At a glance
Describe the wheelchair
Provide its type, dimensions and relevant features.
Check access
Consider the route, entrance, lift and stairs.
Coordinate the ride
Clarify the specific transport before confirmation.
Why accurate wheelchair information is important
Wheelchairs differ in construction, size, weight and attachments. Before the ride, provide the wheelchair type, known dimensions, electrical components and any transfer requirements. Suitability cannot be confirmed reliably without this information.
Entry and access route
Planning includes the entire route from the building to the vehicle. Describe the floor, lift, steps, doors, courtyard and a suitable pickup point. If stairs need to be managed, add the stair-chair service to the request. Feasibility must be clarified in advance.
Boarding with the lift
PrimaFahrten uses Mercedes Sprinter vehicles with lifting platforms. The lift takes the wheelchair together with the passenger into the vehicle, so nobody has to transfer. We mainly use linear lifts from AMF-Bruns.
The permissible capacity depends on the installed lift model. Particularly heavy or large electric wheelchairs and long scooters are therefore checked by dimensions and weight before the ride. Weight and dimensions of the wheelchair including accessories help with the request.
Secure wheelchair and passenger
In a designated wheelchair space, securing the wheelchair and restraining the passenger are separate tasks. German requirements include Section 35a StVZO and Section 21a StVO. PrimaFahrten does not make an unverified promise about specific vehicle equipment; the arrangement is checked before the ride.
This is how securing works with us: the wheelchair is secured to the vehicle floor. Depending on the vehicle, this uses a perforated floor (Lochboden) and mechanical or electrical holders. The belt is mandatory. If the wheelchair has its own belt, we use it and ask the passenger to wear it. If it has none, we fit a three-point belt in addition. The equipment is aligned with the requirements of DIN 75078-2.
Describe the wheelchair, attachments, entrance, floor, stairs and lift together before the ride.
Who secures, and how are drivers prepared?
Our drivers are instructed in securing wheelchairs safely. Where required they hold the passenger-transport authorisation and know first aid. Internal training also covers respectful dealing with different mobility and support needs. We do not claim medical qualification and do not provide medical care during the journey.
Stay seated or transfer?
You can stay in your own wheelchair if it is made for occupied transport and can be secured for the specific ride. We can normally transport all wheelchair types. If a transfer out of the wheelchair is needed, it must be discussed in advance, as must carrying the empty wheelchair.
Request checklist
- Wheelchair type and known dimensions
- Attachments, headrest or other relevant features
- Whether a transfer from the wheelchair needs to be discussed
- Access conditions at pickup and destination
- Requested accompanying person, return ride and recurring appointments
- Weight, if the wheelchair or scooter is particularly heavy or large
During the journey
Do not change the agreed positioning and securement arrangement without coordination. Report any change in wheelchair, health or access conditions before the next ride. See our wheelchair transport in Berlin for service details.
Frequently asked questions
Can I stay in my wheelchair?
Yes, if the wheelchair is made for occupied transport and can be secured for the specific ride.
What applies to a heavy electric wheelchair or a long scooter?
We check this before the ride by dimensions and weight, because the capacity depends on the installed lift model. State the details as precisely as possible in the request.
Is the seated passenger additionally secured?
Yes. The belt is mandatory. If the wheelchair has its own belt, we use it and ask the passenger to wear it. If it has none, we fit a three-point belt in addition.
What if my wheelchair is not made for occupied transport?
Then a transfer out of the wheelchair must be discussed in advance. We do not give a blanket confirmation without your details.
By Tobias A. Kreuzig, co-founder of PrimaFahrten GmbH
Published: 27 July 2025 · Last substantive update: 26 October 2026
Sources and further information
German Federal Joint Committee: Patient Transport Directive · KBV: Patient transport · DIN 75078-2
