Abstract: Some embodiments of the present invention provide a sensor which partially or fully disables operation of a vehicle access and entry device when a barrier of the device is moved sufficiently. In some embodiments, the vehicle access and entry device is an inboard barrier of a wheelchair lift, includes a tie rod coupled to the inboard barrier and to a housing, and triggers a sensor when the tie rod is moved sufficiently with respect to the housing.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a wheelchair retention device for a wheelchair lift is provided at a height no greater than about the center of gravity of a wheelchair on the lift. In some embodiments, the retention device is a seatbelt-like device mounted to lift handrails and elevated above the platform surface. Also, in some embodiments, a damped retention device is provided. The damped retention device can include an extendable non-locking belt that slows a wheelchair or other object contacting the retention device by using friction forces. In some embodiments, the wheelchair can contact the damped retention device prior to contacting the outboard rollstop, and is slowed substantially, thereby preventing the wheelchair from tipping or flipping over upon contacting the rollstop and retaining the wheelchair on the lift.