Introduction

I recently attended the Pathways to Independence open day at Pashanger Golf Course. It was great to see so many industry professionals attend, and host stands at this event.

I was very lucky to speak to James Hinkins, who is a representative for Driving Mobility, Lead Driving Assessor DVSA ADI ADRT and Specialist Theory Support Tutor. James not only showed me some of the latest and greatest vehicle adaptations on the market and how they worked but also took me through some of the challenges and heartbreaks of his job role.

Hert Ability works closely with Motability and together they collaborate with individuals to see if they can safely drive a vehicle either without or with some adaptations. Firstly, the individual would have a driving assessment at a specialist mobility centre to evaluate their physical and cognitive ability. Based on the assessment, they may need specific vehicle adaptations. Here are a few that I saw and learnt about from talking to a representative from BAS at the open day.

Hand Controls

Thumb Touch Electronic Accelerator – If the individual has limited use in their upper body, then the thumb touch electronic accelerator could be the answer. This type of adaption offers full acceleration control, with either the left or right thumb and allows freedom to move your hand whilst driving.

Trigger/Twist Grip Accelerator – Offers a seamless, intuitive driving experience. Allowing the user to accelerate and brake using a single device. This is designed for ease of use and safety, ensuring precise control for drivers with restricted leg mobility.

Push/Pull Brake/Accelerator – the design of this aid allows for full movement of the steering wheel, allowing each driver to set the wheel at the best and safest driving position for them. A BAS push / pull brake / accelerator also allows the airbag to stay active and in place meaning that safety is not compromised. A lot of these specific aids on the market often require the airbag to be removed or disconnected or restricted to a predetermined fixed steering wheel position. Which does not suit every individual.

Foot Controls

Adapted vehicles offer various foot control options for drivers with limited leg or foot mobility, including the left-foot accelerator (a floor-mounted or twin-flip system), pedal extenders to reach the pedals, and pedal guards to prevent accidental operation. The “twin-flip” left-foot accelerator allows for easy switching between left-foot and right-foot use, making it ideal for drivers who share the vehicle with others.

Wheelchair Access and Aids

There are a lot of different wheelchair lift and aids which helps individuals put their wheelchairs into and take them out of their cars with ease. The ABI Loader was one of the most unique lifts on the market now. It not only lifts the wheelchair in and out of a vehicle, it also delivers it right to the driver’s door. This is for safety and convenience. It’s the only lift currently that has this ability.

Transfer Plates

A simple and easy to use device which can either be fitted and manually folded and tucked away when not in use or electronically fitted and stowed away using a remote. This aid is designed to make boarding a vehicle from a wheelchair comfortable, safe and easy.

The DVLA will need to be notified of any new medical conditions and adaptations to their vehicle. Medical clearance must be received by the DVLA to ensure the individual meets the legal and safety requirements for driving.

Talking to some instructors who deliver assessments and work alongside individuals delivering driving lessons in adapted cars to prepare them for an L test or just have the confidence and capabilities to drive an adapted vehicle, I can understand how this job can be so rewarding but can come with its challenges / barriers for both parties. After learning that the clientele can range between 16 years old and 96 years old, I can also see how diverse an Instructors day can potentially be.

The rewarding side is that the Instructor can see the individual through their journey and come out of the other side with true independence. No matter what age or the ailment.

Herts Ability help people stay independent and mobile. As part of the national Driving Mobility network and supported by the Department of Transport, they offer friendly, personalised driving and mobility assessments for all ages.

Herts Ability can help if:

  • You have a medical condition that may affect your driving
  • You need specialist vehicle adaptions
  • You’re an older driver unsure about continuing
  • You’re returning to driving after illness or injury
  • You’re finding it difficult to access or use a car

Are you thinking about helping others?

Volunteer with Herts or support their work – your time or a donation can help more older and disabled people stay mobile and independent. To find out more call: 01707 324581 or email driving@hertsability.org.uk

© Charli Howe
https://drive-up-training.co.uk/

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