Special vehicle modifications for people with disabilities can help keep you on the road. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help properly equip your vehicle. People with disabilities can have specialised vehicle modification installed in their cars. Common modifications include seat belt adjustment, safety bars and straps, ramps, swivel seats, and hand controls.
Types or Car Modification and Adaptive Equipment
There are many options when it comes to adapting and modifying a vehicle.From a chair lift to hand controls, there are modifications for nearly every need .
Accelerators And Pedal Modifications
There are many accelerator and pedal modifications to assist people with disabilities .These modifications can help:
- Increase range of motion for people with limited mobility
- Allow people to use their left foot instead of their right foot to control
pedals - Extend the pedals for those whose legs are unable to each
HAND CONTROLS
Hand controls allow drivers to control the vehicle’s acceleration and braking with just their hands. Controlled by a hand lever , these mechanical systems are attached to foot pedals. Typically, these controls are operated by the left hand. The right and steering shifts, and operates the car’s other system.
THERE ARE MANY TYPES OF HAND CONTROLS
- The Right Angle system is similar to standard push-pull controls.
- Push-Pull systems work by pushing or pulling a lever to brake speed up.
- Push-rock lever are designed for drivers with little to no use of their
fingers.
Seat and Seat Belt Adjustments
Adaptive seat modifications can be used to assist drivers in and out of a vehicle. Powered transfer seats can swivel, rotate, and lift in many directions. This allows drivers to easily transfer into their seats. Some seat adaptations will even extend out of the vehicle and allow a driver to easily get into the seat. Then, they retract the seat back into the vehicle and the driver is ready to go. There are options for people with limited ability to transfer out of a wheelchair. Wheelchair restraints and docking systems can secure the wheelchair to the floor of the vehicle. Once secured, it is locked in place like a standard car seat.Seat belt adjustments are also popular. They include torso restraints and lap belts for extra safety.
Steering Wheel Adjustments and Knobs
There are many steering adjustments that make it easier and safer for a person with disabilities to drive.
Steering knobs
These range in size, shape, and design to suit any need. Common styles include spinner knobs that easily fit in the hand and allow for a gentle grip to steer the wheel. Modified knob styles include pins, handles, and palm grips.
Lightened power steering
This makes the steering wheel easier to turn and helps to reduce pain and fatigue when steering. These systems work well in tandem with other devices, such as steering knobs or handles.
In addition to these advancements, there are also complete steering system redesigns tailored for enhanced mobility. These innovations extend to all terrain wheelchairs, offering options such as foot-operated steering wheels, joysticks, and customizable acceleration/brake controls. While these systems can be tailored to suit the comfort and specific abilities of drivers, they typically represent the more costly alternatives.
Average Costs of Adaptive Devices and Vehicle Modifications
Adapted vehicles allow people with disabilities to drive with improved safety and comfort, but some of these systems can be pricey. In fact, it can cost upwards of $80,000 for a new, adapted vehicle. There are assistance programs that can help reduce these costs, but it is beneficial to look at the various options for each system. A driver will have to determine which modifications work best for their driving situation.
It is also important to keep in mind the continued costs associated with vehicle modifications. The added weight to the car will increase the wear and tear on the tires. Routine car maintenance will help ensure the vehicle is in top shape and that the modifications are functioning as intended.
Disclaimer
This data is an average of available products from a variety of manufacturers and is meant to give an idea of the general landscape. Every person, vehicle, and specific accessibility need will be unique. As such, expect the cost of equipment and installation to vary based on the manufacturer, item need, or even the type of vehicle involved, including factors such as air cushion integration for added comfort and support.
Manufacturer Discounts and Rebates for Adaptive Equipment
Fortunately, there are plenty of manufacturer discounts and rebates for adaptive equipment. Many vehicle manufacturers offer up to $1,000 reimbursement for the installation of adaptive equipment. Meanwhile, different equipment manufacturers can provide similar rebates on the equipment itself.
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