How Do Wheelchair Securing Straps Work?

Every wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) uses two separate systems, and both are needed on every journey:

1. Four securing straps hold the wheelchair to the vehicle floor: two at the front, two at the back.
2. A three-point seatbelt (lap and diagonal) holds the passenger in the chair. It’s like a normal seatbelt, just longer.

The straps are bolted through to the vehicle’s structure, adjustable to fit different chairs, and checked as part of the MOT.

Types of strap

Type	How it works
Manual	Pull each strap out to length, attach it, then tighten with a ratchet or let it self-lock
Electric front straps	Flick a switch to release the front straps, attach them at the ramp, switch off, then push the chair in; they lock as it moves forward

Fastenings vary too: seatbelt-style buckles, heavy-duty hooks or carabiners. They all do the same job.

How to secure a wheelchair, step by step

1. Position the chair facing forward, centred in the space.
2. Attach the front straps to solid points on the chair’s frame.
3. Push or winch the chair in to its travelling position.
4. Attach the rear straps to the frame and tighten until the chair doesn’t move.
5. Apply the wheelchair’s brakes. If it’s a powerchair, switch it off.
6. Fit the passenger’s seatbelt: lap belt low across the hips, diagonal across the chest and shoulder, against the body, not over the armrests or wheels.
7. Check everything once more before you drive off.

Safety tips

• Fix straps to the frame, most wheelchairs indicate where to attach these straps but must never attach to wheels, footrests, armrests or push handles – these can break away in a crash.
• Check your wheelchair is approved for travel. Many chairs are crash-tested and have marked tie-down points. If you’re unsure, ask the chair’s manufacturer.
• Use the head restraint, if your vehicle has one, set behind the passenger’s head or you can but an universal head rest.
• Never travel with an unsecured chair or passenger, even for a short trip.

Looking after your straps

• Check the webbing regularly for fraying, cuts or stiffness.
• Vacuum or brush out the strap housings and floor tracks. Wheelchairs bring in grit and stones.
• A light spray of lubricant on the metal mechanisms only (not the webbing) keeps them moving and stops rust.
• If a strap is damaged or doesn’t lock, stop using it and get it replaced. Only use certified replacement straps.

We’ll show you how

When you collect or take delivery of a WAV from us, we demonstrate the restraints until you’re confident. If you have questions later, or a strap needs replacing, call 0333 200 8593 and we’ll help.

Related: Wheelchair accessible cars guide · Lowered-floor WAVs