What is the minimum turning space required for a 90-degree turn?

What is the minimum turning space required for a 90-degree turn?

• A. 36 inches
• B. 48 inches
• C. 24 inches
• D. 60 inches

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is how much space a wheelchair needs to change direction, specifically a 90-degree turn. To pivot smoothly, you don’t need a full circular turning area; you just need enough room to rotate the chair toward the new direction within a square footprint. A typical wheelchair is about 24 inches wide, and with a bit of clearance on each side, a 36-inch by 36-inch turning space lets the wheels trace a small arc as you rotate 90 degrees. Larger spaces would make the turn easier, but the minimum required to accomplish the turn is 36 inches.

The idea being tested is how much space a wheelchair needs to change direction, specifically a 90-degree turn. To pivot smoothly, you don’t need a full circular turning area; you just need enough room to rotate the chair toward the new direction within a square footprint. A typical wheelchair is about 24 inches wide, and with a bit of clearance on each side, a 36-inch by 36-inch turning space lets the wheels trace a small arc as you rotate 90 degrees. Larger spaces would make the turn easier, but the minimum required to accomplish the turn is 36 inches.