Negotiating Curbs Safely with Wheelchairs
Avoiding Curbs Whenever Possible
Follow these guidelines to avoid negotiating curbs:
- Use Dropped Curbs or Ramps: Whenever feasible, use dropped curbs or ramps instead of negotiating curbs.
Going Down a Curb
If you must go down a curb with an occupied wheelchair:
- Backward Descent: It's safer to go down the curb backwards to reduce strength required and ensure a smoother ride.
- Procedure: Ensure the wheelchair user is informed, clear the road, align the wheelchair perpendicular to the curb, and gently roll the rear wheels down while balancing with the tipping lever.
- Transition: Carefully lower the front wheels to the road surface once the rear wheels are balanced.
Going Up a Curb
If you need to push an occupied wheelchair up a curb:
- Forward Ascent: Going up forwards is safer and smoother for the wheelchair occupant.
- Steps: Communicate with the passenger, approach the curb, use the tipping lever to balance on rear wheels, and carefully lift the rear wheels onto the pavement.
