Transporting passengers with mobility devices in a WAV requires careful attention to safety. Understanding the capabilities and limitations of different devices protects passengers, drivers, and other road users.
Mobility devices vary in design, stability, and suitability for transport in a WAV. While WAVs are designed to carry mobility aids, not all devices are safe for in-vehicle use.
Passengers and those booking WAV services also play a role in ensuring safe travel. Where possible, the safest option is for the passenger to sit in a conventional vehicle seat and use the seatbelt provided.
If a passenger cannot use a standard seat, they should travel in a wheelchair specifically designed for vehicle use. Using a device that is not suitable for in-vehicle travel can be dangerous.
Wheelchairs
Wheelchairs designed for vehicle travel are built with strong structural frames and dedicated anchorage points. These allow the wheelchair to be securely restrained within a vehicle, enabling the passenger to remain safely seated while the vehicle is in motion. Their construction is designed to withstand the forces from sudden braking or collisions, providing stability and protection.
Note:
- Wheelchairs compliant with Australian Standard AS/NZS 3696.19 are designed and crash-tested to withstand vehicle impact forces, making them safe for a passenger to remain seated during travel.
- Look for a label confirming compliance and review manufacturer guidelines.
Mobility Scooters and High-Care Mobility Aids
Mobility scooters and high-care mobility aids (e.g., ‘Princess’, ‘Duchess’, ‘Tub’ chairs/beds) are not designed for in-vehicle transport with a passenger seated. Their design and construction make them unsafe for travel in a moving vehicle.
Because of these risks, passengers must not remain seated in these devices during travel. Passengers must transfer to a conventional vehicle seat.
Key safety concerns:
- No approved anchorage points for secure restraint.
- Weak frame structures that cannot withstand braking or collision forces.
- Swivel seats, tiller steering, and reclining designs reduce stability and increase tipping risk.
- Lightweight or three-wheeled designs may shift or fall during movement.
- Incorrect posture or seatbelt positioning can lead to sliding or injury in sudden stops.
- They do not meet Australian vehicle transport standards.
Mobility scooters and high-care mobility aids may be carried in a vehicle (when the passenger is sitting in a conventional vehicle seat) – but only if the device can be safely powered off, braked, and secured using approved restraints.
Driver responsibilities:
- Ask passengers to transfer to a conventional vehicle seat and wear a seatbelt.
- Power off devices, apply brakes, and restrain securely if transporting.
- Never allow passengers to remain seated during loading, unloading, or travel.
- Only load and transport the scooter or device if it can be safely lifted, carried, and restrained using approved equipment.
- If unsafe, contact your vehicle owner or BSP for alternative arrangements.
Consequences: Transporting a passenger in these devices creates serious safety risks and may compromise your accreditation and legal liability.
Walking Frames and Other Mobility Aids
Walking frames, rollators, and walking sticks are designed to assist walking to and from the vehicle only.
Passengers must not ride or stand on the hoist. Standing on the hoist is unsafe and can result in slips, falls, or tipping.
- Passengers should enter the vehicle through the conventional door.
- Passengers must sit in a conventional vehicle seat.
- The walking frames must be secured separately to prevent movement during the journey.
Key Takeaways
Wheelchairs: Designed for vehicle travel. Passenger may remain seated if wheelchair is compliant with AS/NZS 3696.19 and properly restrained.
Mobility scooters & high-care aids: Not designed for vehicle travel. Passenger must transfer to a conventional vehicle seat. Devices may only be carried if they can be safely secured; some may not be transportable at all.
Walking frames & other aids: Assist walking only. Passengers must not ride or stand on the hoist and must board through the vehicle door. Passengers must sit in a conventional seat.
Making Safe Decisions
As the driver, you are responsible for deciding whether it is safe for a passenger to travel while seated on their mobility device and whether the device can be safely restrained within the WAV.
If it is not safe:
- Explain your concerns clearly and respectfully to the passenger.
- Ask the passenger to transfer to a conventional vehicle seat and use the seatbelt provided.
- If the situation cannot be made safe, contact your vehicle owner or Booking Service Provider (BSP) to arrange another suitable vehicle or alternative travel option.
If unsure:
- Pause and assess – do not load the passenger.
- Contact your BSP or vehicle owner for advice or clarification.
- Discuss alternative travel arrangements with the passenger in a calm, respectful, and supportive way.
Important: Safety decisions should never be rushed. Taking time to confirm that a mobility device can be properly secured helps ensure a safe, comfortable, and compliant journey for everyone.
| Device Type | Can Passenger remain Seated? | Key Safety Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelchairs | Yes | Must be properly restrained. Check label & manufacturer instructions for Australian Standard AS/NZS 3696.19 compliance. Ensure headrest is positioned behind the head for added safety. Remove trays and other mounted equipment for travel and secure separately. |
| Mobility Scooters | No | Passenger must transfer to conventional vehicle seat. Only transport device if it can be safely lifted and secured. |
| High-Care Aids | No | Passenger must transfer to conventional vehicle seat. Only transport device if it can be safely lifted and secured. |
| Walking Frames / Rollators / Sticks | No | Assist walking only. Passenger must enter through conventional door and sit in conventional vehicle seat. Driver must secure device in vehicle. |