Adaptions
Speed and steering
Signalling and safety
Stowage
Seating and access
If you think you may benefit from an adaptation in your new car, Motability’s Managed Adaptations Programme offers a wide variety of options that could make your driving experience more comfortable. The Programme takes away the hassle of organising adaptations by managing the process for you from start to finish.
And in 2011, we're offering even more from Motability by making a wider range of adaptations even more affordable so that you can adapt your car to suit your needs.
If you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to think about your current driving experience - what areas have become more difficult or uncomfortable?
In some cases, mobility issues can be resolved by simply choosing the right car. Car designs are constantly evolving and features such as automatic transmission, automatic sliding doors, start button ignition and parking sensors, can all help make driving easier. The range of cars available to lease through Motability has never been wider or more affordable, and there may be one that’s already perfect for you. The best way to be sure is to take your time and consider all of the available options.
You will need to consider your car and the adaptation you would like at the same time to ensure that the combination of car and adaptation fit and work together. The majority of common adaptations can be made to fit most cars, although some may be more suitable than others.
The Forum of Mobility Centres (who can be contacted on 0800 559 3636 or by visiting their website) or a Motability accredited adaptation installer will be able to give you expert advice on choosing the right adaptation to suit your individual needs. Adaptation installers will also be able to recommend which car models may be suitable for installing your chosen adaptation. Your local car dealer does not have the expertise needed to advise you on the subject of adaptations, but they will work together with the adaptation installer to find the right combination for your needs.
To find a complete list, visit the accredited adaptation installers page or call our Customer Services team on 0845 456 4566.
Think about your day-to-day travel and how an adaptation may impact this. For example, if you are considering a wheelchair stowage system for the roof of your car, height restrictions may pose a problem at some car parks.
Once you have found the adaptation you need, your car dealer will be able to order both the car and the adaptations of your choice through the Motability Managed Adaptations Programme. This allows for you to get a great deal, and your new car will be delivered with the adaptations installed and ready to drive.
Push/Pull hand control
If you are unable to use the foot pedals in your car, a push and pull device will enable you to control the speed with your hand.
Operation: Push the lever forward to apply the brake and pull it backwards to apply the accelerator.
Radial accelerator
Similar to the push and pull control, the radial accelerator can help you control the speed of your car if you are unable to use the foot controls.
Operation: To accelerate, push downwards on the lever in a slight radial action, pushing the lever away from the body to brake.
Steering wheel ball If you have difficulty holding or turning a steering wheel or have the use of only one hand, having a steering wheel ball fitted means you will have more control when steering your car.
Operation: Simply hold the ball, making sure your hand is comfortable, and use it to turn the steering wheel in the direction you need.
Left foot accelerators
If you are unable to use your right leg, you could use a pedal transfer to switch the accelerator to the opposite side, enabling you to control the speed with your left foot.
Operation: For a twin flip accelerator, you pull down the pedal required and the other pedal flips up automatically. You can then use that pedal while the other is safely folded up out of the way. Floor mounted left foot accelerators operate with a guard to cover the pedal not in use.
Easy release hand brake If you have limited strength or flexibility in your arms an easy release handbrake device will reduce the effort needed to apply and release the hand brake.
Operation: This will depend on the type of device you choose. Some are operated by buttons and some by a small lever.
Infrared controls If you have limited movement in your upper body, infrared controls can bring everything to your fingertips. They make it easier to manage certain functions in your car, which make it safer or more comfortable to drive.
Operation: This is a simple keypad, which is often attached to the steering wheel. You simply press the button of the function you need.
Wheelchair stowage: electric boot hoist
If you cannot lift your wheelchair into your boot an electric hoist will solve this problem by easily taking the weight and manoeuvring into the boot of your car.
Operation: This will depend on the model but most are similar in operation. Once you have attached the wheelchair, use the electric keypad to lift and move the wheelchair into the boot.
Rooftop wheelchair stowage
If you need your boot to store other things such as luggage, equipment or even the dog, you might want to store your wheelchair in a rooftop box.
Operation: This will depend on the model but most are similar in operation. Once you have attached the wheelchair, a hand-held control operates the lifting, folding and storage of the wheelchair.
Swivel seat If you have limited body movement or stiff legs a swivel seat can help you get in and out of the car more easily. They can also increase driver and passenger comfort.
Operation: A remote control operates the chair as it turns out to face the driver or passenger, allowing plenty of space to sit down on the chair. Use the remote control to then move the chair round into the required position.
Whether you require a simple steering ball or full hand controls. We can help you with our extensive network of specialists to get the right products fitted to your new car ready for you to collect and enjoy. We can offer you a one stop shop for all your needs. For More Information Contact Our Motability Specialist Bernard Melling On 0121 504 2157 or Lloyd James in Kidderminster on 01562 752566
