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Driving with Disabilities

Driving with Disabilities

Driving is a need in our world today, and while public transportation is still proudly serving citizens across the nation, there are some people out there who can’t rely on the schedules of said public transport. Most people today are constantly on the move, from going to school then straight to work and with personal appointments in between, most people have to be able to get up and go on their time and on their call. So, how do we help our disabled citizens make it to their next meeting on time without having to solely point them toward the nearest bus station?

Well, it depends on the severity of the disability. Those who may be hard of hearing or require special educational needs can be given extra time allocation on their tests, while those who have limited movement or have been in an accident that has cost them a limb may be eligible for an adapted vehicle. While it may seem daunting, driving with a disability isn’t as hard as you may think; the key is to look for the proper equipment, gain your confidence and drive safely. This will ensure your safety and save you a call to your car accident lawyer⎯ here is how you or a loved one can begin to drive with a disability.

Driving with Vision or Hearing Impairments

When driving with a hearing or vision impairment, it’s important that you are on extra alert if you want to avoid an accident. Your health specialist and car accident lawyer may give you tips such as:

  • Keep your stereo volume low
  • Keep a safe following distance from other vehicles
  • Lower your speed when traffic begins to pick up
  • Wear hearing aids if you need them
  • Always wear your glasses/contacts if you need them

Driving with an impairment can be challenging for the first little bit, but after you practice and gain confidence, it will become second nature.

Driving with Paralysis and Other Physical Disabilities

For those who have been paralyzed, adapted vehicles are the best way to go. These vehicles offer various different hand controls that allow disabled drivers to get behind the wheel⎯ here are some of the most common forms of adapted vehicle controls:

Motorcycle Controls- This method allows for drivers to turn on a motorcycle like accelerator to accelerate the car and pull back on the handle to brake. 

Push-Pull Controls- This method works by allowing the driver to push on the handle to speed up and pull back on the handle to slow down and brake.

Right Angle Hand Controls- This method allows drivers to operate a vehicle by pushing down on the handle to accelerate and pull down to brake.

Adapted vehicles aren’t restricted to specific models, and any vehicle can be driven, it’s just a matter of preference and comfort. Talk to your local car accident lawyer or health professional about what the best option for you is.

Overall, driving with a disability isn’t any less safe than driving without out, it all depends on the driver’s actions on the road. If you have any further questions on this issue, contact a car accident lawyer at Robert J. DeBry and Associates, we would be happy to help answer any questions you may have about laws regarding driving with disabilities.

Sources:

https://www.safedrivingforlife.info/driving-disability

https://campaignforbetterhearing.ca/2016/06/how-does-hearing-loss-affect-my-driving-skills/

https://campaignforbetterhearing.ca/2016/06/how-does-hearing-loss-affect-my-driving-skills/

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