Adaptations for driving
Hand controls may operate acceleration and braking, while steering aids can reduce the grip or movement required. Pedal extensions and other controls suit particular needs. The driver must be assessed and trained with the equipment, and the licensing and insurance implications should be addressed before driving on the road.
Getting into the seat
A swivel seat can turn and sometimes extend beyond the door opening. Transfer boards, person hoists and lowered steps may also help. Measure the doorway, sill height and space beside the parked car. A solution that works in an open demonstration area may be unusable in a narrow garage.
Carrying a wheelchair or scooter
Boot hoists lift equipment into the vehicle but need enough headroom, safe lifting points and spare load capacity. Rooftop systems suit some manual wheelchairs. Ramps and trailers bring different handling and storage issues. Take the exact mobility equipment to the vehicle trial rather than relying on dimensions alone.
Insurance, licensing and notification
Tell the insurer about adaptations and check that the driver is licensed for the controls used. Some changes may need information supplied to DVLA. Keep invoices and equipment details. If the adaptation is removed or transferred to another car, update the relevant records.
Where to get independent advice
Driving Mobility centres provide assessments and advice on driving, passenger access and mobility equipment. The Motability Scheme may fund or arrange some adaptations with an eligible lease. Ask whether an adaptation can be transferred, who services it and what happens if either the equipment or vehicle is off the road.
Have the adaptation reviewed when situation change
A change in strength, medication, vision or movement can affect how safely controls are used. A replacement wheelchair may no longer match a hoist, and a different car can alter transfer height. Seek reassessment rather than modifying equipment informally. Service the adaptation as recommended and report stiffness, unusual movement or intermittent electrical faults. When the car is serviced, make sure the garage knows what has been added and does not disconnect or obstruct essential equipment without explaining what it has done. Practise using controls while wearing the footwear and outer clothing normally used for journeys. Thick coats can change a transfer and bags can obstruct hand controls. If another person sometimes drives, check how quickly standard controls can be restored and whether adaptations restrict their seating position. Labels should be understandable but not distract the driver. Build confidence on quiet roads after training, and avoid setting out alone until starting, parking, refuelling or charging, and dealing with mobility equipment all feel manageable. Keep emergency contacts in the vehicle and on a phone. If an adaptation prevents ordinary driving after a fault, the breakdown provider needs to know about both the vehicle and the equipment fitted to it.
Would it help to talk through the journey?
Tell us where the person needs to go, what equipment is used now and where the awkward points occur. We may be able to suggest a sensible next step or the kind of specialist to contact.
Ask Easier Ways