In this post, we’re breaking down some of the most common misconceptions about wheelchair crash testing and what you really need to know.

Would your wheelchair survive a crash? Certified testing ensures the answer is yes.
Pictured: Crash-tested model – Morgan M Lectus.

1. “A crash-tested wheelchair protects you like a car seat.”

The truth: A crash-tested wheelchair is designed to stay intact and properly secured during a crash, reducing the risk of injury. However, it doesn’t offer the same crash protection as a vehicle seat with airbags or a seatbelt built into the frame. You still need a proper occupant restraint system.

2. “You can use any part of a crash-tested wheelchair to tie it down.”

The truth: Only use designated, clearly labeled tie-down points that have been tested as part of the crash test protocol. Never secure the wheelchair by armrests, footplates, or accessory mounts — these aren’t structurally built to withstand crash forces.

For a KARMA wheelchair, search for this label:

Power Wheelchair

Manual Wheelchair

3. “As long as the wheelchair is tied down, it’s safe.”

The truth: Tying down the wheelchair is just one part of the equation. The user also needs a separate, properly positioned seatbelt system — ideally a lap and shoulder belt, anchored to the vehicle, not the wheelchair. This is critical to prevent serious injury during a crash.

Want to learn more? Read our full guide: How to Safely Transport a Wheelchair User in a Vehicle ›

4. “ ‘Crash tested’ means the entire wheelchair is safe for travel.”

The truth: Crash test certification usually applies only to a specific configuration — the exact frame, seating system, headrest, tie-down points, and sometimes even the cushion used during the test. If you swap any major part (like a backrest), additional tests are usually required.

5. “All power wheelchairs are crash tested.”

The truth: Not all power wheelchairs undergo crash testing — especially complex rehab models or those with modular components. If crash test is your priority, ask for official documentation or check the manufacturer’s compliance with ISO or RESNA standards.

Certified Products: EVO1.1 Altus & EVO1.1 Lectus LR Tested and certified by TASS Laboratory to meet safety and performance standards.

Curious about how KARMA ensures safety?
Read more in KARMA’s Innovation: Testing and Reliability of KARMA Wheelchairs ›

What You Can Do

• Look for wheelchairs that are certified to ISO 7176-19 or RESNA WC19 standards.
• Always use approved tie-downs and occupant restraints during transport.
• Ask your dealer or clinician to confirm if your specific wheelchair setup is crash tested.
• Never assume — always check the label or documentation.

Transport safety isn’t about labels—it’s about decisions. Knowing how crash-tested systems work, and using them correctly, gives wheelchair users the confidence to travel with greater safety and peace of mind.

Whether you’re a caregiver, clinician, or user, understanding these basics helps ensure that the wheelchair—and the person using it—arrives safely every time.

FAQ｜Think Your Wheelchair Is Travel-Safe? Think Again.

Q1. If my wheelchair says “crash tested,” am I fully protected?
A: Not entirely. A crash-tested wheelchair helps, but it doesn’t come with airbags or built-in restraints. You still need to wear the vehicle’s lap and shoulder belts for full protection.

Q2. Can I just strap the wheelchair anywhere to keep it in place?
A: No. Only use the marked tie-down points on the wheelchair. Don’t use armrests, footrests, or accessories—they can break during a crash.

Q3. If the wheelchair is tied down, do I still need a seatbelt?
A: Yes! Securing the wheelchair doesn’t secure you. You also need a properly positioned lap and shoulder belt anchored to the vehicle, not the chair.

Q4. If the wheelchair is crash tested, is it always safe no matter how I use it?
A: Not always. Crash tests apply to a specific setup, like the original seat, cushion, headrest, and tie-down points. If any of these parts are swapped or adjusted, the wheelchair may no longer meet the tested safety standard..

Q5. Aren’t all power wheelchairs crash tested these days?
A: Not all of them! Especially complex or customizable models may not be crash tested. If transport safety matters to you, ask for ISO 7176-19 or WC19 certification.

EVO1.1-Altus underwent dynamic crash testing at TASS Laboratory to verify its performance in real-world collision scenarios.

“Want to make sure your wheelchair is truly crash tested? Ask your dealer about ISO 7176-19 certification or contact us for more info.”

Contact Us

Keep Reading

How To Safely Transport a Wheelchair User in a Vehicle

KARMA’s Innovation; Testing and Reliability of KARMA Wheelchairs

5 Steps to Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Wheelchair Legrest

Best Lightweight Power KARMA Wheelchairs for Travelling

What Is a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle

A Fragile Body, but a Strong Mind

Yu-An was born with a rare condition called osteogenesis imperfecta, or brittle bone disease. It causes her bones to be very fragile. She grew up surrounded by braces, casts, and rehab sessions, where she learned to endure pain — and, more importantly, not to complain. Despite her condition, she attended public school like everyone else. She couldn’t join PE lessons and often faced alienation from classmates.

“Sometimes I wished I’d get sick, just so I didn’t have to go to school.”

That was her childhood coping mechanism — until one day, she discovered her passion through art and design class.

A Fragile Body, but a Strong Mind

Yu-An was born with a rare condition called osteogenesis imperfecta, or brittle bone disease. It causes her bones to be very fragile. She grew up surrounded by braces, casts, and rehab sessions, where she learned to endure pain — and, more importantly, not to complain.

Despite her condition, she attended public school like everyone else. She couldn’t join PE lessons and often faced alienation from classmates.

“Sometimes I wished I’d get sick, just so I didn’t have to go to school.”

That was her childhood coping mechanism — until one day, she discovered her passion through art and design class.

Her Wheelchair Isn’t Just Mobility — It’s Freedom

Yu-An got her first power wheelchair during her high school years. With support from her rehab team and family, she was fitted for her first customized KP-12T at KARMA’s headquarters.

Years later, when KP-12T retired, she upgraded to the long-distance power wheelchair Saber GT. With a lithium battery, suspension system, USB ports, hooks, and a custom tray table, it’s a perfect fit for her lifestyle as an outdoor artist. While her friends call her power wheelchair her Ferrari, she prefers to see Saber as her identity.

“It represents the independent part of me. When I take great care of it, it will take great care of me.”

To her, a wheelchair isn’t just a device — it’s an extension of her freedom.

Market Life Is Not Always Sunshine and Smiles

Since 2013, Yu-An has traveled across Taiwan to join artisan markets and pop-up events in department stores.

She has met all kinds of people: shoppers who criticize her designs, kids who bite her artworks, and grumpy men who shout at her. But also… she’s met lots of kind-hearted customers, loyal fans, and even a stranger who once asked:

“Which one’s your favorite? I’ll buy it for you as a gift.”

She laughs:

“When I was younger, I took discrimination too personally — like, ‘Why are people treating me this way?’ But now I know, making a living isn’t easy. I’ve learned to let it go.”

Her humor and grace keep her going, one booth at a time.

“Try to Do What You Love, While You Can.”

Even with her passion for creating, she admits sometimes she wonders what she is doing all this for. But she doesn’t want to stop.

To her, success isn’t about making big money — it’s about having a small, stable corner to call her own.

A space where she can keep crafting, keep chatting with people, and simply keep being herself.

Yu-An’s Message

“I can eat and shower by myself. That means a lot to me.”

Yu-An values her independence deeply. Through her artwork and her presence at markets, she hopes more people can get to know her — and understand her.

When asked what she’d say to others with disabilities, she pauses and smiles:

“Go for what you want to do. Don’t be afraid of regret!
But also, it’s okay to regret — that’s life.”

This is her humor. This is her honesty.

She is Yu-An — a creator, and a spirit that refuses to be boxed in. If you ever run into her at a market, don’t just say hello. Also say: “You’ve got this.”

Featured Product:

Saber GT

We are excited to invite you to visit our booth at RehaCare 2025. This year, we will be presenting several new models. Our exhibits will include:

New EVO Altus, Challenge the minimum seat height:

If you want to know about the New Evo Altus, see you at the exhibition.

Saber Sling, Classic model upgraded:

Karma’s Saber series has provided users with unparalleled outdoor performance for over 30 years. World-renowned for its speed, handling, and reliability, Saber is the ideal power wheelchair for users with good upper body strength and a taste for adventure.

Morgan M Lectus, Premium mid-wheel drive Power Wheelchair:

Combining the complex positioning capabilities of our top-line EVO series power wheelchairs with our high-performance Morgan M mid-wheel drive power base.

Ergo 3, Closer to care needs, more Fit:

At the heart of this innovation lies the patented Ergo Back. Tailored support for the lumbar region ensures the spine’s natural alignment. Discover the future of seating with the Ergo 3, where function and well-being converge in perfect harmony.

Agile Plus, The ideal combination for your needs:

The Agile Plus that offers exceptional strength and style. It supports a wide range of adjustable functions—including rear-wheel axle position, seat depth, backrest height, and a foldable backrest to meet diverse user needs.

Come to our booth to find out more. We look forward to seeing you soon!

35 years ago, the first KARMA aluminum wheelchair was introduced to Spain by a visionary partner, Shortes España, laying the foundation for KARMA’s presence in Europe. Over the next decade, this partnership grew stronger, and in 2015, KARMA Mobility España was established in Gijón.

In the past 10 years, KARMA Mobility España has delivered over 15,000 products and now serves more than 30 countries through its European warehouse. This journey is a wonderful example of good karma in action— building impact through connections. By fostering trust across continents, we continue to grow a legacy of compassion.

This month, to celebrate its 10th anniversary, the entire team embarked on a journey of learning (and fun! )—visiting our Global Headquarters in Taiwan and our factory in Thailand—reaffirming our commitment to care, quality, and connection.

Highlight of our trip!

1. Know Your Range of Knee Motion 

The range of knee motion is probably one of the most critical measurements in the legrest prescription process. Over-stretched legs are not only uncomfortable but can also lead to poor posture over time. 

Reference article: The Fundamental Importance of Knee Range of Motion

Reference article: The Fundamental Importance of Knee Range of Motion

• Within Normal Limits (WNL): If knee flexion falls within normal limits, most legrest options should be suitable.
• Fixed Knee Contracture Over 90 Degrees: When knee angles are fixed at over 90 degrees, proper support usually requires specific alignment between seat depth and a customized legrest.
• Limited Knee Flexion or Fixed Knee Contracture: For users with limited knee flexion or fixed contractures, it’s important to choose a legrest that supports the exact angle needed.

1. 1. Tool-adjustable legrests and manual elevating legrests are the most commonly used options.  
   2. Users with high muscle tone over the knees will benefit from tool-adjustable legrests, as these allow for a stable, fixed position. 
   3. If different limitations exist in each knee, sperated legrests with an independent angle-adjusting function are often the better choice. 

2. Consider Your Transfer Method

If you frequently transfer into and out of your wheelchair from its side, it’s essential to choose a legrest that won’t obstruct your movement. Central legrests provide clearance on both sides of the legs, which can be a game-changer for users with limited hand mobility to have smooth transfers.  

For those who prefer transferring from the front of the wheelchair, swing away legrests can clear the leg space entirely. However, if a user lacks sufficient hand function to swing the legrest away, consider legrests that allow the footplate to lower to the ground. Paired with anterior tilt or low seat height, this setup enables users to step out of the wheelchair directly from the front.  

3. Choose the Right Footplates

Don’t overlook the footplate design when selecting a legrest. Not all footplates are compatible with every legrest, so be sure to consult with your dealer or therapist to ensure the right match.  

The central mount footboard is ideal for compact space or indoor if it can be positioned at an angle close to 90 degrees.

For users without any leg deformities, either a one-piece or two-piece footplate is suitable. However, if there is a leg length discrepancy, two-piece footplates are recommended to accommodate different footplate heights on each side.

Adjustable footplate is ideal for individuals with foot deformities, as it can be tilted forward and backward, and the lateral angle can also be adjusted. 

Special mention should be made of Amputee Legrests, which typically feature shortened support and angle adjustability. Some models also provide lateral support to help keep the residual limb stable. 

4. Think About Leg Elevation Needs

If you have a positioning wheelchair and you have no deformities in your lower extremities, consider whether manual or powered elevating legrests are better suited to your needs and abilities.  

To enhance circulation in the lower limbs, a tilt-in-space wheelchair equipped with elevating legrests can be highly effective. The key principle is to position the legs higher than the head, which promotes better blood flow. 

Pro Tip:  Biomechanical length compensation allows the legrest to adjust in length as the angle changes, reducing strain on the joints. It’s especially important for users who cannot reposition themselves in their wheelchair.

5. Consult Your Therapist for Special Positioning

For individuals with severe deformities in the pelvis, trunk, and lower extremities, a specialized positioning setup is necessary to ensure sitting stability, comfort, and driving efficiency. A therapist’s assessment plays a crucial role in selecting the most suitable legrests to support proper posture. 

Conclusion 

Choosing the right legrest for your wheelchair is essential for maximizing both comfort and functionality. By taking into account factors such as your range of knee motion, transfer methods, footplate design, leg elevation needs, and specific sitting posture, you can make an informed decision tailored to your individual requirements. If you have further questions about selecting legrests, consulting a qualified therapist and your dealer for professional guidance is key to making the right choice. 

Tzuyu Lin, PT, Product Manager

Tzuyu Lin is a physiotherapist and Product Manager at KARMA headquarters. She began her career at the Rehabilitation Engineering Lab at National Taiwan University, focusing on exoskeleton studies, and later gained five years of physiotherapy experience at an orthopedics clinic.

Since joining KARMA in 2021 as a Product Specialist, Tzuyu has focused on custom adaptations and complex rehab technology. Now part of the product management team, she co-developed the KARMA Flexx Adapt wheelchair.

Keep Reading

Which Leg Rest Should You Choose?

How Do the Footplates Contribute to a Comfortable Sitting Position?

Busting Myths about the Leg Rests on a Wheelchair

The 2024 REHACare successfully concluded on September 28th. We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our friends who attended the event. We sincerely appreciate your feedback, whether it’s regarding our products or services. It serves as a driving force for our continuous growth and improvement. We look forward to future collaborations as we strive to provide better mobility solutions.

2024 Rehacare Highlights!

EVO Altus – MobilityCompact Enough for Any Elevator 

Did you know the Evo Altus is the only high-end standing power wheelchair designed to fit effortlessly into compact residential elevators? With its intelligent lifting design, the Evo Altus shortens its length during elevation, making it perfect for navigating tight spaces with ease and style.

Know more

Morgan M Lectus – Premium mid-wheel drive
power wheelchair

Experience the pinnacle of comfort where advanced suspension seamlessly integrates with cutting-edge biomechanical design. The Morgan M Lectus stands as the premier model in the Morgan M series, delivering unparalleled driving performance alongside a comprehensive array of sophisticated rehabilitation options, thanks to its acclaimed Lectus seat.

Know more

Ergo 3 – The Next Generation of Lightweight Mobility

The latest Ergo member has finally arrived in the market! At the heart of this innovation lies the patented Ergo Back and lightweight technology. Discover the future of premium lightweight wheelchairs with the Ergo 3, where function and comfort converge in perfect harmony.

Know more

Ergo 3

Morgan M Lectus

EVO Altus

Morgan M Versus

Morgan M Sling

Leon R Versus

Leon R Sling

Blazer Sling

Leon F Kameleon

Flexx Adapt

Flexx Junior

Ergo Aqua

Ergo Lite 2

We are excited to invite you to visit our booth at REHACare 2024. This year, we are pleased to present the newest models in the Ergo and Morgan M family. Our exhibit will feature:

Ergo Lite 2 for plus-size users:

The options for this ultra-lightweight wheelchair have been expanded to include increased seat width, seat-to-floor height, and weight capacity. The latest Ergo Lite 2 frame is now crash-tested and ready to serve.

Ergo 3, Next Gen Lightweight Manual Wheelchair:

At the heart of this innovation lies the patented Ergo Back. Tailored support for the lumbar region ensures the spine’s natural alignment. Discover the future of seating with the Ergo 3, where function and well-being converge in perfect harmony.

Morgan M Lectus, Premium Power Wheelchair:

Combining the complex positioning capabilities of our top-line EVO series power wheelchairs with our high-performance Morgan M mid-wheel drive power base.

Come to our booth to find out more. We look forward to seeing you soon!

The 2023 REHACare successfully concluded on September 16th. We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our friends who attended the event. We sincerely appreciate your feedback, whether it’s regarding our products or services. It serves as a driving force for our continuous growth and improvement. We look forward to future collaborations as we strive to provide better mobility solutions.

Ergo 3 － Patent Ergo Back Design

A set of curved and adjustable Ergo Back Inserts provides direct lumbar support and maintains the spine’s natural alignment. It is the perfect solution for someone seeking a comfortable seating experience in a lightweight wheelchair.

Know more

Ergo Anti-tipper

Quick-Release AND Overcome Curb in ONE Single Step!

Know more

2023 Rehacare Highlights!

Ergo 3

Leon R Versus

Leon F Versus

Morgan M Versus

Flexx Adapt

EVO Lectus LR

SOMA 215 TL

SOMA 215

KARMA Medical firmly believes in the concept of “Fit”; that is, to find the perfect mobility aid, one must consider the user’s body shape, medical needs, lifestyle, and budget search for the sweet balance of these four key elements to achieve an improved quality of life.

Flexx Adapt was designed under that philosophy. In the early stage of the research and development of Flexx Adapt, hundreds of therapists were involved in giving their opinions and advice. Through that process, a new standard for pediatric positioning products was created, with the fully adjustable and configurable seating system ensuring a comfortable and supportive fit throughout childhood.

Flexx Adapt
Innovative Pediatric Positioning Solution

✓ Growing Up with Flexx Adapt
Seat expandable with a rigid frame and adjustable seating system.

✓ 2-in-1 Pressure Relief
Combining the Tilt and Recline functions allow the user to achieve a nearly horizontal trunk position to redistribute pressure, facilitate transfers, perform postural adjustments, and undergo daily care (e.g., diaper changes).

✓ Personalized Seating System
The adaptive seating system allows a wide range of accessory options for the ultimate personalization. The back panel’s slide-slot design and side rail technology facilitate the addition of different headrests, armrests, and supports.

✓Dynamic Backrest to Protect the User
Sudden, uncontrolled movements from increased muscle tone pose risks to both the users and their wheelchairs. KARMA’s Dynamic Backrest diffuses and absorbs these forces, while supporting the user throughout their daily activities. With the flip of a switch, the backrest can be set to static mode, providing a stable support surface.

(Left) Therapist of KARMA, (Right) Chairman of National Federation of Associations of Physical Therapists of Taiwan R.O.C.

KARMA Medical was founded in 1987 under its namesake philosophy, taking action to spread positive energy and enrich the lives of the physically challenged community. Over the last three decades, all 900+ members of the KARMA family, across 13 global facilities, have worked tirelessly to perfect the “KARMA FIT”: a set of guiding principles by which we design and manufacture every KARMA wheelchair, mobility scooter, and walker. Our global cooperation with users, healthcare professionals, and government officials further drives our technological innovation to the industry forefront, empowering millions of people worldwide to live their lives to the fullest.

More about Flexx Adapt:

Flexx Adapt