2012A guide for older and disabled people

Car controlsricability

The information contained in this guide is correct at the time ofgoing to print (June 2012). It will be reviewed every two years.See our website for any changes since printing.

Ricability is a charity that researches and publishes independentinformation on products and services for older and disabled people.

Unit G03 The Wenlock50-52 Wharf RoadLondon N1 7EUTel: 020 7427 2460Fax: 020 7427 2468Textphone: 020 7427 2469Email: mail@ricability.org.ukwww.ricability.org.uk

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This guide is for drivers who need toadapt the controls in their car. It will giveyou a starting point to think about whattype of adaptation you might need andhelp you explore what is possible.

There's a very wide range ofadaptations available, so almost anyonecan adapt a car to meet their needs.Adaptations range from very simplebolt-on attachments to the replacementof all the driving controls with a systemindividually designed for you. As long asyou have enough controllablemovement in any part of your body, thecontrols can be adapted to takeadvantage of it.

This guide gives a run down on themain types of control you can get andgives information on how you go aboutgetting them. We cannot tell you what isbest for you, since everyone is different,so we point you towards sources ofexpert advice and tells you where youcan get an assessment of your abilities.We also tell you where you may be ableto get help towards the cost ofequipment and list UK equipmentsuppliers and organisations who haveuseful services.

Advice in this booklet comes fromconsultation with disabled people andother experts. Information aboutproducts, including price informationcomes from our market research - use itas a guide only and shop around for thebest price.

The first steps 4The controls 9Primary controls 10

Steering 10Controlling speed 13Changing gear 19Parking brake 20

Secondary controls 21Custom built controls 24Wheelchair accessible vehicles 27Safety 28The law 30Finance 32Suppliers 35Useful organisations 38Mobility centres 38Other organisations 41

Car controlsA guide for older and disabled people

Contents

Note: This guide does not list allthe companies that sell and fitadaptations to vehicles. To find a localcompany to advise you on suitableequipment, and fit it for you, you needto ask the relevant supplier (see page35) or see our Mobility address list (seepage 43), which lists all suppliers andinstallers and is available in print andon our website -www.ricability.org.uk.

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Your abilities

If you have driven before, think about howyour disability has affected you to get anidea of the effect on your ability to driveand which controls you will need to adapt.

If you haven't driven before, just sittingin a car seat and trying the various controlswill give you an idea of what you can doand what you will have to adapt.

In any case, you are likely to needpersonalised advice from an expert tomake sure you get the right solution.Adaptation companies and equipmentsuppliers will advise on their ownequipment but for an independent andprofessional assessment you should go toan accredited Mobility Centre (see pages38-40 for details). They have expertknowledge and are independent – none ofthem has any interest in any particularcompany. They are also likely to havecome across people with similarrequirements to yours.

If you are in any doubt about whetheryou can drive, the Mobility Centre willcarry out an assessment to see if you canand find out what equipment may suityou. If you know you can drive, they willhelp you decide what controls may suityou and allow you to get the feel of thembefore committing yourself. Some of thebigger centres have a range you can try out

either on a test rig or in a real vehicle.Assessments will generally cost from £50.

If you are a Motability customer (seepage 32), Motability may pay for anassessment at a Mobility Centre andmanage the adaptation process undertheir Managed Adaptation Programme.

Adaptation companies use theassessment report to help them find themost suitable products for you. Beprepared for the recommendations tochange – the car you choose may not bethe one you tried when you were assessedand the equipment may be slightlydifferent too. The converter will usuallydiscuss any proposed changes with theMobility Centre that carried out theassessment. Do not hesitate to voice yourown opinions during all these discussions.

TIPSFor the first edition of this guide we carriedout a survey of disabled drivers. They toldus that while they were the experts ontheir own abilities, they appreciated advicefrom those who knew about controls. Theywere impressed with companies whodiscussed options fully and listened closelyto what they had to say. Here are sometips from them:n ‘be honest – get an assessment at the

level when you are at your least able – atthe end of the day when you feel tired’

The first stepsYou need to think about your abilities, your choice of car and the controls youneed to adapt. Whether you are adapting an existing car or buying a car toadapt, take time to gather all the information you can

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n ‘make sure it will be what you need forthe period of time you will have thevehicle, or if your condition worsens’n ‘make sure everyone listens to what you

have to say and what you want, and notwhat they think you should have’n ‘see as many controls as you can’n ‘a chance to try things is important –

Mobility Centre; Mobility Road Show ...then personal needs and experiencetakes over – you know what suits you.’

Most drivers stressed that it was importantto consider the other people who usedtheir car. Although some family memberswithout disabilities learnt to drive withadaptations, most in our survey did not.Make sure any adaptation does not make itdifficult for other drivers to get in and outof the car and does not make drivingdifficult or uncomfortable for them.

Your car

Most simple adaptations can be easilyfitted to any car. If you already have a caryou need to compare the pros and cons ofadapting it with those of buying andconverting a new one. The advantages ofkeeping your old car include:n it’s likely to be cheapern it’s familiarn it may have features you like.

Against this:n newer cars may have useful standard

features or options (see pages 6-7)n you can choose a car which is easier

to adaptn you may get financial help or VAT

exemption (see page 34) on a new car.

You need to check that the car can befitted with the adaptations that you want.Do not buy or lease a car until you havechecked with the adaptation companythat this can be done.

Most cars can be adapted fairly easilyand all can be fitted with the simpler handcontrols for steering, acceleration and

THE FIRST STEPS

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braking described in this guide. However itcan be difficult and more expensive, oreven impossible, to fit some more complexcontrols to some cars. For example, theelectronic circuits in many new cars cancause problems if you try to fit the moresophisticated controls. This will be agrowing problem as technology changes.Similarly some steering and brakingsystems, especially on newer cars, can bemore difficult to adapt. For adaptationslike these you need to talk to a specialistadaptation company (listed in our Addresslist – see page 43).

You can save money and protect thevalue of your car by choosing a car that canbe converted relatively easily and controlsthat can be fitted without major work tothe car’s interior. Discuss all this with theadaptation company before you start.

Standard equipment that may helpLocking and ignition:n remote central

lockingnwindows close

automatically whenthe car is lockedn push-button start.

Primary controls – for accelerating andbraking, changing gear and steering:n automatic (or semi-automatic)

transmissionn adjustable steering wheel position n cruise control to maintain a constant

speed – some cars have adaptive cruisecontrol that adjusts your speed to matchthe car in frontn easy to use parking brake – some cars

have electronic ones.

Secondary controls – for things like thehorn, lights and indicators:n easy to use controls – check you can

reach them and they don't need toomuch forcen automatic wipers and lightsn electric windows and door mirrorsn heated windscreen and door mirrorsn steering wheel controls for audio

equipment – some can be controlled byvoice.

Seating:n seats that can be moved up and down,

back and forward, to help with getting inand out and get you in a comfortabledriving positionn some cars have electrically operated

seats, and some of these have memoryfunctions, so you can always find yourway back to your settingn some people find sports seats give them

greater support and comfortn adjustable lumbar support.

Other features:n satnav to help you navigate

n parking sensors or cameras - some carsnow come with Park Assist, which willsteer you into the space when parallelparkingn heads up displays, that project your

instruments onto the windscreen so youdon't have to look downn automatic dimming rear view mirrors to

reduce dazzle and glare.

Also look for a car which is easy to get inand out of (large and wide door openings,wide opening doors and handholds inplaces which are convenient for you). Ifyou need to carry a lot of luggage orequipment, look for a spacious boot with alow sill for easy loading.

For more on all this see our guideChoosing a car (see page 43). Use the Find acar database on our website to search for acar using door, seat and bootmeasurements and other features.Go to www.ricability.org.uk and follow the links.

Getting the rightequipment

Once you have worked out which controlsyou are going to have to adapt, you needto find the right combination ofadaptations for you. These will be theeasiest and most comfortable to use andallow you to drive safely. This guide givesexamples of what is available to adapteach of the controls. Don't be put off bythe variety of equipment - most peoplewill only need very simple attachments. Ifyou need more than this, there is plenty ofgood advice around to help you make theright decisions.

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THE FIRST STEPS

n Talk to other driversTalk to people you know, or disabilitymotoring organisations (see pages 41-42)should be able to put you in touch withpeople who use similar controls to thoseyou may be interested in.

n Find an adaptation companyIt is important to have controls fitted by aspecialist. They need to be safe andappropriate for you and the car. Specialistsare also more likely to make a neater job ofit than someone who doesn’t know theequipment. In the back of this guide we listthe main UK equipment suppliers, but youdon't necessarily need to go to one ofthese. Some of them do fit equipmentthemselves and they all sell theirequipment to adaptation companies, whomay be more local to you. You’ll find acomplete list of adaptation companies inour Mobility address list (see page 43). Aspecialist supplier or installer will also beable to carry out regular maintenancechecks for you (adaptations are notchecked as part of the MOT).

It may be worth contacting two or threeadaptation companies by phone for ageneral discussion about what you needand what they can do. Try to get a broad

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idea of cost and ask about warranties andservicing. Most have brochures and websites. If you can, go and visit them.

It is probably best and certainly easier toget all the adaptations you need from onecompany. You can be reasonably confidentthat adaptation companies will not try tosell you any equipment which is not rightfor you. Nearly nine out of ten people inour survey described the adaptationcompany they had used as good.

If you have not had an assessment theadaptation company will carry out someroutine tests and discuss possibilities withyou. They do not make medicaljudgements. If they consider that a fulldriving assessment or medical opinion isneeded they should tell you, and adviseyou where to get it.

If you are able to drive, the adaptationcompany is likely to be able to provide,adapt or make controls for you. In theunlikely event that the equipment theysuggest does not meet your needs, contacta Mobility Centre to see if they have comeacross a solution which may suit you.

n Try before you buyThis can be difficult in practice and fewpeople in our survey tried more than onecontrol. Some Mobility Centres have testrigs which allow you to try out a range.Some adaptation companies have a rigand most will have demonstration modelsof the main controls they supply. They mayalso be able to show you equipment beingfitted to vehicles they are working on atthe time of your visit.

Organisations of disabled motorists(see pages 41-42) may be able to put youin touch with local members willing to letyou try out their controls.

Don’t judge by price alone. You may findthat a more expensive control has featureswhich far outweigh the difference in cost.And a better control may make it mucheasier for you to drive with confidence.

n Try after you buyTry out the controls before you take the carhome, in case they need fine tuning. Oneperson in our survey recommended thatyou try and park the car as ‘that shouldmake any problems obvious’.

n If necessary, take the time to learnA feeling of confidence and being incontrol may take time and practice. Don’tbe put off trying – most people end updriving without difficulty or anxiety. Alladaptation companies will show you howthe equipment they fit works.

Some have space off the public highwayso that you can become familiar with itbefore you start driving on the roads.

Unless you are having only very minoradaptations, try to get some practice witha driving instructor who specialises inadapted vehicles – details from a MobilityCentre (see pages 38-40).

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The controlsThe following pages give details of the main types of controls available. We can’t tell you what would be best for youbut we can give you an idea of therange. Use this information as a starting point for discussions with MobilityCentres and adaptation companies

The illustrations in this guide areintended as examples of what can bedone and are not endorsements of anyparticular product. Mobility Centres andadaptation companies will tell you aboutother possibilities and will advise onwhat might suit you.

We give information about all theavailable products and the companiesthat make or import them. Contact them(details on pages 35-36) to arrange ademonstration or to find a local installer.

Prices in this guide were correct inJune 2012. They include fitting but notVAT because you will not have to pay it(see page 34).

The key is to find controls which suityou rather than having to adaptyourself to them. They should be ineasy reach, easy to operate anddesigned so that using thembecomes second nature withpractice. Controls are likely to bemore comfortable if they:n don’t make you pull at the elbow

and rotate your hand at the same time

n let you keep your wrist straightn avoid twisting the wrist in

uncomfortable waysn are large enough to hold and

spread the effort over a largerpart of your hand or whatever youuse for the control

n let you use your thumb (withoutstretching) rather than individualfingers

n leave enough room for your handwhen you are moving the control.

Good design

Primary controls

Primary controls are those you use toaccelerate, brake and steer. They may beseparate or combined so that a singlecontrol works more than one operation. AMobility Centre or adaptation companywill help you decide which to choose.

STEERING If you have trouble handling the steeringwheel, there is a range of solutionsavailable to help.

SpinnersThe simplest adaptation is a steering ball orspinner attached to the steering wheel toallow you to drive one handed. For manypeople this is all they need.

Spinners come with a variety of shapesto suit different types of grip (see thepictures on this page for examples). Mostcost between £10-110. They are oftencombined with keypads to work the lights,indicators etc (see page 22).

Some have a quick release so they can beeasily removed when someone else isdriving the car.

Look for:n comfort. If gripping is painful look for

softer materialsn shapes which do not obstruct your

view of the dashboardn fittings that do not catch on clothes

when turning.

Safety:n do not use a grip which would stop

your hand being pushed away if theairbag inflated.

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Steering ball(‘mushroom’spinner) –you need to be able to grip

Spinner to beused withhand vertical

Alfred Bekker

Spinner to beused withhandhorizontal

Alfred Bekker

Three pinspinner –supports thewrist

Alfred Bekker

The glove hasa sleeve thatfits over a pegon thesteeringwheel

Keypad forlights,indicators etc(see page 22)

Autoadapt

Joysticksn Joysticks need only a very small

amount of movement – the range andthe strength needed can be adjusted.

Foot steerersn Foot steerers are turntables or treadles.

You may need to have the powersteering lightened

Other ways of steeringThere are other ways of steering. Oftenthese are custom built to suit your needsand abilities, so it is difficult to giveaccurate prices. As you might expect, themore complex they are, the moreexpensive. Expect to pay at least £4,000(considerably more for complex systems).

Look for:n steering controls that you can use

without tiring, either because of theforce you need to operate them orbecause you need to maintain anuncomfortable posturen controls that allow you to use your full

range of movement; this will give youmore control.

Safety:n Make sure you can control the

steering system properly on theroad, when you may need to reactquickly to hazards.

n As with all specialist controlsystems, ensure you have a properassessment and training before youuse one of these.

n Modifying the steering wheel canaffect the performance of airbags(see page 29).

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THE CONTROLS – STEERING

Joystick steerer from Adaptacar

Foot steerer from Bristol Street Versa -turntable used with an adapted shoe

Tillersn Steering with a tiller needs less

movement than a steering wheel andsome people find the horizontal gripeasier to use. Holding the tiller can alsogive you more stability. Tillers can befitted with other controls includingaccelerator, main brake and parkingbrake. The force needed and extent ofmovement can be adjusted.

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Mini steering wheelsn Mini steering wheels come in various

sizes and are usually custom built tosuit you. They are for people who havelittle strength or very restrictedmovement. They will be fitted in thebest position for you. Some move outof the way to make it easier to get inand out of the vehicle.

The two handed tiller from Jim Doran alsocontrols speed – you twist the handle toaccelerate and push the tiller forwards to brake

One hand tiller from Jim Doran – youtwist the grip to accelerate and squeezethe lever to brake

AdaptacarBristol Street Versa D S & P Mobility ElectronicsJim DoranSteering Developments

Companies supplying steeringequipment (see pages 35-36)

Mini steering wheel from Adaptacar

Aevit mini steering wheel with joystick forspeed control – from D S & P

Left foot acceleratorsIf you cannot use your right foot, you canfit a left foot accelerator. There are fouralternatives:n Floor mounted pedals attach to the

floor and cover the existing pedal.They can be removed to allow otherpeople to drive the car.

n Flip-up accelerators replace theexisting pedal. You can choose to havethe left or right pedal down.

n A removable pedal is fitted on the left.The original pedal is modified so it canbe removed or folded up.

n An additional pedal is fitted on theleft. A dashboard switch togglesbetween the two pedals.

CONTROLLING SPEED Accelerating and braking in a standard caris usually done using foot pedals. If youcannot operate pedals in the standardway they can be adapted or replaced withhand controls.

However you are controlling yourspeed, you may find cruise control helpfulto reduce fatigue, especially on longjourneys. It is standard on some cars, andavailable as an extra on others. It can befitted to most cars.

Pedal extensionsIf you cannot reach the pedals, you can fitpedal extensions. You can get separateextensions for each pedal, or full sets thatcover all pedals. Often pedal extensionsare used with a platform to raise the floor.

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THE CONTROLS – CONTROLLING SPEED

Pedal-Pal pedal extenders – Roland Kerr

Menox Stamp extension set with raised floor – Autoadapt

Alfred Bekker Bolt on pedal extensions £65 eachAutoadapt Menox Stamp – two or three pedal set price unavailable

with raised platform; quick release attachment to floorMenox Mini Stamp – bolt on to pedals; price unavailablecan be folded up out of the way of other drivers

Cowal Bolt on pedal extensions from £55 eachJim Doran Bolt on pedal extensions from £100 eachRoland Kerr Pedal-Pal bolt on extensions £81 per set unfitted

Companies supplying pedal extensions (see pages 35-36)

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You can fit left foot accelerators to carswith organ style pedals. These are usuallymore expensive.

Adaptacar Sojadis left foot accelerator: removable, electronic from £604Floor mounted accelerator: from £411quick release; includes pedal guard

Alfred Bekker Left foot accelerator: folds flat when not in use £322Quick release Left foot accelerator £375Twin Flip accelerator: flips up £375

Autoadapt Menox left foot accelerator price unavailableMenox quick release accelerator price unavailable

Brig Ayd Electronic left foot accelerator £604Floor mounted pedal transfer £280Twin Flip folding left foot accelerator £375

Cowal Electronic left foot accelerator: switch on dash £580Twin flip folding left foot accelerator from £375Premier Twin Flip (organ style) £520

Elap Quick release left foot accelerator £375Jeff Gosling Twin folding left foot accelerator from £375

Electronic left foot accelerator (switch on dash) £700Jim Doran Left foot accelerator from £450

Organ type £520

Companies supplying left foot accelerators (see pages 35-36)

Quick release accelerator – Brig Ayd

Twin flip accelerator – Brig Ayd

n Left foot accelerators take a lot ofgetting used to, especially if youhave been used to driving anunadapted manual car and therehave been a number of accidentsinvolving drivers who areunfamiliar with them.

n You must have a professionaldriving assessment beforeordering a left foot acceleratorand lessons with a qualifiedinstructor before you start to useone on the road.

Warning

Look for:n Comfort. This depends on the

control’s shape, its padding and itsease of use. Find out where thecontrol can be put. Try it out forwarmth to the touch, lightness,range of movement and smoothnessof operation. See if you can rest yourhand or if gripping it for a long periodwould cause problems.

n Controls which are not tiring. Many people keep their thumb onthe steering wheel and operate thelever with their hand. If you do this,look for a control which can beworked easily from this position on along journey.

n Controls which do not get in the wayof your knees or make it difficult toget in or out of the car.

n Controls which leave enough roomfor your feet. You may need to fit apedal guard or install flip up pedalsto avoid the danger of pressing themaccidentally or stopping themmoving freely.

n Controls which do not stop otherpeople driving the car. All controlsMotability supply aim to do this.

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Hand controlsIf you cannot use your legs at all, or if youdon't want to use a left foot accelerator,you can get hand controls to allow you toaccelerate and brake. Some of thesecombine accelerating and braking in onecontrol; others have separate controls.You can also use an accelerator-onlyhand control alongside a foot brake orvice-versa. With many the force neededto use them can be adjusted to matchyour strength.

Mechanical hand controls areconnected to the pedals with rods.Electronic accelerators are wired into thecar's control systems, which means thereis less to get in the way and also gives youmore delicate control. Usually these cutout automatically when you apply thebrake. Some brake controls are connecteddirectly to the car's hydraulic brakingsystem, bypassing the pedals.

Some are fitted with controls for lights,indicators, windscreen washer and wiper,horn, cruise control and hill start assist.

n Hand controls are usually mounted onthe steering column, on the steeringwheel or on the floor to the left of thedriver. If you are using steering columnor floor mounted controls, you will alsoneed a steering ball or spinner to allowyou to steer one handed (see page 10).

n You may need to fit a guard to keepyour feet out of the pedals (fromaround £100), or if you need the legroom you can fit folding or removablepedals (around £100-150).

THE CONTROLS – CONTROLLING SPEED

Steering column mounted controls These can be mounted on either side of thesteering column.

Controls must be unobtrusiveenough to allow others to drive thecar and be of a type that can beremoved or switched off.

Safety:n Some controls are linked to parts of

the car by rigid metal rods. Thesecould stop the steering columncollapsing or could injure you in acrash, particularly if they are placednear your knee. Look for protectiveguards or designs in which the rodsare hidden or placed well away fromyour knees.

n If the controls are connected to partsof the car by metal rods, check withthe supplier before adjusting thesteering column, as this could bendthe rods or alter their position, whichcould be dangerous. Sometimes thesteering column adjustment isdisabled to prevent this.

n Choose controls and develop adriving technique that allows you toreach and use all the secondarycontrols (see page 21) you needwhile driving.

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n Some cars with automatictransmission have gear selectorson the right of the steeringcolumn (for example ChryslerVoyager). This means you need ahand control for the brake on theleft hand side of the steeringcolumn (because you have toapply the brake to change gear forreversing or parking).

Tip

Jeff Gosling push/pull hand control. Pull to accelerate, push to brake

Brig Ayd Trigger control. Pull trigger toaccelerate (electronic), push away to brake

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Adaptacar Electronic twist grip low effort hand accelerator £1,380Push/pull hand controls £420Push/pull with electronic accelerator £1,380Radial hand controls from £850Radial hand controls electronic £1,143

Alfred Bekker Push/pull hand controls £420Brig Ayd Silverline push/pull hand controls from £420

Electronic trigger accelerator and brake from £1,321Pull up accelerator £297Push brakes £292

Bristol Street Fadiel electronic accelerator and brake £1,800Versa Manual brake £585

Satellite accelerator £1,445Cowal Push/pull hand controls from £420Elap Push/pull hand controls from £430

Electronic trigger accelerator and brake from £1,263Radial accelerator with electronic push brake from £1,667Satellite handheld accelerator from £1,552

Jeff Gosling Push/pull hand controls £450Hand ControlsJim Doran MPS radial hand controls from £720Hand Controls McElmeel Push/pull hand controls from £420PB Conversions Push/pull brake/accelerator £400Techmobility Push/pull brake/accelerator price unavailable

Companies supplying steering column mounted controls (see pages 35-36)

Floor mounted controlsThese are vertical levers attached to thefloor on your left. You pull back toaccelerate, push to brake. A range ofdifferent grips is available. The position ofthe control and the amount of force youneed to use it are both adjustable.

Some come with cruise control built inso that you don’t have to keep your handon the lever.

Because floor mounted controls aremounted on the left of the footwell, theymake it easier to get in and out and forother drivers to use the car. Menox Carospeed from Autoadapt

THE CONTROLS – CONTROLLING SPEED

Steering wheel mounted controlsThese are electronic control rings mountedover or under the steering wheel. Yousqueeze the ring to accelerate. These areusually used with a steering columnmounted brake.

Because they are electronic they don’tneed mechanical linkages and they giveyou smoother control.

Other advantages of these systems arethat you can keep both hands on thesteering wheel at all times and that theydo not interfere with the other controls.

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K5 under ring from Autoadapt – push orpull on the ring to accelerate

AlfredBekker floormountedhandcontrol

Alfred Bekker Floor mounted brake/accelerator price unavailableAutoadapt Menox Carospeed from £800

Companies supplying floor mounted controls (see pages 35-36)

Autoadapt K5 Under ring price unavailableK0 Over ring price unavailable

Elap Over ring electronic accelerator from £1,825Under ring electronic accelerator from £1,825Ghost rotary under ring control from £1,925

Companies supplying steering wheel mounted controls (see pages 35-36)

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CHANGING GEARMost standard cars have manual orautomatic gears. On a manual you have touse your foot on the clutch pedal and yourhand on the gear lever to change gear.Some cars have a form of semi-automatictransmission where you use a lever orbuttons on the steering wheel to select theright gear, but you don't have to use aclutch pedal.

On an automatic, you just have to useyour hand to select between Park, Reverse,Neutral and Drive (you have to apply thebrake while shifting though), and the carautomatically selects the right gear whenyou are driving.

The gear lever is usually on thedashboard or transmission tunnel on your left, though some cars (mostlyautomatics) have them on the steering column.

Look for:n solutions that give you full control

without adapting the car more thanyou have to

n controls where you can find thebiting point easily and ride the clutchif you have to

n hill start assist – holds the brake untilyou pull away

n controls that leave you free tooperate other controls you mightneed to while changing gear.

Safetyn You need to be able to have at least

one hand on the steering wheel at alltimes; whatever solution you go formust allow this.

Simple solutionsGo semi-automaticIf you cannot use your left foot, you mightbe able to use a semi-automatic. You justhave to be able to operate the gearselector, which doesn’t require a lot ofstrength. Make sure the car has a hill start function.

This won’t work if you use hand controlsfor braking, though, because you won’t beable to brake, steer and change gear at the same time.

Go automaticThis is another solution if you can’t useyour left foot. Automatic cars are mucheasier to drive but they are less fuelefficient and they cost more.

You need some strength in your hand tooperate the gear selector on most cars.You can get a simple adaptation to helpwith this (see picture below).

Easy releasegear change - from AlfredBekker

Some semi-automaticshave gearchangebuttons onthe steeringwheel

THE CONTROLS – CHANGING GEAR

PARKING BRAKESimple adaptations can make it easier toapply the parking brake with your lefthand. These are usually levers that helpyou push in the release button.

Some cars have push-button electronicparking brakes. You push the button toapply the brake and it releasesautomatically when you pull away. Youcan also have a push-button parking brakefitted to most cars.

More complex solutionsAdapted clutchYou can adapt theclutch on a manualcar, so you canoperate it with thehand you changegear with instead ofyour foot.

Push-button gear selectorFitted to an automatic car, this allows youto select park, reverse, neutral and drivesettings with one finger. They can bemounted wherever you need them. Youhave to apply the brake to change gear.

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Adaptacar £130Alfred Bekker £68Jeff Gosling from £90

Companies supplying easy releasegear changers (see pages 35-36)

Elap duck clutch

Alfred Bekker £1,975Elap £2,145Vehvac £1,395

Companies supplying adaptedclutches (see pages 35-36)

Spacedrivepush-buttongear selector– Adaptacar

Memory Shift £1517Spacedrive price unavailable

Push-button gear selectorsfrom Adaptacar (see page 35)

Adaptacar £130Alfred Bekker £68-£125Brig Ayd £100Jeff Gosling from £90

Companies supplying parking brakeadaptations (see pages 35-36)

Adaptacar £950Brig Ayd £674Bristol Street £850VersaD S & P price unavailableJim Doran £950

Companies supplying electronicparking brakes (see pages 35-36)

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Secondary controls

The secondary controls are for everythingfrom the ignition, lights and indicators toheating, air conditioning and in carentertainment. You may have difficultyoperating any of these, or they may bemade more difficult by the otheradaptations you are using.

Standard secondary controls on somenewer cars may be easy to use withoutadaptation. For example, some have push-button ignition and remote centrallocking. Windscreen wipers and lightswhich switch themselves on automaticallyare becoming more common. Many carshave controls for cruise control and audioequipment on the steering wheel, and afew have voice controls for these.

SIMPLE CONTROLSThere are many simple attachments tomake secondary controls easier to use andseveral systems which bring all thecontrols together. These can be fitted andadjusted to meet your individual needs.They can eliminate stretching and can beused however little strength and dexterityyou may have. They can also be placed sothat you don’t have to take your hands offthe steering wheel when you use them.You can also have push-button ignitionfitted, either as a separate button or aspart of a control system.

COMPLEX CONTROLSSwitches to control some or all of thefollowing functions can be built into manyhand controls if you are using them.Alternatively they can be controlled fromkeypads mounted on steering spinners(see page 10) or separate keypadsmounted on the dashboard, door panel orelsewhere.

n lights: on/off, main beam, flashn indicators, hazard lightsn hornn windscreens (front and rear):

wiper, washer, defoggern heating, ventilation, air conditioning.

Push-button start

This rod transfers the indicators fromone side of the wheel to the other, soyou can operate the indicators withyour right hand – Alfred Bekker

Indicator switch on hand controls – thisone is from Jeff Gosling

THE CONTROLS – SECONDARY CONTROLS

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Look for:n Buttons that are well spaced and

within easy reach, taking intoaccount the size of your hands. Theyshould be shaped or positioned sothat you can tell them apart bytouch. Avoid any you could confuse.

Safety:n At first some people need to look at

the control to make sure they arepressing the right button. If thismeans there is a danger of not beingable to concentrate enough tocontrol the car, get professionaltuition. Practice finding the rightbutton by touch when the car is stationary.

Touch controlsThese are easy to operate switches whichcan be placed in whatever position isconvenient for you. There are a range ofdesigns and attachments. This, and thefact that their sensitivity can be adjusted,means you should be able to findsomething to suit you. Touch pads needjust a light touch from any part of the bodyin reach; levers can just be nudged by anelbow, for example. You can fit severaltouch pads to control as many features asyou need.

Bleeper and tone systemsIf you don’t have enough dexterity forindividual buttons, you can fit a systemwhich uses a single button to controlseveral functions – the number will dependon the make and model of the unit. Whenyou press the switch you hear a series ofbleeps or tones. Each corresponds to adifferent control. You press the switch until

Multi-function keypads are particularlyuseful for people who have the use of onlyone hand because everything is in thesame place. You do need some dexterity inyour fingers and must be able to tell thebuttons apart. The control can be mountedon the right or left but if you will be usingyour less dominant hand, it can takepractice to get used to it.

Control switches on floor mounted handcontrol (Carospeed from Autoadapt)

Steering ball grip –Lodgesons

Lollipop grip – from Autochair

EMC Digipad from D S & P

Voice control systemsVoice control systems mean you do notneed to move any kind of switch. TheDigivoice will recognise voice commandsto operate up to 18 secondary controlsincluding selecting gear. It is programmedto recognise only one voice so there is nodanger of anyone else accidently takingcontrol of the car.

Instruments, navigation andcommunicationsMore and more cars come withsophisticated gadgets to help you drive insafety and comfort. Most of these can alsobe fitted to just about any car. Theyinclude:

n heads up display – projects instrumentreadings onto the windscreen

n parking sensors and camerasn satellite navigationn hands-free mobile phone systemn cruise control.

you reach the one that corresponds to thecontrol you want. For example the fourthbleep may switch on the sidelights. Thesesystems can be combined with touch pads.Systems cost from about £1,500.

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Some headrest controls from D S & P. One has buttons for six different controls,though most people find it difficult tomanage more than three – you wouldneed good control and upper bodystability. The one button headrest is usedwith a bleeper system. If you areconsidering headrest controls, anassessment will help you decide what you need

Adaptacar Comdis 12 way steering ball £1,290Sojadis 12 way bleeper £1,249

Autoadapt 12 Way steering ball price unavailableAutochair Smartsteer 10/13 way lollipop grip from £1,200D S & P Digipad Econo touchpad price unavailable

Digipad Gold touchpad price unavailablePower Headrest price unavailable

Elap 12 Way steering ball from £709Push button unit price unavailable

Lodgesons 7/10/13/18 way steering ball from £1,5007/10/13/18 way lollipop grip from £1,6009 or 12 Way bleeper price unavailable

Techmobility 9 or 12 Way steering ball price unavailableHeadlight dip/main and flash Switch price unavailable

Companies supplying secondary control systems (see pages 35-36)

THE CONTROLS – SECONDARY CONTROLS

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Electronic ('fly by wire') accelerator andbrake and steering controls can bemounted anywhere and can be controlledby any part of your body where you haveenough movement and control. Remotekeypads to select gears or controlsecondary functions can be mountedanywhere or combined with primarycontrol joysticks. Secondary controls canalso be operated using head switches, suckand blow tubes or other input devices.

Custombuilt controlsAs well as the range of controls discussed in the previous section, completecontrol systems can be built around you. These include devices to help youinto the car as well as driving controls chosen and tailored to fit you

These systems are expensive and haveto be specially adapted to suit you. It isparticularly important to get anassessment to find out if they are likely towork for you, and to have them designedcorrectly around your abilities. You willalso need plenty of time to practise andsome specialist driving instruction.

Your local Mobility Centre (see pages38-40) will be able to help you find asuitable instructor.

Drive from wheelchair vehicle with joystick steering and speed control; keypadsfor gears and secondary controls

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CUSTOM BUILT CONTROLS

This AEVIT J control from D S & P is usedto steer, brake and accelerate. It can beplaced in any position which suits you.You push the joystick from side to side tosteer, pull it back to accelerate and pushit forwards to brake. It has speed sensitivesteering, which adjusts the action and feelof the joystick to your speed. This makesparking and manoeuvring easier. You canswitch the system off if someone else isdriving

Information on companies providing custom built controls solutions can befound in our Mobility address list (see page 43).

Drive from wheelchair vehicle with horizontal steering wheel, joystick speed controlsuck and blow tube for secondary controls and reversing camera

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SEATINGSitting in the right position is one of thekeys to safe and comfortable driving. Youneed good all round vision, the steeringwheel in the right position and controlsyou can reach.

Useful features include:n sports seats can give you more supportn adjustable lumbar supportn extensions to give leg supportn suspension to reduce vibrationn built in heating/ventilationn adjust back and forth to help you get in

and out, and to find the right positionn powered controlsn memory feature to get you back into

your preferred driving position.

If your existing car seat doesn't suit you, trythe following:

CushionsThese provide better comfort and changethe shape of the seat – for example to giveyou a more upright posture or support thesmall of the back. These are sometimesheld in place with Velcro.

Seat adaptationsSome seats can be raised, made to slidefurther back in the car, or swivel out.

Replacement seatsThese include seats that move right out ofthe car, and seats with useful features.

From adaptation firms and specialistdealers. Cushions cost mostly from £20-£80; a wide range of seats is availablefrom £400-£3,000.

A swivelling seat allows easier accessfrom a wheelchair

A drive from wheelchair vehicle allowsyou to use your own supportive seatingsystem to drive

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WAVs (WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE VEHICLES)

Specialist firms convert MPVs, vans andother vehicles so that you can get in andtravel in your wheelchair. If you travel as apassenger you usually sit behind the frontrow of seats, but some designs allow youto sit beside the driver.

Drive from WAVs are designed so thatyou drive from your wheelchair. They canbe fitted with a wide range of hand andother controls – this will be done as part ofthe conversion, which will be tailored tosuit you and your wheelchair. A few WAVsare designed so you transfer to the driver'sseat once you are inside (see page 26).

WAVs either have a ramp or a lift. Alllifts are powered but some ramps aredeployed by hand (you will need help). Ifyou use a ramp, a winch can be fitted tohelp get you in (only suitable if someonehelps you, as you won’t be able to attachthe winch yourself). All drive fromwheelchair WAVs are designed to be usedwithout help so the doors open and theramp unfolds at a touch of a button.

The number of passengers a WAV cancarry depends on the base vehicle and the

conversion. Some carry just the driver anda passenger in a wheelchair, but some willcarry five or more additional passengers.Some WAVs have folding or removablerear seats that can be used when awheelchair is not being carried.

You go in at the rear or the side of thevehicle. Side-entry WAVs can be easier foron-street parking (because you don't needso much room behind, and you don't haveto get your wheelchair into the road), butyou may not be able to use them in all carparks. The Wav-Evolution has a speciallyadapted front door that lets you enterdirectly into the front passenger space.

See our Wheelchair accessible vehiclesguide (see page 43) for more informationor contact converters (see our Mobilityaddress list) for detailed information on thevehicles they supply. Always try out a WAVyou are considering – converters will bringa demonstration vehicle to you. TheWheelchair Accessible Vehicles ConvertersAssociation (see page 42) requires itsmembers to provide this service and tomeet other service standards.

I Can – from £33,295 Wav-Evolution – from £20,995

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SafetyAdapted controls are safe. However, any modification to the inside of your carand to the way you drive it introduces new risks. Successful adaptationsshould minimise these additional risks

If you have driven before, it may be betterto opt for controls which are as close aspossible to standard. You will learn faster,make fewer mistakes and feel more confident.

If you are new to driving, or have madesignificant changes to the controls, youwill need training from a specialist drivinginstructor. Your local Mobility Centre (seepages 38-40) should be able to help youfind one.

Secondary safety

The extent to which the design of a vehicleprotects you in a crash is known assecondary safety. Cars these days havemany secondary safety features, includingairbags, strengthened areas to protect you,deformable materials and steeringcolumns which collapse away from you in acrash. The adaptation of car controlsinvolves compromises in design, and somemay interfere with the protective featuresbuilt into the car.

In our survey nearly nine out of tenpeople said that secondary safety wasimportant to them. However with someequipment safety comes at a price. Youneed to balance risk against cost. Ourview is that controls should be designedwith good secondary safety. Where thisis not possible you need enoughinformation to be aware of the extent of

any risk you are incurring. Some commonsense rules based on research we carriedout on this subject in 1998 are:n avoid push-pull controls or brake levers

which have rigid bars or pivots close toyour knee, because they could causeinjury in a crash

n avoid adaptations in which bulkyequipment is mounted in the footwell

n avoid devices which will stiffen thesteering column and prevent itcollapsing progressively in a crash

n look for designs in which solid parts areprotected by padding.

Automatic fire extinguishersFires in cars are very rare but if you do haveone it may be difficult to handle a fireextinguisher, and you may need to actquickly to give yourself more time to getout of the car.

Automatic fire extinguishers are fittedas a matter of course on all high techconversions funded by Motability. They area good idea for everybody. The fireextinguisher is fitted to the car, and isconnected to a plastic tube which runsaround the cabin and the enginecompartment. If a fire breaks out, the tubebursts at the point nearest the fire to letout the extinguishing fluid. Fromconverters and adaptation companies,from £30 to £300 (depending on the typeand model).

Airbags

Airbags are fitted to most new cars andthey form an integral part of the car'ssafety system. In an accident they inflatequickly to protect you by providing acushion between you and any hardsurfaces which may injure you. Airbags arefitted in the steering wheel and dashboardand increasingly in the door or seat toprotect you from the side ('side airbags')and in the foot well to prevent you fromsliding off the seat in an accident ('kneebolster airbags').

AIRBAGS AND ADAPTEDCONTROLSThere has been some concern about howadapted controls may affect the workingof the airbag. Tests and expert opinionsuggest that:n Hand controls fitted to the rim of the

steering wheel do not stop the baginflating. The bag should not damagethem, although they may get pushedout of place.

n Joystick controls should not be fitted infront of the airbag, but to one side of it.

29

n Rods connecting hand controls topedals should be close to the steeringcolumn and preferably enclosed tokeep them out of the way of kneebolster airbags.

n It is usually better to leave an airbag inplace and switched on even if yourcontrols may get in the way if it inflates.

AIRBAGS AND SEATINGPOSITIONYou could be injured by the airbag if you sittoo close to it, though modern cars have amulti-stage inflation system whichreduces this risk. Safety expertsrecommend:n sitting as far back as is practicablen if you have an adjustable steering

wheel, tilt it down slightly so that theairbag is less likely to hit your head orneck directly.

Don’t end up in an uncomfortable drivingposition or one in which you have to strainto use the controls. Check that your drivingposition does not restrict your view from the car.

Removing or disabling airbags

n When a small child is travelling in the front passenger seat in a child seat,then the airbag should be switched off on that side. Apart from this it is not recommended to remove or disable airbags, unless it is absolutely necessary.

n If an airbag does need to be removed this must be done by the dealer whosupplied the car or an approved airbag specialist. The car’s manufacturerwill have information on how it can be done safely. Check that removing itwill not stop other airbags working. You must also tell your insurer.

n If an airbag has been removed or deactivated, this may cause problems forthe MOT test. To avoid difficulties you should discuss this with the testcentre when booking your MOT.

SAFETY

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DRIVING LICENCEMobility Centres or disabled drivers’organisations will be able to help you finda driving instructor who specialises inteaching disabled drivers. They use carswith adapted controls or will teach you in your own car.

Drivers of adapted cars take the sametest as everyone else. If you drive anadapted car and you have advised theDriving and Vehicle Licensing Agency,details will appear in code form on yourlicence. The adaptations recorded are:modified transmission, modified clutch,modified braking and accelerationsystems, modified control layouts,modified steering, modified rear viewmirrors and modified driving seats. You can only drive cars with similar equipment.

There’s no top age limit to driving. Youhave to renew your licence at 70 andevery three years after that. A form will besent to you by the DVLA.

You must tell them of any disabilitywhen applying for a licence for the firsttime. You must also tell them if you havea new medical condition or one which hasgot worse since passing your driving testor since your last licence was issued.Conditions you have to tell them aboutinclude fits or blackouts, seizures, diabetes,angina attacks which are provoked bydriving, memory problems, stroke, braininjury, brain surgery, pacemaker, difficultyin using your arms or legs and any visualcondition which affects both eyes.

You may be sent a questionnaire and willbe asked to give permission for theMedical Advisor to contact your doctor orspecialist. If your driving licence is forautomatic cars only, you must make surethe clutch pedal is removed if you haveadapted a manual gearbox. Read more atwww.direct.gov.uk/driverhealth or inWhat you need to know about drivinglicences from a post office.

VEHICLE EXCISE DUTY(ROAD TAX)You don’t have to pay Road Tax if you getthe Higher Rate Mobility Component ofthe Disability Living Allowance or the WarPensioner’s Mobility Supplement.

If you are not the driver you have toprovide the name of whoever will drive foryou. The vehicle must be registered in youror your nominee’s name. It must be usedonly by you or for your benefit – such as todo your shopping. Anyone can drive it aslong as they are insured.

To claim, get an exemption certificatefrom the Disability Living Allowance Unitof the Department for Work and Pensions(08457 123 456) or the Veterans Agency(0800 169 2277). You can then get yourfree tax disc at post offices which issueroad tax, or by post. If the dealer isregistering your new vehicle for you, youwill need to let them have your certificate.Renewals can be made online.

Motability Contract Hire vehicles (seepages 32-33) don’t need a certificate – thetax disc is arranged by Motability.

The law

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INSURANCEUnder the Disability Discrimination Act,insurers are not allowed to refuse disableddrivers insurance or charge extra withoutjustifying evidence. Premiums must bebased on a reasonable assessment of risk.Insurers will take account of any DVLArestrictions on your licence, but this is notin itself justification for a higher premium.However, you may have to pay more:

n while you are adjusting to a newdisability if there is evidence that thiswill increase the risk

n to cover any extra cost of repairing an adapted vehicle.

As with all insurance, shop around to get thebest deal. If you feel you are being chargedmore for your policy than other drivers insimilar circumstances, ask the insurancecompany for details of why they consideryou to be a greater risk. Mobility Centres andorganisations of disabled drivers have lists ofspecialist insurance companies.

We know of the following companieswhich specialise in insurance services fordisabled people:

n Chartwell n En-route n First Senior n Fishn Locktonn Premier Care

BLUE BADGE SCHEME

The Blue Badge Scheme offers parkingconcessions for disabled people withsevere walking difficulties who need topark close to their destinations. Thescheme also applies to registered blindpeople, people with severe upper limbdisabilities in both arms who regularlydrive a car and children under three withspecific medical conditions.

You can use designated disabled parkingbays in car parks and on the street, park forup to three hours on single and doubleyellow lines and often park for free in localauthority car parks and bays (check first, assome local authorities still charge). InCentral London boroughs, parking is onlyin designated bays.

The scheme is administered by localauthorities which deal with applicationsand issue badges.

For more information contact your localauthority or go towww.direct.gov.uk/bluebadge orwww.dft.gov.uk (follow the link for theblue badge scheme).

0845 260 70510800 783 724501582 8400670800 012 6329020 7933 000001476 591104

THE LAW

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FinanceMOTABILITY

If you receive either the Higher RateMobility Component of the DisabilityLiving Allowance or the War Pensioner’sMobility Supplement you are eligible forthe Motability Scheme. Your allowancegoes towards the cost of a car, scooter orpowered wheelchair of your choice.

Leasing through Motability You use your mobility allowance to lease anew car from Motability for three years(five years for a wheelchair accessiblevehicle). Maintenance and servicing costs,insurance for two drivers (up to twoadditional drivers can be added for a fee)and RAC breakdown assistance areincluded. There is a mileage allowance of20,000 miles per year (additional miles arecharged at 5p per mile).

You can choose a model from all themain manufacturers. If you choose onethat is more expensive than is covered bythe mobility allowance, you make anadvance payment (the amount varies,depending on the car and on whichallowance you get). Motability offers over300 cars which require no advancepayment.

AdaptationsThe Motability Contract Hire scheme willalso cover, or contribute to, the cost ofadaptations. Motability has a list of

available adaptations, with costs attached(many are free). They operate a ManagedAdaptations Programme which can makethe process both easier and cheaper. Youcan only make use of this programmewhen you are ordering your new car.

If you want to fit your own adaptationsduring your lease, or fit something notavailable through the programme, you willhave to fund this yourself. Motabilityadminister a number of funds (see Grantsbelow) which may be able to help. Anyadaptations must be supplied and fitted bya Motability Adaptations Partner.

GrantsMotability administer the governmentSpecialised Vehicle Funds as well as havingtheir own charitable fund.

If you are considering the MotabilityScheme you can apply for a grant forthings like adaptations, advance paymentson more expensive vehicles and drivinglessons (for people under 25). You have toprovide details of your circumstances,which will be checked. Motability can onlyhelp towards the least expensive solutionthat meets your needs. They will assessyour needs and make suitablerecommendations.

Contact Motability Operations for moreinformation about this or any other aspectof the Motability Scheme.

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Motability OperationsCity Gate House22 Southwark Bridge RoadLondon SE1 9HBTel: 0845 456 4566Textphone: 0845 675 0009www.motability.co.uk

OTHER SOURCES OFFINANCECharitiesSome charities give grants to individuals.n Your local library should be able to help

you find sources, such as the RoundTable, Rotary or Lions Club and otherlocal charities.

n Try your appropriate disability groupsuch as Scope, the MS Society or theMuscular Dystrophy Campaign, whomay know of sources of help.

n If you are aged 50 or over, Charity Searchprovides a free service to help you find agrant-giving charity:Freepost (BS 6610)Avonmouth, Bristol BS11 9TWTel: 0117 982 4060 (9.30 to 2.30 Mon–Thurs)Email: info@charitysearch.org.ukWeb: www.charitysearch.org.uk

n Turn2us provides a free service to helpyou find financial support in the formof welfare benefits, grants and otherhelp tailored to your circumstances.Tel: 0808 802 2000 (8-8 Mon-Fri)www.turn2us.org.uk

n The Family Fund helps families withseverely disabled children aged 17 andunder, whose household income is lessthan £28,000 a year. They may be ableto contribute towards the cost ofadapting a car or with driving lessons.They do not usually help with the costof buying a car.Unit 4, Alpha Court, Monks Cross DriveHuntingdon, York YO32 9WNTel: 0845 130 4542Fax: 01904 652 625Textphone: 01904 658085Email: info@familyfund.org.ukWeb: www.familyfund.org.uk

Statutory sourcesn Social services – may be worth trying,

especially if you do not get DisabilityLiving Allowance or if you have alreadyused your mobility component to leaseor buy a vehicle.

n Access to Work – if you are in work orabout to start work, you may be able toget help from the Access to Workscheme. They may cover the cost ofadaptations to a vehicle if this is theonly or most cost effective way for youto get to work. Cases are assessed on anindividual basis. Contact your localJobcentre Plus or visitwww.direct.gov.uk/disabledpeople.

FINANCE

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VATYou do not pay VAT on products designedand sold specifically for disabled people.This means all adaptations, installation,repair and maintenance are zero rated.

What kind of adaptations count?n Those which make it possible for you to

get in and out of the vehicle, such as aswivel seat.

n Those which make it possible for you todrive, such as hand controls for primarydriving controls and infra red systemsfor secondary controls. Note thatstandard extras such as automatictransmission would not be enough to qualify.

n Those which enable a wheelchair to becarried in the vehicle, such as a hoist.Trailers, roof or rear racks would notcount as they are not vehicleadaptations.

Adaptations have to be permanent – whichmeans in practice that they have to bewelded or bolted on. Repair andmaintenance to the vehicle is also zerorated. The supplier of the vehicle has to besatisfied that you qualify, and you will haveto sign a form declaring your disability.

Wheelchair and stretcher usersAdditionally, if you use a wheelchair orstretcher you may not have to pay VAT onthe price of the car or for its repair ormaintenance.

To qualify you must:n be a wheelchair user. Temporary

users do not count and nor do scooterusers or

n need to be carried in a stretcher.

The car mustn have been designed or substantially

and permanently adapted for theperson who normally uses awheelchair or stretcher

n carry no more than 12 peoplen be for domestic or personal use.

Vehicles owned and run by businesses donot qualify. However you can use aqualifying adapted vehicle for work if it isincidental to its main private use.

VAT relief applies only to new cars, so ifyou are buying a car with the intention ofhaving controls fitted, it may be worthyour while to consider buying a new carrather than a secondhand one as you willnot have to pay VAT on the car.

More information: VAT Notice 701/7 VATrelief for people with disabilities fromHMRC national advice serviceTel: 0845 010 9000www.hmrc.gov.uk.

n You must buy and adapt the carat the same time – you cannotget a VAT refund for adaptationsmade later.

n Alterations made to a car beforeit is registered have to have typeapproval. In practice this meansthat it is only legal to fit theseadaptations after registration.You have to register the car, haveit adapted and then pay for it.

n Talk to the firm who is adaptingyour car – they will be able tomake appropriate arrangements.

Important

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SuppliersEquipmentsuppliers

Here we list the suppliers who make orimport control adaptations. Some of themfit equipment themselves, and they all selltheir equipment to adaptation companies,who may be more local to you.

Contact the supplier for moreinformation about their products and tofind a local installer. You’ll find a completelist of adaptation companies in ourMobility address list (see page 43).

AdaptacarTel: 01769 572785Email: sales@adaptacar.co.ukwww.adaptacar.co.uk

Alfred BekkerTel: 01377 241700Email: info@alfredbekker.comwww.alfredbekker.co.uk

AutoadaptTel: 0121 333 5170Email: contact@autoadapt.co.ukwww.autoadapt.co.uk

Autochair Tel: 01773 830222Email: demo@autochair.co.ukwww.autochair.co.uk

Brig AydTel: 01707 322322Email: sales@brig-aydcontrols.co.ukwww.brig-aydcontrols.co.uk

Bristol Street VersaTel: 08433 081 814Email: sales@kcmobility.co.ukwww.bristolstreetversa.com

CowalTel: 01494 714400Email: sales@cowalmobility.co.ukwww.cowalmobility.co.uk

D S & P Mobility ElectronicsTel: 01296 658508Email: sales@dsp-mobilityelectronics.comwww.dsp-mobilityelectronics.com

ElapTel: 08000 433159Email: mail@elap.co.ukwww.elap.co.uk

Jeff Gosling Tel: 0161 430 2151Email: info@jeffgosling.co.ukwww.jeffgosling.co.uk

Jim Doran Tel: 024 7646 0833Email: info@jdhc.co.ukwww.jdhc.co.uk

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LodgesonsTel: 029 2043 6980Email:sales@lodgesons.co.ukwww.lodgesons.co.uk

McElmeelTel: 028 3752 5333Email: info@mobility-services.comwww.mobility-services.com

PB ConversionsTel: 01525 850588Email: pbconversions@aol.comwww.pbconversions.co.uk

Roland KerrTel: 020 8546 8125

Steering DevelopmentsTel: 01442 212918Email:enquiries@steeringdevelopments.co.ukwww.steeringdevelopments.co.uk

TechmobilityTel: 01376 564499Email: phil@techmobilityuk.comwww.techmobilityuk.com

VehvacTel: 01732 868080Email: info@vehvac.comwww.vehvac.com

Buying secondhand

You can buy adapted vehicles andequipment secondhand from somevehicle converters (see the Address list),and from the sources listed here. Thesecondhand market has grownconsiderably and a specialist secondhanddealer should be able to find a vehicle tosuit your needs quite quickly.Anything you buy secondhand may beaffected by safety and reliability issues.The seller may have had an inspectioncarried out and/or offer a warranty. If not,you may want to think about carryingout your own inspection.

CLASSIFIEDADVERTISEMENTSThe following websites carry listings foradapted vehicles. Also see Disability Now(see page 41).

Autotraderwww.autotrader.co.ukDisability Equipment Registerwww.disabilityequipment.org.uk Disabled Gearwww.disabledgear.comebaywww.ebay.co.ukJustmobility www.justmobility.co.ukPrelovedwww.preloved.co.uk

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SECONDHAND DEALERSThe following companies sellsecondhand WAVs. Please note that wehave not evaluated them for reliability orservice.

The Accessible Motor CompanyTel: 01865 300361www.amcwav.com

AutobilityTel: 0800 298 9290www.autobility.co.uk

Clarke MobilityTel: 01622 793079www.clarkemobility.com

Mobility NationwideTel: 01824 707773mobilitynationwide.co.uk

Silverline MobilityTel: 0844 800 9421wheelchair-accessible-vehicle.co.uk

Southern Mobility VehiclesTel: 01243 586444 (Sussex)Tel: 01883 624041 (Surrey)www.southernmobilityvehicles.co.uk

Wheelchair Accessible MotorCompanyTel: 01384 370530www.twamco.co.uk

Wheelchair Accessible VehiclesTel: 01325 389900www.wheelchairaccessiblevehicles.co.uk

Rental

The companies listed here provideadapted vehicles on short or long termrental. Please note that we have notevaluated them for reliability or service.You can also hire adapted vehicles frommany of the converters listed in ourMobility address list (see page 43)

Adapted Car HireTel: 0845 68 62 007www.adaptedcarhire.co.uk Adapted Vehicle Hire LtdTel: 0845 257 1670www.avhltd.comSpecialist Vehicle RentalTel: 0845 293 2799www.specialistvehiclerental.co.ukWheelchair TravelTel: 01483 233640www.wheelchair-travel.co.uk

Lynx Hand ControlsLynx hand controls are designed to beused temporarily in any car, includinghire cars. They bolt on and off the pedalsin minutes and allow you to controlaccelerator and brake with one hand.Lynx also offer a car hire service.Tel: 01695 422622www.lynxcontrols.com

Lynx hand controls

SUPPLIERS

MOBILITY CENTRESYour first stop is likely to be a MobilityCentre – for telephone advice or for anassessment of your needs, for example.There are 16 Mobility Centres in the UK.They give practical and independentadvice and assessment to disabled driversand passengers. They will assess yourability to drive, advise you about cars thatmight suit you and about any adaptationsyou may need. They are well informed onmotoring and disability issues generally.Each centre has expert and friendly staffwho are likely to have met and solvedsimilar problems before. They are noncommercial and impartial.

An assessment for a driver referring himor herself will cost from £50 to £130(depending on the centre). In Scotlandassessment is free if referred by a GP. Costsfor assessment as a passenger are lower –generally around £20 – £50. Motabilitycustomers may qualify for a freeassessment under the ManagedAdaptation Programme.

Mobility Centres are accredited by theForum of Mobility Centres and havecertain minimum standards. For moreinformation on the centres contact:

The Forum of Mobility Centresc/o Providence Chapel, WarehorneAshford, Kent TN26 2JXTel: 0800 559 3636Email: enquiries@mobility-centres.org.ukwww.mobility-centres.org.uk

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UsefulorganisationsKey to servicesThe centres vary in size and in the services they offer. Here we detail some of the services offered:I free information serviceD advice on choosing a vehicle, driving it,

driving controls and learning to driveP assessment and advice about getting in

and out of vehicles, loading of wheelchairs and other equipment

W advice on selecting and using awheelchair or scooter

T driving tuition for new drivers, peoplereturning to driving and those who willusing different controls

A fitting adaptations for drivers or passengers

BristolLiving, The Vassall CentreGill Avenue, Fishponds, Bristol BS16 2QQTel: 0117 965 9353Fax: 0117 965 3652Email: mobserv@thisisliving.org.ukwww.thisisliving.org.ukServices: I D P W T

CornwallCornwall Mobility CentreTehidy House, Royal Cornwall HospitalTruro TR1 3LJSatellite centres: Exeter, Holsworthy,Liskeard, PlymouthTel: 01872 254920Fax: 01872 254921Email:

enquiries@cornwallmobilitycentre.co.ukwww.cornwallmobilitycentre.co.ukServices: I D P W T A

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USEFUL ORGANISATIONS

DerbyshireDerby DrivAbilityKingsway Hospital, KingswayDerby DE22 3LZTel: 01332 371929Fax: 01332 382377Email: driving@derbyhospitals.nhs.uk www.derbydrivability.comServices: I D P T

HampshireLeornain House Kent RoadPortswood, Southampton SO17 2LJTel: 023 8051 2222Email: enquiries@wessexdriveability.org.ukwww.wessexdriveability.org.ukServices: I P

HertfordshireHertfordshire Action on Disability (HAD)The Woodside Centre, The CommonsWelwyn Garden City AL7 4DDSatellite centre: DunstableTel: 01707 324581Fax: 01707 371297Email: driving@hadnet.org.ukwww.hadnet.org.ukServices: I D P W T

KentSouth East DriveAbilityKent Community Health NHS TrustSt Lawrence AvenueAllington, Kent ME16 0LLSatellite centres: Hailsham, Herne Bay Tel: 01622 795719Fax: 01622 795720Email: wk-pct.sedriveability@nhs.netwww.kentcht.nhs.uk/get-involved/south-

east-drive-abilityServices: I D P T

LancashireWrightington Mobility CentreWrightington Hospital, Hall LaneAppley Bridge, Lancs WN6 9EPSatellite centre: Tyldsley (Manchester)Tel: 01257 256409Fax: 01257 256538Email: mobility.centre@bridgewater.nhs.ukServices: I D P T

NorfolkEast Anglian DriveAbility2 Napier Place, Thetford IP24 3RLSatellite centres: Coggeshall, SpaldingTel: 01842 753029Fax: 01842 755950Email: mail@eastangliandriveability.org.ukwww.eastangliandriveablity.org.ukServices: I D P W T

North EastNorth East Drive Mobility, Walkergate Park Centre for Neuro-

rehabilitation and Neuro-psychiatry Benfield RoadNewcastle upon Tyne NE6 4QDSatellite centre: PenrithTel: 0191 287 5090 Email: northeast.drivemobility@ntw.nhs.ukwww.ntw.nhs.ukServices: I D P

SurreyQEF Mobility ServicesDamson Way, Fountain DriveCarshalton, Surrey SM5 4NRTel: 020 8770 1151Fax: 020 8770 1211Email: mobility@qef.org.ukwww.qefd.orgServices: I D P W T

40

West MidlandsRegional Driving Assessment CentreUnit 11, Network ParkDuddeston Mill Road, Birmingham B8 1AUSatellite centres: Cannock, Hull,Northampton, OxfordTel: 0845 337 1540Fax: 0121 333 4568Email: info@rdac.co.ukwww.rdac.co.ukServices: I D P T

West YorkshireThe William Merritt CentreDisabled Living Centre and Mobility

ServiceSt Mary’s Hospital, Green Hill RoadArmley, Leeds LS12 3QETel: 0113 305 5288Fax: 0113 231 9291Email: mobility.service@nhs.netwww.williammerrittleeds.orgServices: I D P W

NORTHERN IRELANDDisability Action, Portside Business Park189 Airport Road, Belfast BT3 9EDSatellite centres: Ballymena,Dungannon, Londonderry, NewryTel: 028 9029 7880Fax: 028 9029 7881Email:

mobilitycentre@disabilityaction.orgwww.disabilityaction.orgServices: I D P T

SCOTLANDScottish Driving Assessment ServiceAstley Ainslie Hospital133 Grange LoanEdinburgh EH9 2HLSatellite centre: Mobile DrivingAssessmentServiceTel: 0131 537 9192Fax: 0131 537 9193Email:marlene.mackenzie@nhslothian.scot.nhs.ukServices: I D P

NORTH WALESNorth Wales Mobility and Driving Assessment ServiceDisability Resources CentreGlan Clwyd HospitalBodelwyddanDenbighshire LL18 5UJSatellite centre: NewtownTel: 01745 584 858Fax: 01745 582 762Email: mobilityinfo@btconnect.comwww.wmdas.co.ukServices: I D P W T A

SOUTH WALESSouth Wales Mobility and Driving Assessment ServiceRookwood HospitalFairwater RoadLlandaffCardiff CF5 2YNSatellite centre: PembrokeTel: 029 2055 5130Fax: 029 2055 5130Email: helen@wddac.co.ukwww.wmdas.co.ukServices: I D P

41

OTHER ORGANISATIONS

Assist UKNational network of centresoffering advice on independentliving equipment. Your local

centre can advise about wheelchairs and accessories.Tel: 0161 238 8776Email: general.info@assist-uk.orgwww.assist-uk.org

Blue Badge NetworkHas information, news and ideas relatingto parking concessions in particular anddisability issues in general.11 Parson’s Street, Dudley DY1 1JJTel: 01384 257001Fax: 01384 257317Email:

headoffice@bluebadgenetwork.org.ukwww.bluebadgenetwork.org.uk

DirectgovA website providinginformation about

public services. They have useful sectionson motoring and on disability.www.direct.gov.uk/disabledpeople

Disabled LivingFoundationAdvice and information

on disability equipment. They have adatabase of products and suppliers. 380–384 Harrow RoadLondon W9 2HUTel: 0845 130 9177(weekdays 10am to 4pm)www.dlf.org.ukwww.livingmadeeasy.org.uk

Disability NowA monthly newspaper published by SCOPEwith reviews by disabled people andclassified advertisements. Subscribe ororder from your newsagent. Tel: 0844 249 0228Email: dnsubs@servicehelpline.co.ukwww.disabilitynow.org.uk

Driver and Vehicle Licensing AgencyDrivers Medical GroupDVLASwansea SA99 1TUTel: 0300 790 6806Fax: 0845 850 0095Email: eftd@dvla.gsi.gov.ukwww.direct.gov.uk/driverhealthNorthern IrelandDriver and Vehicle Agency Drivers Medical

SectionCounty Hall, Castlerock RoadColeraine BT51 3TBTel: 0845 402 4000Email: dvlni@doeni.gov.ukwww.dvani.gov.uk

Disabled Motoring UKThe campaigning charityfor disabled motorists.They run the Baywatch

campaign against parking abuse andrepresent disabled people’s needs at anational level. Membership, £20 per year(£30 for joint members), includes amonthly magazine, advice service and member benefits.Ashwellthorpe, Norwich NR16 1EXTel: 01508 489449Email: info@disabledmotoring.orgwww.disabledmotoring.org

USEFUL ORGANISATIONS

42

MobilityRoadshowsHave a wide range of

adapted cars and mobility products to seeand try. Manufacturers and organisationsare on hand to give advice anddemonstrations. Roadshows are free.In England and Scotland: Mobility ChoiceTel: 0845 241 0390Fax: 0845 241 2136Email: choice@gtnet.gov.ukwww.mobilityroadshow.co.ukIn Northern Ireland: Disability ActionTel: 028 9029 7880Fax: 028 9029 7881Textphone: 028 9029 7882Email: marketing@disabilityaction.orgwww.disabilityaction.org

Motability One Big DayMotability run these regional events forusers or prospective users of the scheme –you can see and try cars and equipmentTel: 0800 953 4002www.motabilityevents.co.uk

RemapA voluntaryorganisation ofengineers who

invent, design and make devices or carryout adaptations to help disabled people tobe more independent or to enjoy leisureactivities.

England, Wales and NID9 Chaucer Business ParkKemsing, Kent TN15 6YUTel: 0845 130 0456Fax: 0845 130 0789Email: info@remap.org.ukwww.remap.org.uk

Remap ScotlandThe website has a useful map showing thelocations of local groups.Forgue House, Forgue, Huntly AB54 6DATel: 01466 730 736Email: remap-scotland@btconnect.comwww.remap-scotland.org

Service CallA service that allows disabledpeople to use petrol stations and

other services that are difficult to access.You carry an infrared transmitter (£14.95inc p&p), which you use to signal that youneed assistance at participating outlets,which include thousands of petrol stations,banks, supermarkets, shops and others.Tel: 0800 458 3008Email: info@service-call.netwww.service-call.net

Wheelchair AccessibleVehicle Converters’Association

The trade association for companies whomake and sell WAVs. WAVCA aims toimprove the quality and safety of WAVsand lobbies for legislation for wheelchairpassenger vehicles

Members must: n have been trading for at least 2 yearsn offer at least 3 years warranty n have passed safety tests on restraints

and seat beltsn demonstrate a commitment to

customer service.

Email: enquiries@wavca.co.ukwww.wavca.co.uk

Ricability guides

n For full details of the Motability Insurance range visitwww.motability.co.uk or call direct:

Motability HOME InsuranceMotability PET InsuranceMotability TRAVEL Insurancen For every policy sold, the insurance providers will

pay a proportion of the premium in commission toMotability to help disabled people remain mobile.

Motability has teamed up with leading home, pet and travel insurers

0800 783 00610800 369 90940800 519 9957

Spring 2011

Ricability is a research charitythat publishes independentinformation on products and services for older and disabled people

RicabilityUnit G03 The Wenlock50–52 Wharf RoadLondon N1 7EUTel: 020 7427 2460Fax: 020 7427 2468Textphone: 020 7427 2469e-mail: mail@ricability.org.ukwww.ricability.org.uk

ISBN: 978-1-907408-04-5© Ricability2011

ricabilityricability

A guide for older and disabled people

Getting in and out of a car

ricability

2011

Ricability is an independentresearch charity that publishesinformation on products and services for older and disabled people

RicabilityUnit G03 The Wenlock50–52 Wharf RoadLondon N1 7EUTel: 020 7427 2460Fax: 020 7427 2468Textphone: 020 7427 2469Email: mail@ricability.org.ukwww.ricability.org.uk

Research: Jasper HolmesPhotography: Cover illustration: Michael MundayDesign: Price WatkinsPrint: WPG

ISBN: © Ricability2011

ricability

A guide for older and disabled people

Wheelchair accessible vehicles

ricabilityricability

Ricability is a research charity that publishes independent informationon products and services for older and disabled people

RicabilityUnit G03 The Wenlock50–52 Wharf RoadLondon N1 7EUTel: 020 7427 2460Fax: 020 7427 2468Textphone: 020 7427 2469e-mail: mail@ricability.org.ukwww.ricability.org.ukwww.ricability-digitaltv.org.uk

ISBN: 978-1-907408-03-8© RicabilityAutumn 2010

A guide for older and disabled people

Getting awheelchair into acar

2010

EDITIO

N

ricabilityricability

A guide for older and disabled people

Choosing a car

2011

Ricability is an independentresearch charity that publishesinformation on products and services for older and disabled people

Tel: 020 7427 2460Textphone: 020 7427 2469Email: mail@ricability.org.ukwww.ricability.org.uk

ISBN: 978-1-907408-07-6© Ricability 2011

In partnership with:

CHOOSING A CARThings to think about ifyou have a disability, details of features thatmay help you and waysof adapting a car to suityour needs

GETTING AWHEELCHAIR INTO A CAREquipment to help youstow or carry awheelchair in a car,including ramps, hoists,racks and trailers

WHEELCHAIRACCESSIBLEVEHICLESInformation on vehiclesconverted to allow youto travel in yourwheelchair, as apassenger or driver.

GETTING INAND OUT OF ACARTechniques that mayhelp as you get older;helpful equipment anddetails of lifting systemsif you need more help

All these guides are available in print and online at www.ricability.org.uk. Our website also has a searchable database of car measurements called Find a car.

ricability

Mobilityaddress list

2012

MOBILITYADDRESS LISTAddresses of alladaptation suppliers,fitters and converters inthe UK and the servicesthey offer

SEVEN SHORTER GUIDESn Motoring after an amputationn Motoring after a brain injuryn Motoring after a stroken Motoring with arthritisn Motoring with cerebral palsyn Motoring with multiple sclerosisn Motoring with restricted growth

ricabilityRicability is a research charitythat publishes independentinformation on products and services for older and disabled people

RicabilityUnit G03 The Wenlock50–52 Wharf RoadLondon N1 7EUTel: 020 7427 2460Fax: 020 7427 2468Textphone: 020 7427 2469Email: mail@ricability.org.ukwww.ricability.org.uk

Research and writing: Jasper HolmesPhotography: Robin Beckham,

SuppliersCover illustration: Michael MundayDesign: Price WatkinsPrinting: WPG

ISBN: 978-1-907408-16-8© Ricability 2012

Funded by: