Just wondering if any Mums could pass on any tips regarding learning to drive? Im missing my left arm at the elbow and have been left rather confused with conflicting advice regarding adaptions ! Thank you! Debs.
MonthlyNeedsToTakeHerTime
Mon 11-Feb-13 23:22:40
Hi, can't advise re specific controls for missing limbs, my own experience is that in a wheelchair and chair car hoists etc. Have seen a college with a steering wheel ball and controls adapted on the wheel. I'm guessing an automatic would be easier as you could lean over with right hand and put it in drive then not need to change it until you park.
Even if you're not looking for a car on the scheme, the motability website has information about every adaption going. Some disabled centers let you try out there adapted car, some charge you for the privilege, but you can try out every adaption to see which you need and which ones you don't need.
Many thanks,having an introductory lesson with the b.s.m next Tuesday.
Hi Deb, I don't have use of my left arm following an accident, and the good news is that driving is one of the most easily adapted things. I drive an automatic with just a steering knob adaptation and the cars both have auto lights and wipers. I can hit the indicator stem up and down, but do ha
Once you have your own car, you might think about an infra red control pad that lets you do lots of functions from the steering wheel. Alas they are £700 each, so I don't have them
I have had 2 lessons now,an automatic car with a steering knob.Find it not too bad and BSM did mention control pads.Thank you for getting back to me.Will report back when I have passed!!
Great to hear you are getting on well Debs.
One thing you might want to do is that there is an exhibition called Naidex at the NEC where there are lots of car control companies, and they do let you try them out apparently. Its free, so might be worth a try.
But driving is one of the things I find really easy to do with the right car
Oh thanks for that.I must admit I have surprised myself with how easy I have found it so far.I did have doubts as to if I would feel in control of the car but so far so good.I have been online to look at the infra red boxes,certainly not cheap but BSM said most drivers with an arm disability opt for one now.
