The Complete Guide to Vehicle Adaptations: Find the Perfect Solution for Your Driving Needs
Gaining or maintaining your independence through driving can be life-changing. Whether you're a new driver or looking to adapt your current vehicle, navigating the world of vehicle adaptations can seem overwhelming.
At Mobility Station, we believe that a disability should not be a barrier to mobility. This comprehensive guide is designed to help you understand the wide range of vehicle adaptations available and identify which solutions might be the perfect fit for your specific needs.
Part 1: Driving Controls
These adaptations are designed to modify how you accelerate, brake, and steer, making driving possible for those with limited use of their legs or hands.
1. Hand Controls
Hand controls transfer the function of the accelerator and brake from the pedals to a single hand-operated lever, typically mounted to the steering column. They are ideal for individuals with limited or no use of their legs, such as those with spinal cord injuries, amputation, or muscle weakness.
- Push/Pull Lever: The most common type. You push the lever to brake and pull it towards you to accelerate. This is a very intuitive and popular choice.
- Trigger Throttle: A variant where you push the lever to brake and use your index finger to pull a small trigger on the handle to accelerate.
- Ring Accelerators: These are discreet, modern adaptations. An accelerator ring is fitted to the steering wheel itself. To accelerate, you pull on an "over-ring" or push on an "under-ring" with your hands while keeping both hands on the wheel. This is an excellent solution for those who prefer to steer with two hands.
2. Left-Foot Accelerator
A left-foot accelerator is a simple yet effective adaptation for drivers with a disability in their right leg or foot. It works by transferring the accelerator pedal to the left side of the brake pedal. It can be easily disengaged or flipped back to the original position for drivers without the adaptation.
- Who it's for: Drivers with a prosthetic right leg, paralysis, or severe arthritis in their right ankle or knee.
- Benefits: Allows for a natural driving position and offers a simple, reliable solution.
3. Steering Aids
Steering aids are designed to make controlling the steering wheel easier, especially when one hand is needed to operate hand controls.
- Steering Ball (Spinner Knob): The most common type. A ball-shaped knob is fitted to the steering wheel, allowing you to turn the wheel with just one hand and minimal effort.
- Tetra Grip: Designed for drivers with limited or no hand grip. This adaptation uses a cradle or peg system to securely hold the hand or arm in place, allowing you to steer using wrist and arm movements.
Part 2: Seating & Access
These adaptations focus on making it easier for you to get into and out of your vehicle, reducing strain and increasing safety.
1. Swivel Seats
A swivel seat replaces your original car seat with a purpose-built seat that can rotate outwards to face the door opening. This is invaluable for people who find it difficult to twist their body or lift their legs into the car.
- Manual Swivel Seat: You manually turn the seat to face the door.
- Electric Swivel & Lowering Seat: At the touch of a button, the seat swivels out and lowers to a comfortable height, making transfers from a wheelchair or standing position simple and effortless.
- Who it's for: Anyone with limited mobility, back pain, hip/knee problems, or those who use a wheelchair and need an easy way to transfer into the vehicle.
2. Person Hoists
A person hoist is a powerful lifting solution that assists a person in getting from their wheelchair into the driver's or passenger's seat. It's often fitted to the car's chassis or floor and uses a hoist and sling to safely lift and transfer the user.
- Who it's for: People with limited upper body strength or who cannot manage a transfer on their own.
3. Transfer Plates
A transfer plate is a flat surface that bridges the gap between the car seat and the wheelchair. It creates a smooth and secure path for sliding from the wheelchair into the car seat, reducing the risk of a fall.
- Who it's for: Users with a stable upper body who can manage a self-transfer but need a little assistance with the transfer process.
Part 3: Storing Mobility Aids
These adaptations are essential for anyone who travels with a wheelchair, scooter, or powerchair. They automate the process of loading and unloading, eliminating the need for heavy lifting.
1. Car Boot Hoists
A boot hoist is an electric crane fitted inside the boot of your vehicle. It lifts and lowers your mobility aid into and out of the car. The hoist is operated by a simple wired remote control.
- Types: Hoists come with different lifting capacities, from lighter models for folding wheelchairs (e.g., up to 40kg) to heavy-duty hoists capable of lifting scooters and powerchairs up to 200kg.
- Who it's for: Wheelchair and scooter users who can transfer themselves into the vehicle but cannot lift their mobility aid independently.
2. Rooftop Stowage
A rooftop stowage system is a great alternative for manual wheelchair users, as it frees up boot space for other items. The system automatically lifts the folded wheelchair from the ground and stores it securely in a weatherproof roof box.
- Who it's for: Drivers who can transfer from a wheelchair into their car but require a convenient way to load their chair without occupying the boot.
3. Ramps & Lifts for Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs)
For many people, the best solution is a WAV, which allows them to enter and travel in the vehicle while seated in their wheelchair.
- Ramps: Manual or automatic ramps at the rear or side of the vehicle allow for easy access.
- Tail Lifts: Hydraulic or electric platforms lift a wheelchair and its occupant into the vehicle.
- Who it's for: Wheelchair users who wish to travel as a passenger or drive the vehicle from their wheelchair.
Ready to Find Your Solution?
Choosing the right adaptation is a personal process. Our team of experts at Mobility Station is here to help you every step of the way. We can answer your questions, provide professional advice, and help you find the perfect vehicle adaptation to suit your needs and lifestyle.
Contact us today to arrange a consultation at our workshops.