Spinal Cord Injury
After a spinal cord injury has occurred, a person is no longer able to drive an automobile in the normal manner. However, there are several types of adaptive equipment and vehicle modifications that can allow an individual with a spinal cord injury to drive. Depending on the level of injury and functional ability, either a sedan or van may be an appropriate vehicle choice.
The following are considerations for selecting a vehicle:
Driving a sedan: When considering the use of a sedan, the individual must be able to do the following:
- Lock and Unlock the door
- Open and close the door
- Transfer to and from the wheelchair
- Store and retrieve the wheelchair (either independently or with a wheelchair loading device)
- Since characteristics and dimensions of vehicles vary, it is important that the individual performs these functions in the vehicle being considered prior to purchase. A driver rehabilitation specialist can provide recommendations for sedan selection.
Driving a van: If an individual is unable to drive a sedan, there are several options available for driving a van. Specialized modifications can allow a person to transfer to the driver seat or to drive from the wheelchair.
There are several levels of driving control technology to compensate for the loss of strength and/or range of motion. Some of these include:
- Reduced effort steering systems to compensate for reduced strength
- Servo brake and accelerator control to compensate for reduced range of motion and strength.
- Servo driving systems, allowing one hand operation of brake, accelerator and steering.
- Adaptive equipment and vehicle modifications for wheelchair access are available for some full-size and mini vans; however, all vans are not suitable for modifications. We can assist in making the correct van choice and can provide a comprehensive evaluation to determine a persons ability to drive.
If you or those that drive with you notice any of the above warning signs and need a driving evaluation, give us a call at 508-697-6006 and we can, help you with with knowledge about medical conditions, and help with a comprehensive evaluation and determine your ability to drive.
- Visual Perception
- Functional Ability
- Reaction Time
- Behind-the-wheel evaluation
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Our goal for the past 25+
years here at Automotive Innovations Bridgewater, MA, Massachusetts, is to
provide our customers with access to the best sales, service and repair for all
the leading wheelchair accessible mobility vehicles, hand controls and devices
that can offer you greater freedom and independence. We are your New England
adaptive mobility equipment dealer and offer a full line of VMI wheelchair
accessible vans, or Vantage
Mobility International products, and we have a team of Certified
Mobility Consultants who are always ready to help you learn about the benefits
and features of full sized handicap vans, new and used wheelchair
vehicles, Ricon lifts, adaptive mobility equipment, and more.
Automotive
Innovations
1000
Main St Bridgewater,
MA
508-697-6006
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