Q. What is the difference between a vehicle bought from an RV dealership verses one bought directly from the manufacturer's factory?

 

A. The factory built is considered "commercial-grade", with components such as heavier-duty thicker flooring and steps, steel belt line at top of side walls for installing cabinets, and larger storage compartments to hold more powerful generators.

 

Q. Are there ADA regulations that require a mobile clinic to have a wheel chair lift?

 

A. No. This issue is left by ADA for states to regulate and most do not require a lift (or a ramp). It's best to check with your individual State Health & Safety Code.   In general, States require that you make some accommodation for a person with disabilities. Accommodations can mean an action that results in services, programs, or activities being readily accessible to and usable by persons with disabilities. "Accommodations" may include making reasonable modifications in policies, practices, and procedures; furnishing, at no charge, to persons with disabilities, auxiliary aids and services, equipment devices, materials in alternative formats, readers, or certified interpreters for persons with hearing impairments; relocating services or programs to accessible facilities; or providing services at alternative sites.

 

Q. Explain the baseline for a Commercial Driver's License (CDL).

 

A. The weight (not the length) of the vehicle dictates if a CDL is required. In most states it's 26,001+ lbs. Check your State Bus & Truck Regulations, Air Resource Board, or contact the local DMV office.

 

Q. We're in California and have a 2004 diesel Class A medical clinic. What are the emissions regulations?

 

A. Beginning in January 1, 2020 diesel trucks older than 2011 must meet State regulations, or they will be blocked from being registered by the CA State DMV. These vehicles must be replaced with a 2011 or newer vehicle or re-powered with a 2010 or newer engine. You can apply with the DMV for an exemption if the vehicle is driven less than 1,000 miles per year.

 

Q. The tire tread looks good on a used mobile clinic we are thinking of buying.   What is the rule of thumb to determine if the tires need replacement?

 

A. Each tire has an imprinted date code on the exterior tire wall, such as 11/2018 (meaning the week/year). If the vehicle is to be driven long-distance for the initial transport and frequently thereafter, tires should be replaced if more than 5-years old. Caution: they may look good on the outside, but they deteriorate from the inside.