Buses
Coaches
Taxis
Planning & booking a journey
Concessions
Reporting back & complaining
Information, help and advice
Details of manual wheelchairs
Details of manual wheelchairs - to be pushed by someone else
Details of powered wheelchairs
