Just because a person has a handicap or disability does not mean that they need to stop driving. Modern automobile technology provides those with disabilities a host of ways to upgrade and modify their vehicles so that they can still conveniently and safely operate them. The nature of the modifications required will depend largely on the nature of the disability. There are vehicle modifications that can be done to make driving possible for paraplegics, amputees, those with upper body or grip problems, the visually impaired and more.
Check the laws in your region regarding the modification of vehicles to meet special needs. For instance, most areas require that modifications to your vehicle must be done by an approved company. There may also be laws that state that certain safety guidelines must be met during a modification. Certain types of modifications such as spinning knobs for steering may not be legal in some areas.
Have an assessment done. A driver rehabilitation specialist can look at your situation and help you learn what types of modifications need to be done in order to make it possible for you to drive safely. The Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists can help you locate a specialist in your area who can perform your evaluation.
Investigate funding options available to you. These can help defray the cost of the required modifications. There are a number of bodies who may provide funding to help with the cost of vehicle modification. This can include your insurance carrier, a disability non-profit association, charities or State programs, such as the Massachusetts Assistive Technology Loan Program. If you buy a new car, there may be a chance for a rebate for the modifications through the automaker. Finally, veterans often have access to funding sources for these types of alterations through the Department of Veteran Affairs.
Choose the vehicle that you want to have modified. The type of vehicle that will suit you best will be discussed in your evaluation. You may be able to adjust a car you already own depending on the changes that need to be made, but in many cases buying a new or used car of a specific type will be recommended.
Find a company to perform the modifications. You should make sure that you only entrust your vehicle to a reputable vendor with experience in making mobility modifications. Make sure they are a member of the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association, or a similar group.
Learn to drive your vehicle with the modifications that have been made. This may include work with the company who made the modifications, or with your driver rehab specialist.
