Tag Archive for: Hand Controls

Exploring Alternatives to Wheelchair Accessible Vans

Scooter lift for trunk of vehicle

When it comes to transportation for individuals with mobility challenges, wheelchair accessible vans are often considered the go-to solution. However, they aren’t the only option. Depending on individual needs, budget, and lifestyle, several alternatives can provide independence and accessibility. Here are some practical options to consider:

1. Wheelchair Lifts

For those who already own a vehicle, installing a wheelchair lift can make it accessible without needing to purchase a fully converted van. These lifts can be mounted on the rear or side of a vehicle, making it easier for wheelchair users to enter and exit.

2. Mobility Scooters

Not everyone requires a full wheelchair accessible vehicle. A mobility scooter can be a great solution for getting around both indoors and outdoors, allowing for ease of movement without investing in a specialized van.

3. Adaptive Driving Controls

For individuals with disabilities who can still operate a vehicle, adaptive driving modifications such as hand controls, pedal extensions, and steering aids allow them to drive a standard car safely. This option provides greater flexibility without requiring a wheelchair van.

4. Public Transportation & Paratransit Services

Many cities now offer accessible buses and trains equipped with ramps and lifts. Additionally, paratransit services are available for those who cannot use standard public transit due to mobility limitations. These services provide door-to-door transportation and can be a cost-effective alternative.

5. Specialized Transportation Services

Some private and nonprofit organizations offer transportation services designed specifically for individuals with disabilities. These services often include trained drivers who assist passengers, ensuring safe and comfortable travel.

6. Community Support Programs

Many communities have volunteer-based programs that provide transportation for individuals with disabilities. These may include ride-sharing programs, volunteer drivers, or local nonprofit services offering accessible transport options.

7. Medical Transport Services

For those who require transportation for medical appointments or treatments, non-emergency medical transport services are available. These services are designed to accommodate wheelchairs and ensure safe travel to healthcare facilities.

8. Personal Assistance & Caregivers

Depending on individual needs, family members, friends, or hired caregivers can assist with transportation. Whether it’s driving to appointments, running errands, or helping with daily activities, personal support can be a flexible and practical solution.

9. Motorized Wheelchairs & Hitch-Mounted Carriers

Some motorized wheelchairs and scooters can be transported using hitch-mounted carriers attached to a standard vehicle. This allows individuals to bring their mobility aids along without needing a full wheelchair-accessible van.

10. Wheelchair Van Rentals

For those who only require an accessible vehicle occasionally, renting a wheelchair accessible van can be more cost-effective than purchasing one outright. Many companies offer short-term rentals for travel, medical visits, or special events.

Choosing the Right Transportation Solution

Selecting the best transportation option depends on individual mobility needs, budget, and available resources. Consulting with mobility specialists, healthcare providers, and disability advocates can provide valuable insights and help identify the most suitable solution.

At the end of the day, accessibility isn’t one-size-fits-all. By exploring different options, individuals with disabilities can find transportation solutions that best fit their lifestyle and needs.

Blink and You’d Miss Them! Installation Highlight: Sure Grip Featherlite Push/Rock with Brake Lock and A Spinner Knob

Our very own Julie Henry purchased a new 2023 Hyundai Tucson and got hand controls installed here at DRCE. Julie’s controls are a Sure Grip Featherlite right side push/rock with brake lock and a spinner knob.

 

Often, new clients worry that installing auto adaptive equipment into a vehicle will prevent traditional drivers from operating the vehicle and for that reason they hesitate to start the process of gaining independence through driving with auto adaptive equipment. However, most equipment doesn’t prevent traditional driving at all. Furthermore, as is the case with Julie’s vehicle and countless other DRCE installations, the controls don’t obscure OEM gas, brake and steering functions.

Driver’s side view.

Beneath the steering wheel.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Blink and you’d miss them!
Julie’s controls fit in her vehicle so seamlessly that, upon first glance, you hardly notice them

New clients also worry that auto adaptive equipment will alter the look of their vehicles. Julie’s installation is a perfect example of how seamlessly hand controls can fit in a vehicle with the right fit and team to install them.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Clients who have driven with auto adaptive equipment for a while, like Julie, often worry that their new vehicles won’t be compatible with the same controls that they are more comfortable with and enjoy using. However, even when some manufacturers don’t have an installation kit that’s compatible with a vehicle, DRCE is able to create custom fabrications that allow clients to keep using the equipment they love.

 

 

This installation was done with Julie’s specific needs in mind. In Julie’s case, she’s been driving with the Sure Grip Featherlite Push/Rock hand control, the one that she states she “immediately fell in love with,” since she first began driving in 2017. However, Sure Grip didn’t have brackets that were compatible for installing Julie’s favored control into her new 2023 Hyundai Tucson. DRCE’s solution to this was to fabricate custom brackets, ensuring that Julie got to keep the controls that best fit her needs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

All DRCE clients have unique wants and needs for their own equipment, and DRCE’s installation process reflects that. Whether you’re starting the process of getting equipment for the very first time, or if you’re already an equipment driver looking to get a new vehicle, contact us today to see how DRCE can help.