4 Car Conversion Tips For Disabled Drivers

Having a physical disability absolutely does not need to prevent you from enjoying the freedom and independence that driving your own vehicle allows. The ability to get around, go where you want when you want, and to live life on your own terms, is a right and not a luxury. And in 2021, disabled drivers have fewer limitations on their freedom than ever before!

A myriad of excellent vehicle modification options now exist for disabled drivers. The world of vehicle adaptations and modifications is rich in innovation. Modern technological progress has made it possible for a raft of extremely effective new disabled vehicle adaptations to come to market over the last decade.

There is a raft of options to choose from when adapting a vehicle for use by a disabled driver. Of course, everything depends on the specific needs and requirements of the driver. Choosing what vehicle adaptations are best for you can be exciting, but also daunting. Today we’ll discuss some helpful car conversion tips for disabled drivers.

Dr Handicap - hand controls
Image by Free-Photos on Pixabay: There are lots of options when it comes to converting a car for a disabled driver.

How Do You Make A Car Handicap Accessible?

How you go about making a car handicap accessible is dependent on what the requirements of the driver will be. There are a lot of different adaptations and modifications available for disabled drivers. It is important that you understand your own needs and that you are aware of all of the options available to you.

Some disabled drivers will need only very minimal modifications, such as installation of a steering wheel knob. Other drivers will need to install full hand controls or raise the ceiling or roof of their vehicle.

What Are Modified Cars For Disabled Drivers?

You can get a modified car for disabled drivers that is specially made in the factory for use by people with disabilities. Alternatively, you can modify your own vehicle by adding adaptations and modifications once the car has left the factory. Modifications can be added to older vehicles easily and effectively.

How Can I Make My Car Wheelchair-Accessible?

There are plenty of options for making your car wheelchair-accessible. The most popular adaptations for wheelchair users are:

  • Wheelchair lifts
  • Wheelchair ramps
  • Dropped floors
  • Raised ceilings
  • Seat modifications

How Do You Go About Converting A Car For A Disabled Driver?

Some disabled drivers like to buy a vehicle that has been specially manufactured for use by disabled people. However, most disabled drivers prefer to use their own vehicle and have conversions done by professionals or to do their conversions themselves. This is usually a cheaper option.

What Vehicle Conversions Are Available For Disabled Drivers?

The most common vehicle conversions for disabled drivers are:

  • Hand controls
  • Adaptive steering devices
  • Adaptive ignition controls
  • Automatic doors
  • Pedal or seat belt extenders
  • Left-foot accelerators
  • Seat modifications
  • Wheelchair lifts and ramps
  • Raised roof
  • Dropped floor
Dr Handicap - wheelchair
Image by stevepb on Pixabay: There are lots of options for making your car wheelchair-accessible.

Top Car Conversion Tips For Disabled Drivers

1. Keep An Open Mind

When planning to get a vehicle conversion, it helps to keep an open mind. Only a decade ago, the options in this space were much more limited than they are today. You may be surprised to discover how much amazing technology is now available that can make life much easier for disabled drivers.

2. Put Safety First

Always have safety at the front of your mind when deciding what adaptations to choose for your vehicle. Ultimately, the most important element of a car conversion is that it is enjoyable, easy, and safe to use.

3. Ask The Experts

Often the best people to ask when choosing car conversions as a disabled driver are disabled driving instructors or disabled driving schools. Professionals in the disabled driving space are experts and will be up to date on the newest technology, so avail of their expertise. They will be happy to advise.

4. Shop Around

Don’t just jump in and buy the first thing that gets you excited. There are big differences in price between different garages, dealerships, and manufacturers. Do your bank balance a favor and shop around when buying disabled driver adaptations for your vehicle.

How Do You Apply For A Disabled Parking Permit?

If you’re a disabled driver and don’t already have a disabled parking permit, now’s the time to get one. The best way to apply for a disabled parking permit is to arrange a telemedicine consultation with a licensed physician through the Dr. Handicap online clinic. Dr. Handicap will arrange a video chat with a licensed physician in your state who will examine you and verify your disability.

Once your suitability for a disabled parking permit has been confirmed, the physician will certify the forms needed for you to acquire access to your state’s handicap parking program. It is a quick and simple procedure.

Featured image by Dan Gold on Unsplash

Alcohol & Driving: How To Make Sure You’re On The Right Side Of The Law In Every State

As a driver, it is your responsibility to make smart and safe decisions every time you get behind the wheel. You follow the rules of the road such as the speed limit, parking restrictions, and so on, so what about when it comes to alcohol and driving? There are many laws in place that you should be following anytime you imbibe alcohol (or other substances that might affect your driving abilities). Here’s a rundown of what you need to know to stay safe.

Is it illegal to drive with any alcohol in your system?

In most states, you are permitted to drive with alcohol in your system if it’s at a very low level. However, if you are acting impaired or are making poor decisions behind the wheel, you can still be penalized even if you’re under the legal limit.

Many states have Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) laws that help law enforcement and prosecutors determine whether you were unable to operate a vehicle safely because of alcohol intake. This especially comes into play if you’re involved in an accident where someone has been injured or killed.

Is drunk driving illegal in all 50 states?

At this time, it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher in all 50 states. In order to avoid fines or jail time, you must have a lower BAC when you’re tested (either in the field or at a police station). At a 0.08% level, drivers are so impaired that they’re 11 times more likely to have a single-vehicle car accident than drivers with no alcohol in their system.

Dr Handicap - driving car
Image by Hannah Sutherland on Unsplash: Drunk driving laws by state can vary, so look up regulations in your home state.

Alcohol and driving: rules to know

Here’s what you should know anytime you’re going to be drinking and driving.

The nationwide legal limit

As mentioned above, the legal limit is a BAC of 0.08% or higher on a Breathalyzer or a blood test. Typically, a single drink is either one shot of liquor, a five-ounce glass of wine, or one beer (which all contain about the same amount of alcohol). A 120-pound woman can reach a 0.08% after only two drinks and a 180-pound man can reach it after only four drinks. Keep this in mind when you decide to drink before driving – you can become impaired fairly quickly.

Your specific state’s legal limit

Aside from the nationwide legal limit, there can be drunk driving laws that vary by state. These different laws can impose more regulations regarding impaired drivers. For example, Arizona has the standard 0.08% BAC limit, but drivers can also be charged with Extreme DUIs for having a BAC over 0.15% or Super Extreme for having a BAC over 0.20%. These come with much higher penalties.

Your best bet is to do some research on the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website for your particular state. Becoming educated can help ensure that you’re never breaking the law when you get behind the wheel.

Driving restrictions when traveling to other states

If you’re going to be traveling or driving in a state other than your own, it can be helpful to look up their specific laws and regulations as well. This can help you understand what is legally permitted in that particular state before you travel there.

The consequences in your state

The consequences of drinking and driving can vary greatly depending on the state you’re driving in. Some states have more stringent laws than others. Let’s look at California, for example: a person convicted of a DUI here faces imprisonment in a county jail for anywhere from 96 hours to six months and has to pay a fine of $390–$1,000. Their license can be suspended for six months. A second DUI is even more serious, with jail for 90 days to one year, a similar fine, and a license suspension for two years. Each DUI after that gets increasingly severe punishments.

If you’ve been in an accident where someone was hurt (or even killed), the consequences are much more dire. California also has strict penalties for drivers who drive drunk with minors in the car. It’s vital to make sure that you fully understand what could happen before you get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol.

Dr Handicap - breathalyzer
Image by miguelrd68 on Pixabay: If you’re suspected of driving under the influence, police can do Breathalyzer tests on the scene.

How to tell your own limit

Alcohol can have varying effects on a person because of different metabolisms, body chemistry, weight, etc., so you should become very familiar with what your own limits are. You might feel impaired after just one drink; it’s quite possible for your reaction times to slow after this amount. Therefore, you should understand your own body and make appropriate choices to ensure the safety of yourself and everyone else on the road.

You don’t have to get behind the wheel after you’ve had a drink. Remember that getting a ride from Uber or Lyft or calling a cab can be a much smarter way to go if you’ve been drinking. Always make the safest decision so that you’re not endangering yourself or others. Know your own limits and research the laws in your state, and you’ll be able to stay safe and on the right side of the law!

Featured image by Kelsey Chance on Unsplash

Can I Drive After Getting A Vaccine?

The COVID-19 virus has impacted pretty much everything about our way of living, so it makes sense that the vaccine is so important to moving our country towards a return to normalcy. But because there hasn’t been a mass vaccination effort of this magnitude in recent years, it seems most people are left with many questions about the vaccine. You might be wondering, “How do I get a vaccine appointment?” or “Can I drive after getting a vaccine?” Here’s a breakdown of some common questions about the vaccination process.

What is the COVID-19 vaccine?

The coronavirus vaccine, currently being distributed by two drug companies called Pfizer and Moderna, consists of two shots that you need either three or four weeks apart (depending on the manufacturer). The shots are administered in your arm, just like a flu shot, by a medical professional or pharmacy worker.

The vaccine was developed to help give people immunity to the coronavirus, and it went through multiple clinical trials to ensure its safety. It’s believed that the vaccine is effective in up to 90–95% of people. That means that only a small percentage of individuals who receive the vaccine will end up contracting the virus in the future. The vaccine also helps to make it so that if people do contract the virus, they won’t end up being as severely affected by it.

Dr Handicap - COVID vaccine
Image by CDC on Unsplash: Getting a COVID-19 vaccine is one way to protect yourself against contracting the virus.

Who can get a vaccine?

The vaccine manufacturers have done successful clinical trials on adults age 18 and up, so anyone who’s not a child or younger teenager can benefit from the current vaccine options. There are still trials being conducted to see whether the vaccine is safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Right now, most states have begun to vaccinate their frontline healthcare workers and their elderly population (typically over 65 years of age). It will likely be several more months before the general population will have access to the vaccine.

Where can you get a vaccine?

At this time, the rollout of the vaccine to US citizens depends greatly on the specific state you live in. Some states, such as California, have implemented drive-through vaccinations at locations with large parking lots (such as Dodger Stadium) so that people can get in and out quickly.

Head to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website to get directions on what sites to head in order to get an appointment for a vaccine if you’re in one of the eligible categories. Those sites can be divided by state or even by county; they’ll inform you what locations near you are distributing the vaccine and how you can sign up for an appointment.

Can the COVID-19 vaccine cause side effects?

There are a few things to keep in mind if you’re wondering what to expect after the COVID vaccine. Firstly, it is extremely rare for anyone to have a serious reaction to the vaccine (especially if you’ve never experienced negative reactions to other vaccines in the past). In a few very rare cases, people have gone into anaphylactic shock and needed to get a dose of medicine from an EpiPen and visit a hospital.

For most people, side effects are milder and can consist of a slight fever, headaches, and chills. Some people will experience pain or swelling at the injection site. Typically, the pain is similar to what you feel after getting a flu shot. In most cases, these symptoms will dissipate within 24 hours.

Is it safe to drive after getting a vaccine?

For most people, driving after getting the vaccine won’t be a problem. At most vaccine sites, they’ll have you wait around 15 minutes before leaving to make sure you’re not having any side effects from the shot. However, if you’ve had allergic reactions to prior vaccines, you might want to have someone else drive you, just to be on the safe side.

Dr Handicap - mask
Image by Anastasiia Chepinska on Unsplash: It will be important for people to continue to wear masks in public for the near future.

What can I do to stay safe from COVID before and after getting a vaccine?

Before and after getting your vaccine, it’s essential that you wear a mask when out in public and keep social distancing (at least six feet away from people outside your household). It will take a large percentage of the population to be vaccinated before there’s any kind of herd immunity, so we’ll all definitely need to continue being cautious until this happens.

Find out more about getting vaccinated by going to the CDC website or your specific state’s health department website. Don’t forget to report any negative side effects you might experience to your doctor, and then keep wearing a mask for the near future, even if you’ve been vaccinated.

Featured image by Markus Spiske on Unsplash

4 Things Family Members Of Disabled Drivers Should Know

Disabled adults face many challenges, but driving doesn’t have to be one of them. In fact, there are some ways that driving can be made much easier for those with disabilities. As a family member of someone who has a disability, you should understand what laws apply to disabled drivers, the education driving with disability requires, and how some vehicles may need to be modified. Here are all the things family members of disabled drivers should know.

1. Laws Surrounding Driving With Disability

Many federal laws oversee the ability of a person with a disability to drive on the roads. When discussing these driving laws, disabled usually refers to someone who has lost the use of one or more limbs and has to have adjustments made to a car in order to operate it.

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, disabled Americans are protected from being discriminated against both in the workplace and while accessing public services. A state’s Department of Motor Vehicles cannot deny a driver’s license to someone based solely on their disability status under the law. The law also states that disabled parking spaces must be available in parking lots, and must be wide enough to accommodate accessible vehicles with a ramp for wheelchairs.

Dr Handicap - parking lot
Image by Brydon McCluskey on Unsplash: Driving with a disability can be complicated. Make sure both you and the driver know the disabled driving laws.

Every state has its own laws surrounding disabled drivers, but some things are common across all states, such as the requirement of disabled drivers to disclose their disability to the DMV. The state may issue a restricted driver’s license based on the disability status of the person (mobility issues, limited vision, a hearing disability, etc.). The ways vehicles must be modified for disabilities differ from state to state, so if you have questions, make sure to contact your local DMV for more information.

2. Driver’s Education For Those With Disabilities

The driver’s education required for those with disabilities to obtain a driver’s license are much the same as any other driver’s education course, except that they may need specialized training based on any specific controls installed on a vehicle to help accommodate for their disability.

As with any other driver, a disabled driver must be at least 16, though driver’s education classes can begin at age 15. A theory test and a practical road test must be passed in order to obtain a driver’s license.

3. Requirements For Vehicles

Vehicle modifications for disabled drivers are based on the particular disability in question. Vehicles should include a feature that enables easy shifting and automatic transmission. It’s also a requirement for a disabled driver’s vehicle to have power steering, windows, seats, and locks.

Some disabled drivers may need a lift to access their vehicle and hand grips to transfer. If a driver is unable to use accelerator and brake pedals, their vehicles must have hand controls. However, you’ll want to check with your state to see what modifications are legal, since spinner knobs that make turning a wheel easier for a person with a disability have been outlawed in some states.

Dr Handicap - parking sign
Image by AbsolutVision on Unsplash: A driving license for physically handicapped people and vehicle modifications for disabled drivers can help individuals get around on their own.

4. Disabled Parking Permits

Another important item that may be required for a disabled driver is a disabled parking permit. The DMVs in each state issue these specialized parking permits, which may be given on a permanent or short-term basis. You need to check with your state to find out what the qualifying conditions are for a disabled parking permit; what forms must be filled out by the disabled driver and their doctor to secure one; and the cost, if any, of getting one.

A disabled parking permit will allow the driver to park in handicap-accessible spaces in parking garages and parking lots. These spaces are closer to the main entrance and have extra room for putting down a ramp for wheelchair access. Disabled parking may also allow a disabled driver to park on a street without paying the meter or to ignore parking with time limits. However, these privileges differ from state to state and even city to city, so you’ll need to make sure you and your disabled family member familiarize yourselves with state and local laws surrounding disabled parking.

Featured image by Josh Appel on Unsplash

What Is The Best Car For A Wheelchair User?

Wheelchairs help many people to remain independent – but a big part of that independence comes from accessing transportation that can accommodate your wheelchair. That’s why it’s so important for wheelchair users to find a vehicle that you not only like, but that’s accessible too.

The good news is that there are many cars on the market today that are accessible to those in wheelchairs. Here are some of the best cars for wheelchair users that you might want to consider.

The Benefits Of Each Car Type For Wheelchair Users

If you’ve already started your new car search, you know that there are many choices out there. With all of the things wheelchair users have to take into consideration, there are definitely benefits to each car type on the market today. Here’s a breakdown:

Minivans

These are a great all-around vehicle for wheelchair users since they have so much room. You can find them at a variety of price points, and they provide quick access and have high safety ratings. You can get a minivan with either a side or rear entry, too, which is a definite bonus for ease of use when out and about with your wheelchair. A minivan is one of the best cars for wheelchair transfers, too.

Full-size vans

Most full-size vans will come with a lift instead of a ramp. These systems can be a lot more expensive than other types of cars, but they have a lot of room, which some people need not only to accommodate their wheelchair but their family as well.

SUVs

This type of car is very popular since it is great for off-road driving and driving in inclement weather. An SUV can be more expensive than other options, but does tend to be much roomier than a minivan, with a lot of cargo space.

Cars

Cars are normally the most affordable option but offer the least amount of extra space. However, they’re low to the ground, which is good for transferring. They’re easy to handle, too, which makes them a great option for new drivers.

Trucks

Trucks are powerful and great for towing, but may not be the best option for wheelchair users since they’re high off the ground. The wheelchair, once stored in the back, can also be exposed to the elements.

Dr Handicap - disabled drivers
Image by Why Kei on Unsplash: Wondering what cars can take a wheelchair? Let’s investigate.

What is the best car for wheelchairs?

Let’s take a look at some specific models of the best wheelchair-accessible vehicles on the market right now.

Ford C-Max

This car has plenty of room for both passengers and drivers. It features high, wide doors to give wheelchair users plenty of space to transfer and a lot of room in the back for mobility scooters or wheelchairs.

The C-Max can also be adapted for wheelchair users by adding seat lifts, wheelchair hoists, pedals, and hand controls. Plus, it’s relatively affordable, which is always a bonus!

Jeep Grand Cherokee

If you like to have a little oomph in your engine, you can’t go wrong with the Jeep Grand Cherokee. This small SUV can be fitted with power seats, tie-downs, running boards, and lifts for wheelchair users thanks to Chrysler’s Automobility Program. Conversions under this program qualify the owner for a reimbursement for up to $1,000, which is a nice bonus.

Subaru Forester

This small SUV is one of the most popular cars on the market, for both wheelchair users and non-wheelchair users. But for those in a wheelchair in particular, this SUV offers a lot of safety and comfort. It comes standard with all-wheel drive and automatic transmission, and is one of the most dependable SUVs you can find year after year.

Every Subaru can undergo modifications from the factory to make it more accessible, such as foot or hand control and pedal extensions. The hatchback also makes it easy to store your wheelchair.

Hyundai Sonata

This is a simple but dependable car for wheelchair users. It’s a midsize car that is reliable and comes with a great warranty. It’s easy to access since it’s low to the ground, and comes with features such as a smart system so you’ll never have to ask for direction again.

Dr Handicap - Toyota
Image by Dima Fedorov on Unsplash: What is the best car for wheelchairs? That comes down to your personal needs as a wheelchair user.

Honda Odyssey

If you’re in the market for a minivan, the Odyssey is one of the most reliable you can find. It gets great fuel economy and is easy to handle. Even though it’s a minivan, the floors are low for ease of entry and it can be modified easily for wheelchair users.

Kia Soul

If you’re looking for a car that’s a little quirky, then the boxy Kia Soul fits the bill. It looks compact from the outside but is actually quite roomy on the inside, with high ceilings and low floors. It also has wide doors for easy entry and exit. Plus, the low price makes it affordable for almost anyone.

If you’re looking for a new car, this list should get you off to a good start to finding the best car for a wheelchair user!

Featured image by Marianne Bos on Unsplash