Adaptive driving: what is it?

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Adaptive driving is the use of assistive technology to allow people with mobility disabilities to drive vehicles. Wheelchair users can often drive a vehicle with minimal modifications or adjustments, and accommodations are also available for people with dwarfism and other conditions that might make driving a standardized vehicle challenging. There are several companies around the world that specialize in offering adaptive driving services, including modifications to existing vehicles and reselling vehicles that have been modified for adaptive driving.

If someone has acquired a disability and wants to drive again or is learning to drive for the first time with a disability, it is advisable to see a driving rehabilitation specialist for an evaluation. These allied health professionals can assess people with disabilities to identify specific issues that will need to be addressed with vehicle modifications. If possible, the specialist will take the customer for a road test ride in a modified vehicle to give the customer a chance to see what adaptive driving is like, and driving lessons may also be offered.

Some common modifications to allow people with disabilities to drive include hand controls for people who cannot operate the pedals, special seats to make it easier to transfer from a wheelchair to a car and vice versa, and wheelchair lifts or ramps that allow for people to easily enter and exit vehicles. Lifts and ramps allow wheelchair users much more independence, as many do not need attendants to help them get in and out of their vehicles if a ramp or lift is available.

Other adaptive driving modifications can include voice controls for some of the systems in a car, lifts or locks for short drivers who can’t reach the pedals, and kits for people who need to rent cars. Portable hand controls can be installed in a rental car very easily and allow people who cannot operate the pedals to rent a standard vehicle for trips, instead of having to arrange for an adapted vehicle.

The modifications required for adaptive driving vary in cost and complexity. It is recommended that you use a mechanic or dealer experienced in installing such systems, rather than relying on a mechanic unfamiliar with them to install, test, and maintain them. Once modified, a retrofitted vehicle tends to retain resale value, since in the event the vehicle needs to be sold, someone who needs a retrofitted vehicle will likely be available to purchase. In some communities, charitable organizations pay for vehicle reconditioning so that people with disabilities who have limited budgets can access adapted vehicles.

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