Electronic accelerators.
If you have limited mobility in your legs or are unable to use hand controls, an electronic accelerator may help. This enables you to accelerate by pressing on a ring either above or below the steering wheel or by pulling on a trigger device. Electronic accelerators require less effort than push/pull hand controls and all come with a hand operated push brake.
Pedal modifications.
If you have difficulty reaching the pedals when driving, you could opt to have the pedals extended. Modifying the pedals of your car could bring them closer to your driving seat, allowing you to drive more comfortably while controlling the car with ease.
Mechanical hand controls.
If you find using standard pedals for braking or acceleration difficult, you may be better off using a hand control, such as a push/pull device. This popular adaptation allows you to control the speed of the car with your hand by pulling a lever (to accelerate) or pushing it (to brake). There are various hand controls available from different manufacturers, ranging from basic push/pull systems to electronic air or compression systems.
Remote control.
If you have limited movement in your upper body, you could benefit from remote control devices. These controls allow for basic car functions, such as the horn, windscreen wipers and lights, to be operated by a single control pad mounted on the steering wheel, making it safer and more comfortable to drive.
Steering aids.
If you have difficulty holding or turning a standard steering wheel, there are a number of solutions which may help. For example, steering wheel balls can be fitted to allow you to have more control when steering the car. You simply hold the ball, making sure your hand is comfortable, and use it to turn the steering wheel in the direction you need. If you’re having hand controls fitted, then it is often essential to have a steering wheel ball to enable you to steer the car with one hand while operating any hand controls with the other.
Who pays for the adaptations to be fitted?
If the adaptations are arranged at the start of a new agreement through the Motability Managed Adaptations Programme, the cost of fitting is included in the price quoted. Many of our most popular adaptations are supplied and fitted at no extra cost when arranged at the same time as ordering your car.
If you need to fit adaptations to your car during your lease, or you want to arrange the adaptations yourself, you must use a Motability Adaptations Partner and pay the cost of the adaptations directly to them.