The 10 Best Car Accessories For Disabled People

Dr. Handicap - car wheels

For disabled drivers and passengers, driving or riding in the car can sometimes be an uncomfortable and challenging experience. However, there are some items on the market that can make your car trips more manageable. Here’s a look at some of the best car accessories you can use in your vehicle!

  1. Swivel Cushions

These cushions fit right on your car seat (whether you’re driving or riding as a passenger). The cushion allows you to rotate your body in an easier way without straining. If you have flexibility or mobility issues, using this type of cushion can make getting out of the car much simpler. Plus, it’s padded, so it feels more comfortable to sit on than just a regular car seat.

  1. Handy Bars

Handy bars are also a great solution for disabled drivers who have trouble turning their body without experiencing strain in the torso or legs. The bar attaches to the car seat and provides a leverage point to help you get out of the seat. The steel construction makes it strong enough to put your full weight on it, which is great if you’re struggling with mobility. An added feature is that many handy bars come with a glass-breaking section and seatbelt cutter that can be used if you’re ever in an emergency.

  1. Transfer Boards

If you’re in a wheelchair, it can be a challenge to get from your car seat to your chair. Transfer boards fit around the arm of your wheelchair so that you can easily transfer yourself. They’re usually pretty lightweight, which makes them easy to carry and position. Some of the transfer boards have slightly different shapes, so explore the different options out there before purchasing to help you determine which one fits best with your body type and specific needs.

Dr Handicap - wheelchair

  1. Panoramic Mirrors

If you struggle from any kind of limited vision or have trouble turning to look over your shoulder, panoramic mirrors are a great find. They’re easy to install right over the rearview mirror you already have. Because the mirror is longer and has a convex shape, it gets rid of your blind spots, making all of the road behind you visible.

  1. Disabled Access Aids

A disabled access aid is a sign that you can attach to the window on either side of your car. The sign makes people aware of disabled drivers or passengers, with the hopes that they will park further away or make sure to leave enough space for you to enter or exit your car. This sign can be helpful just to make other drivers aware of your status and need for accommodations. There are also decal stickers you can place on your windows that will help achieve the same goal.

  1. Handicap Parking Permit Holders

Amazon actually sells a bunch of different protective holders for your handicap parking permit. The holders consist of plastic protective sleeves with a built-in hanger that you can hang from your rearview mirror when you’re parked and your vehicle is not in use. These handy holders can help you prevent wear and tear on your handicap parking permit, so you won’t need to worry about constantly getting replacement permits.

  1. Wheelchair Ramps

Although ramps can be somewhat on the expensive side, they can be essential if you use a wheelchair or scooter to get around. There are many different types, including ones that are lightweight and fold up, so they’re more portable and easier to use.

Dr Handicap - wheelchair user in car

  1. Steering Wheel Attachments

There are a variety of attachments for the steering wheel available to disabled drivers who have limited mobility in the arms. Steering wheel knobs can be easily clipped to the inner rim of the steering wheel (and just need to be tightened with a screw and nut). Then the driver can turn the steering wheel a full 360 degrees without having to take their hand away. This makes driving and parking your vehicle a lot less of a strain (and is safer, too!).

  1. Seat Belt Helpers

Whether you’re the driver or the passenger, sometimes just putting on your seat belt can be a struggle. Seat belt helpers can make a huge difference by limiting the need to twist and stretch to fasten the belt. You just clip the rubber seat belt helper onto the seat belt, grab the attached handle, and pull. If you have weakened hands or wrists, this accessory can be a lifesaver. It’s also helpful for people with stiffness or pain in their back, neck, shoulders, or hips.

  1. Backrests

Having discomfort in your back? Then you need a backrest that’s ergonomically designed to support your spine and that offers lumbar support as well. They often come with adjustable straps so you can make sure the backrest is the perfect fit for you. Many models also have shaped sides that can hold your overtaxed lateral muscles, giving you more support than regular lumbar cushions. You’ll likely find that you experience less discomfort and back pain and that you have improved posture after using this type of backrest in the car.

As a disabled driver or passenger, you need to make modifications to your vehicle or just need some of these accessories to outfit your car, you’ll be able to make car trips much easier, safer, and more enjoyable!

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