Adaptive Equipment May Just Keep You Driving!

There are many diseases and illnesses that strike and cause individuals to have to adapt to new ways of doing familiar tasks. Same can be true for people who have suffered a spinal cord injury, amputation or accident; where performance behind the wheel may not be possible because of physical impairments. The good news is that there is a world of adaptive equipment designed specifically to compensate for particular impairments, and this can be a blessing in disguise.

It’s a good idea to know what adaptive equipment is out there, but the more important thing initially is for an individual facing a new set of disabilities to have a driving evaluation. This can be done with a Driver’s Rehabilitation Specialist.

These experts are able to evaluate each individual’s ability to drive, and perform an assessment based upon the person’s condition. An example of this might be an assessment for a person with Spina Bifida.

The driver’s evaluation would likely include: a vision, perception, behind-the-wheel and functional ability test. A driver’s rehab specialist would also suggest the necessary adaptive equipment and vehicle modifications necessary to get the person driving again.

Types of Adaptive Equipment

Adaptive equipment can be used in vans, trucks cars, though some may be better suited to one type of vehicle over another. Some devices are designed to help the driver compensate for loss of strength or range of motion.

An example of might include: "Reduced effort steering systems" - designed to compensate for reduced strength; "Joystick driving systems" – that allow one hand operation of steering, accelerator and brake; "Servo brake and accelerator control" – that compensates for reduced strength and range of motion.

There are also a number of steering devices like knobs, steering cuffs, amputee rings, palm grips; as well other equipment such as: electric gear selectors, right hand turn signals (that allow right hand operation without crossover), pedal extenders, hand controls, left foot accelerator, steering column extension and many more.

Used Handicap Van
If you need a mobility equipped vehicle, you may be able to save a lot of money buying used.