Driving with a disability shouldn’t mean sacrificing independence. Alongside the numerous accessible vans and vehicles available, a variety of Car Driving Tools can modify a vehicle to meet individual needs. These modifications extend beyond wheelchair accessible vehicles and can be applied to various car models, ensuring everyone can experience the freedom of driving. This article will explore essential car driving tools and the process of getting evaluated to find the right solutions for you.
Understanding the Need for Car Driving Tools
Many individuals can benefit from car driving tools, including those experiencing:
- Age-Related Changes: Decreased strength, flexibility, or reaction time.
- Medical Conditions: Such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, stroke, or traumatic brain injury.
- Cognitive Impairments: Including Alzheimer’s, dementia, or ADHD.
- Physical Limitations: Such as amputation or spina bifida.
- Vision Challenges: Affecting driving ability.
This list is not exhaustive, and individual needs vary. Consulting with a driver evaluation professional is crucial to determine the most suitable driving aids.
Exploring Car Driving Tools Options
A wide range of car driving tools caters to diverse needs:
- Hand Controls: Enable acceleration and braking using hands instead of feet.
- Foot Controls, Pedals, and Pedal Guards: Extend or modify pedals for easier reach and can prevent accidental engagement.
- Extension Controls: Adapt various driving functions like turn signals, parking brakes, and gear shifts.
- Steering Aids: Provide better grip, easier turning, and enhanced control, including steering wheel knobs and specialized grips.
- Secondary Controls: Allow safe and easy operation of windshield wipers, lights, and other secondary vehicle functions.
The optimal combination of driving aids depends on individual requirements.
The Driver Evaluation Process: Ensuring Safety and Independence
Safety is paramount when operating a vehicle. A comprehensive driver evaluation, conducted by a Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist (CDRS), is essential to determine appropriate driving aids and ensure safe driving practices.
Steps in the Evaluation Process:
- Comprehensive Ability Assessment: The CDRS evaluates visual perception, functional abilities, reaction time, and on-road performance. Adaptive equipment may be introduced during the evaluation.
- Driver Remediation or Training: Personalized training sessions may be recommended to refresh skills or learn to use new equipment effectively.
- Collaboration with Mobility Experts: The CDRS collaborates with mobility product dealers to recommend and implement vehicle modifications based on the evaluation results.
Finding a Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist and Financial Assistance
The cost of a driver evaluation varies depending on the facility and service requirements. Some specialists offer on-site assessments and may accept insurance. Financial assistance may be available through state Vocational Rehabilitation or Independent Living Programs.
Reclaiming Driving Independence
Car driving tools empower individuals with disabilities to maintain their driving independence. By understanding the available options and undergoing a professional evaluation, drivers can find the right solutions to navigate the road safely and confidently. Contact a Certified Mobility Consultant to begin the journey towards regaining driving freedom.
