Is there any adaptations for a car that I can drive?

SunflowerValley

I am a wheelchair user and can't move my legs, I also only have the use of one arm.

Does anybody know if there are adaptations for a car that cater my needs? And how much it would cost and if there is any financial support available to help?

poppy123456

Are you claiming a disability benefit such as PIP/ADP or DLA? If so and either of those include Enhanced/high rate mobility then you can join the Motability scheme and have adaptations done to your vehicle. There maybe a charge for some adaptions but there's also mobility grants that you can apply for.

With the Motability scheme you exchange your mobility payment for a vehicle. There's some information here.

https://www.motability.co.uk/how-it-works/

https://www.motability.co.uk/whats-available/adaptations/

How much it would be will depend on what adaptions you need.

If you're not claiming either of those benefits then I'm not aware of any grants that can help with the cost.

SunflowerValley

@poppy123456 Thank you for the information. I am claming PIP.

OverlyAnxious

Do you mind saying which arm? If it's the left arm, that'll be easier to adapt for than the right, as things like gear selection and parking brake are already on the left hand side in the UK.

It's definitely possible to have hand controls for throttle & brake pedals on the steering wheel. So I can't see any reason why adaptions couldn't be made for the use of just one arm. Though as Poppy says, it will be best to speak to Motability to see if they can provide the necessary adaptions.

SunflowerValley

@OverlyAnxious It is my left arm. I hope so. I will do.

I so hope I can adapt a vehicle because it's so hard when I ask my friend how her driving lessons are going when I've always wanted to drive when I was younger and never thought I would be able to.

Jimm_Scope

I did a little searching and came across this article that goes into the possibilities. I thought it was a little interesting so wanted to share it 😁 It does link to Motability which is the organisation Poppy linked who can help you get a car with adaptations.

SunflowerValley

@Jimm_Scope Thank you, I will look at it now.

SunflowerValley

I have just read the article, it was so interesting and also gives you a lot of useful information. Thank you for sharing it. @Jimm_Scope