Whether you’re a new Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) driver or an experienced one, knowing how to operate a WAV and secure your passengers safely is essential for a safe journey.

Our “Safety starts with you: Championing Accessibility” program is designed to help you become the best driver possible when transporting passengers in wheelchairs and scooters, ensuring the safest trip every time.

Join us in becoming a champion of accessibility for every trip.

Transporting passengers in a WAV

Check out our driver safety video below to learn how to properly transport wheelchair passengers in a WAV. The video guides you through the entire process—from safely loading a passenger into the WAV, securing them correctly, driving with caution, to unloading them safely at their destination.

Top tips to help you be a great driver

Every passenger should feel safe throughout their CPV journey. Our top tips provide practical steps and best practices to help you navigate your responsibilities effectively, ensuring a secure and comfortable experience for everyone on board. By following the tips below, you contribute to a safer and more enjoyable journey for your passengers.

Learn more about your responsibilities when transporting wheelchair passengers in a WAV.

Stay vigilant 

Keep passenger safety in mind by always ensuring proper buckling and floor restraints, and staying vigilant throughout the trip.

Safely load and unload

Choose easy access locations for loading and unloading, communicate clearly to reassure passengers, and take extra care when moving them up or down the ramp/hoist.

Drive smoothly and cautiously

Drive safely by taking corners gently and slowing down for bumps, knowing that wheelchair passengers feel driving forces more intensely.

Check weight and use equipment correctly

Be aware of your hoist's weight limits and handle scooters and wheelchairs safely.

Communicate throughout the journey

Maintain clear communication with passengers during the journey, explaining each step to ensure they feel safe and informed.

Real stories from the WAV

As a WAV driver, safety starts with you. By fostering a culture of safety, everyone using a wheelchair or scooter can travel securely and arrive home safely.

Explore real stories from the WAV, where drivers and passengers come together to champion accessibility. Discover what makes a journey truly safe and inclusive as they share their experiences and key safety practices.

WAV driver resources

Explore our resources designed to support you in your role as a WAV driver. Safety starts with you, and our checklists will help ensure you’re meeting all safety obligations.  

These tools are here to help you champion accessibility and perform your duties effectively, keeping every journey as safe and comfortable as possible.