Buying a WAV during lockdown
The Coronavirus / Covid-19 pandemic has very much changed the way we live our lives especially in the short to medium term. As we are compiling this article – we are currently in the third national lockdown – but the vaccine is rolling out and so we can see the light at the end of the tunnel.
At WavsGB we’ve had to change the way we do business and how we protect our staff and customers.
During the national lockdowns we cannot open to sell any wheelchair accessible vehicles but we are able to hire wheelchair vehicles to those that need them as it is considered an essential service or you can buy the vehicle online (more on that later) – but what about if you want to buy a wheelchair car… how can you do it safely?
Buying a wheelchair accessible vehicle during a pandemic
As soon as we’re out of the national lockdown, our wheelchair accessible vehicles will be for sale again, but things won’t quite be the same.
We’ve put this guide together so that wherever you buy from you can make sure you do it in a way that minimises risk. Some of the below points won’t necessarily apply to you.
1: Follow the guidlines
During lockdowns the Government issue a series of guidelines, restrictions and rules. It’s important to follow these so you don’t get in trouble or put yourself or others at risk. Even outside of lockdowns there maybe specific local restrictions/tiers it’s important to follow these and we may also be affected by them. Always check our website for the latest information.
2:Use common sense
Once lockdowns are ended, we still have to be very careful. Many of the people buying WAVs are vulnerable. while we have systems in place to minimise risk it’s important that you also take extra care and take any additional precautions to protect yourself and/or the vulnerable person you are buying the vehicle for.
3: Buy a WAV remotely
If you are looking for a wheelchair accessible vehicle for sale, you don’t need to put yourself and others at possible risk by travelling all over the country viewing WAVs.
At WavsGB – all our vehicles are listed on the website with good quality imagery so you can view the car clearly. We include measurements and other information that will allow you to decide if the vehicle is right for you. All our vehicles can be purchased over the phone and delivered to you. This is allowed during lockdowns.
When you call, we’ll make sure the car is right for you, answer your questions and we’ll take a deposit payment over the phone and agree a delivery date.
If you need any extra information we’ll be happy to provide that and if you want any specific photos or even a video tour we can do that too (for more info see below)
4: We’ll bring a WAV to you
A service that we have always offered but is now more used than ever is our Home demonstration service.
Wherever you are in the UK – we’ll bring the WAV of your choice for you to demo. You can try it and test drive it and we’ll demonstrate how it works.
The vehicle touch-points are cleaned when we arrive and our staff where gloves and mask. On arrival we maintain a safe distance and DO NOT travel with you during your test. If you really like the car, we’ll take a payment and leave it with you.
Learn more about our home demonstrations
5: Video tours and photography
If you are thinking of buying remotely, but you are not quite ready to make a decision on which WAV – we can offer a live or prerecorded video tour.
Simply contact us requesting this and tell us which areas are of particular interest and we can do it live (using, Skype, Whatsapp, Facetime etc..) You can ask to see certain things and ask questions or we’ll record a tour and send you the link to view at your leisure.
After lockdown ends – you’ll be able to visit showrooms again. Here are some things to bear in mind to make your visit safer.
6: Make an appointment
If you’re planning to visit us to view a wheelchair accessible vehicle, give us a call or send us an email first.
By calling ahead we can get the vehicle ready, move it to our viewing area and give it an extra clean ready for your visit.
Making an appointment allows us to prepare for your visit, keeps you safer and helps us to manage the amount of visitors we are getting at any one time.
7: Clean vehicles
Every time we move or demonstrate a vehicle it is cleaned.
We also clean our wheelchair vehicles before and after every test drive.
We give regular full cleans and clean the touchpoints after every contact. Touchpoints include door handles, dashboard, steering wheel, key etc.
We are also happy to provide you with anti-bac wipes to wipe any areas yourself.
8: Zero Contact
Our staff will keep a safe distance and wear masks at all times.
There is no need for you to come into the office, we’re happy to meet you outside and we’ll stay at least 2 meters from you.
If it’s raining we can provide umbrellas or move the vehicle into our viewing area where you can view at your own comfort.
9: Decide who needs to visit
While it can be exciting shopping for a new vehicle, in the current climate it’s better if the number of people who accompany you is kept to a minimum. If you are selecting a vehicle for a wheelchair using member of your family or group who may be vulnerable – we would advise that they do not attend. It may be better to bring their wheelchair to test for sizing if possible.
10. Please wear a mask
If possible, please wear a mask when visiting.
This helps to protect you and our staff.
We’re happy to help – just ask
If you have additional concerns or worries, please get in touch.
If you need any specific measures or extra care put into place please do get in touch we are happy to help and make your visit as safe as possible.
Shop for a WAV or get some advice
Click below to browse our vehicles for sale or call us on 01761 471540 for advice on your next wheelchair accessible vehicle
Wheelchair accessible vehicles for sale
