Push/right Angle Hand Controls
Unlike other Push Right/Angle hand controls for driving, the Sure Grip Push Right/Angles body doesnt pivot or move when the accelerator is applied. The pivot point for the Sure Grip control is on the left-hand side of the wheel, and only the handle pivots. Featherlite is also available a stationary main body has many benefits for the driver including:
- Increased leg room for getting in and out of the vehicle, as many installs allow brake rod to pass through the dash.
- Full acceleration without the control hitting the drivers lap.
- Greater two-handed contact with the steering wheel due to the shortened stroke of the handle.
What You Need To Know To Get A Grip On Car Hand Controls
Just because you’re disabled and don’t have complete use of your legs, it doesn’t mean you can’t operate a motor vehicle. To the contrary, car hand controls make it possible for you to drive a car on your own without the need for fully functioning legs or a self-driving vehicle. Depending on your needs, you can have car hand controls installed in your car on their own or in combination with certain foot controls or other driver aids.
Floor Mounted Hand Controls
Floor Mounted Hand Controls enable hand controlled acceleration and braking and can be installed into most automatic vehicles to the left of the steering wheel. The controls are very easy to use push forwards to brake and pull back to accelerate. When the vehicle is stopped the hill holder is simply operated by pressing the button, ensuring that the car stays immobile. Foot controls remain in place and can be used as normal. Floor mounted hand controls do not affect the adjustability of the vehicles steering column. The controls can also be supplied with indicators as well as other functions.
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Adaptive Hand Controls For Cars Trucks Vans Suvs & Rvs
At Superior Van and Mobility, we sell, service, and install virtually every type of adaptive hand-control device available today! Including and not limited to advanced electronic driving control devices from all the leading manufacturers MPD, Veigel, MPS, Sure-Grip, Wells-Enberg, EMC, Menox, and more.
SAFETY FIRST
Our team takes your safety seriously, and at Superior Van & Mobility, it is of the utmost importance! We will not sell any individual adaptive driving equipment or install any adaptive driving controls into a vehicle if the driver is not already endorsed or in training to operate a device with a Certified Driving Rehabilitation Specialist .
Are you looking to purchase your first set of hand controls? GREAT! Our mobility consultants are standing by to work with you and your CDRS on retrofitting your vehicle with the best & safest equipment that suits your needs. Dont yet have a CDRS? No problem, we can help with that too!
Q: Can Hand Controls Be Fitted To Any Car
A: Most hand controls are designed to universally fit all makes and models of cars. However, if a device doesnt fit your vehicle for some reason, it can be custom-made to the specifications of your car. RehabMart has a vendor, Johnson Hand Controls, that is willing to create custom car controls! Email with your request, and include the year/make/model of your car.
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Is It Legal To Drive A Car With Hand Controls
Yes. It is absolutely legal to drive a car using hand controls. With that said, its not as simple as getting the device installed and taking it out on the road.
As mentioned earlier, the disabled driver first needs to get a prescription to take the evaluation. Then, the specialist needs to determine that the use of hand controls is necessary and that the driver is capable of safely using them.
From there, behind-the-wheel training is required before disabled drivers are legally cleared to take control of a modified vehicle. A valid drivers license and a physicians referral is required before the driver can apply for this training, which can be found through the assistance of a local bureau of motor vehicles, local driving school, or a rehabilitation specialist.
Depending on the desired hand control, the drivers disability, and level of technological difficulty, the training can range from 10-40 hours. The training will include further evaluations as well as behind-the-wheel instruction. If the instructor determines that the disabled driver can handle the hand controls effectively in all driving scenarios, they can prescribe for the hand controls to be installed. Ongoing training during the transition may be necessary.
What To Know About Hand Controls For Disabled Drivers
For any number of reasons, a persons ability to safely control a vehicle can deteriorate or suddenly be extinguished. However, instead of simply surrendering their drivers license, theres an alternative to operating a vehicle without putting themselves or others in danger.
Many disabled drivers today use hand controls, which allow for them to use a combination of pull and push levers to effectively drive. No longer is it necessary for people with disabilities to surrender their independence when it comes to getting around.
Here well give you more detail regarding what hand controls are and answer some of the common questions surrounding this innovative tool for enabling disabled drivers.
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What Are Hand Controls For Disabled Drivers
Put simply, hand controls are a way for disabled drivers to operate a vehicle, tuned to each persons specific disabilities. The systems often rely on one of four basic designs push/pull, push/right angle, push/twist or push/rock based on the drivers abilities and needs.
The controls are installed by professionals to ensure their proper use, and every candidate is carefully evaluated to ensure theyre capable of maneuvering the controls safely. The orientation and configuration of the controls is customized to provide the disabled driver with the maximum amount of comfort and confidence.
Before hand controls can be installed, a doctors prescription approving the initial evaluation is required. From there, the driver will need to be evaluated by a handicap rehabilitation specialist, who will determine whether or not hand controls are the best approach. Keep in mind that the evaluation will also take into consideration the drivers capabilities on their weakest day as well as how their disabilities are progressing.
Hand Controls For Disabled Drivers Cost
Until recently people with disabilities could not benefit from real facilities for driving on public roads, but nowadays there are distributors who have some solutions available to eliminate this injustice. Specialized companies provide a range of products to the public that include manual controls for braking and acceleration, while also keeping the pedals in case another person wants to drive the vehicle. The customization options allow each customer to adjust these controls according to their own needs: changes to the accelerator pedal from the right foot to the left, extension for the seat of the high chair, and button on the steering wheel.
One of the most common devices among drivers with disabilities is hand control. The adapter consists of a brake/accelerator lever mounted to the right of the drivers seat. It is attached to a bracket that is mounted on the drivers seat rail. Two rods come out of the lever. One operates the accelerator pedal and the other the brake pedal. As long as the space allows, it can be installed in an SUV, car, minivan, or truck.
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Though, standard drivers are not allowed to install hand controls in their vehicle without a rehabilitation specialists prescription.
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Over Ring & Push Brake
The Electronic Over Ring and Push Brake is a system that provides complete acceleration control from the steering wheel. The accelerator is a ring that fits just inside and raised over the steering wheel. The ring can be depressed by the thumb or palm of the hand to activate the accelerator whilst holding the steering wheel in any position. The hand brake operates by way of a handle situated behind and to the side of the steering wheel.
Which Handicap Driving Controls Are Best For You
Are you looking for something that will help you drive?
If so, then you’re probably interested in handicap driving controls. These controls will aid you in navigating the road safely and legally.
But how do you know which driving controls are best for you?
That’s an excellent question. There are many different types of hand controls, but we’re here to help! Below, we’ll break down some of the best controls for disabled driving.
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Types Of Hand Controls:
- Push/rock style This control enables the driver to apply the accelerator and brakes by hand. When the upright handle is rocked rearward toward the user the accelerator is applied.
- Push/right angle style Allows the driver to push the handle upward toward the instrument panel to brake and downward at a right angle to accelerate. This method is operable for persons with limited finger dexterity.
- Push/pull style By pushing the lever forward on the handle the vehicles brakes will engage and when it is pulled backward the vehicle will accelerate. A three-post hand interface can be installed to allow the user to maintain contact with the handle giving the driver greater control. This operation model is good for persons with limited finger dexterity.
- Push/rotate style Push/twist hand controls are a good choice if either a large driver, a small car, or both, limit space. Economical use of space is achieved because the lever only needs to be moved to apply the brake. Throttle control is achieved by twisting the grip in the same manner as operating a motorcycle.
- Electronically assisted hand controls offers two types of controls. Primary controls manage gas, brakes and steering while the Secondary driving controls are designed to operate other vehicle functions.
Helpful Links
Home Of The Discreet/hidden Hand
Cowal have always designed their push/pull single lever hand controls to fit high to the steering column and in the majority of vehicles, the rods are hidden behind the dash. This unique feature enables full use of both steering wheel and knee air bags. You have FULL KICK DOWN with Cowal hand controls.
Each hand control is designed for the vehicle make, model and year, and are possibly the lightest & smoothest bespoke hand controls on the market today. A left hand operative hand control is available on request.
Our levers are curved which is both aesthetically pleasing but also more comfortable to operate, and is positioned closer to the steering wheel rim. This allows the driver to have a grip on the steering wheel rim during driving. Many control levers on the market are far away from the steering wheel rim , and on bumpy or uneven roads surfaces it is difficult to keep smooth control of the car. This can also cause fatigue of the right arm and fingers.
Lever Covers
A removable foam cover is standard but we also offer a smart leather option if prefered, and we also offer a choice of cream or grey colour finishing for the lever/main bracket to match the interior.
Knee Room
These features provide the driver with un-rivalled leg/knee room, and knee contact with the controls is eliminated. Thus no knee protection required!
No Cables!
Pedal Options
Due to the way the rods are fitted to the brake and accelerator pedals, the option of having them flipped-up is also available.
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How Do Hand Controls For Disabled Drivers Work#
Many disable drivers in front of me are extremely satisfied with any controls that are installed in any vehicle that is very simple to handle, such as a car for disabled drivers who have issues with their arms and legs. Because automatic wheelchairs contain controls, you can operate one without using your arms or legs.
Push / Pull Hand Controls
The Sure Grip Push/Pull hand control uses the same movement to apply the gas and brake as other Push/Pull controls however the pivot point for the Sure Grip control is on the left-hand side of the wheel close to the handle. This allows for a shorter stroke and greater leverage. In addition to the pivot point, the handles position is at a slight angle, an angle that makes a big difference to the driver. The benefits of Sure Grips unique Push/Pull hand controls for driving design include:
- Less strain on fingers and thumb.
- Flexible hand positions for lower fatigue and cramping while driving.
- Available in Right-Hand and Left-Hand and Featherlite.
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Standard Features To Look For In A New Passenger Vehicle
Before purchasing a new vehicle, always sit in it first to make sure you are comfortable.
Check to see that you can enter and exit the vehicle with ease. If possible, take it out for a test drive. How well does the car fit your body? To prevent air bag-related injury, you should keep 10 inches between your breast bone and the steering wheel, which contains the drivers side air bag. At the same time, youll need to be able to easily reach the pedals while maintaining a comfortable line of sight above the adjusted steering wheel. Also, make sure the vehicle provides you with good visibility in all directions front, rear, and sides. Your dealer can demonstrate the use of adaptive features, such as adjustable foot pedals and driver seats, which can help ensure a good person-vehicle fit. Check to see if the model you are considering purchasing has good crash test results and is resistant to rollover. Visit our Ratings section or call NHTSAs Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236 to obtain government crash test results and rollover ratings for specific makes and models.
When selecting a vehicle, look for and ask about available features designed to improve both the comfort and safety of drivers with disabilities. Some of these features are:
- High or extra-wide doors
- How long will it take to modify the vehicle?
- Can the equipment be transferred to a new vehicle in the future?
- Will existing safety features need to be modified to install the adaptive equipment?
Radial Hand Or Push/right Angle Controls
Radial or push/right angle hand controls provide an alternative solution for drivers who struggle to grip with their hands. Similar to push/pull controls, drivers will still control the brake by pushing a lever away from themselves. However, the accelerator is now operated at right angles to the brake by pushing the lever down towards the floor of the vehicle.
Because the lever can be pressed downwards using any part of the hand, no grip is required. These controls can also help to alleviate shoulder pain that can be experienced by some drivers following prolonged periods of driving with push/pull controls.
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Different Types Of Driving Controls
- People with limited use of their legs can get hand controls for functions like accelerators, brakes and clutches.
- Pedals can be lengthened for people of short stature or rearranged for people who only have use of one leg.
- People who only have use of one arm or with limited arm strength can steer with the help of spinner knobs. There are even driving control options available for people who have no use of their arms, but who have good lower body control. The driver steers with his or her left leg, using a rotating footplate, while they operate the brake and accelerator with their right.
- Controls that are not used while driving, such as automatic doors or ramps, can even be controlled via your laptop or smartphone.
- Voice command technology can be used to operate your vehicles secondary controls such as lights, windows and indicators.
Mobility Innovations Hand Controls
The Mobility Innovations hand controls are unmatched in design and execution. This unique combination of function and design result in a reliable mobility solution that is easy to use and integrates perfectly with your cars interior. Their mission is to continue to develop and discover new possibilities through innovative design and exceptional service.
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Why Do Cars Have Hand Controls And For Whom#
Many disabled drivers struggle to control an automobile adequately with their hands and legs because of their impairment. Both manual and electronic controls are employed. The inability of the disabled driver to pedal or steer is the major factor controlling the loss of hand or foot dexterity or strength. The second possibility for those disabled drivers is that both of their legs have been amputated totally.
Driving With Your New Controls
Now that you’ve got your vehicle outfitted for its new adventures, you’re probably ready to hit the road.
Before you do so, though, you might want to check your local requirements for driving with hand controls.
While all states allow hand controls, it is federally required that you complete training on how to use them. After all, you’ll want to be as safe on the road as you possibly can!
Each state’s requirements differ, so be sure to research yours! However, most people should expect to take lessons with a Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist.
If in doubt about exact requirements, you can contact your local DMV to ask.
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Are Electronic Driving Aids Right For Me
One-touch electronic driving aids have significantly enhanced the driving experience for those who are severely disabled. Quadriplegic people and people who can move no more than two extremities can safely operate a wheelchair van equipped with electronic driving aids. From steering controls and turn signals to gas, brakes and windows, essential vehicle operating features can be tailored to fit your needs.
Electronic driving aids can be any number of devices that are specifically designed to get you behind the wheel with full functionality. These devices utilize an interface thats integrated into the electronic system of the vehicle and offers two types of controls to help you operate the car. Primary controls govern movement and direction while the secondary controls are designed to operate all other vehicle functions.
At Ability Center, we offer a full line of electronic driving aids to get you back in the drivers seat. Our mobility technicians are specially-trained to work on a variety of mobility equipment, including hand controls and other mobility products.
If you are ready to find electronic hand controls for disabled drivers, reach out to your local Ability Center dealer. Our team of Mobility Specialists is available in all 15 of our locations across the country and ready to help you find the perfect driving aid for your vehicle.