Ricability Is a Charity That Researches and Publishes Information on Products and Services for Older and Disabled People

rica bili ty Choos ing a car

A guide for older and disabled people 2011 The information contained in this guide is correct at the time of going to print (June 2011). It will be reviewed every two years. See our website for any changes since printing.

Ricability is a charity that researches and publishes information on products and services for older and disabled people

Unit G03 The Wenlock 50–52 Wharf Road London N1 7EU Tel: 020 7427 2460 Fax: 020 7427 2468 Textphone: 020 7427 2469 Email: [email protected] www.ricability.org.uk Choosing a c ar A guide for older and disabled people Choosing a car can be a complicated Contents decision. Manufacturers’ brochures and test reports in magazines will Setting off 4 help you weigh up and compare such things as performance, What to look for 7 running costs and reliability. Wheelchair users 18 However, if you are having Checklist 21 difficulty getting in and out or Finance 24 driving a car, there are other things you may need to consider. Many Suppliers 27 cars have features that will make The legal side 28 your life easier, and there are simple Useful organisations 30 gadgets and more complex adaptations that can help with Find a car – Car measurement database almost any driving problem. Visit our website to search for the easiest Here you will find what to look cars to get in and out of. There are out for. The guide also describes factsheets like this one on over 700 cars. some of the simpler equipment that can make driving the car easier.

There is a section on financing a car if you have a disability and details !" ## ## of where to go for simpler adaptations, information and help.

If you need something more complicated there are other guides in this series which can help. See $ * !! % ! ! && !! " ! & ! ! !! the back of this booklet or visit our % * *) *- website for more information. '( )' '( )- See our Mobility address list for % * (' + ) -( '* *, the names and addresses of & ' + * ,, , -) + , specialist suppliers.

Se tting off Basic steps to finding and adapting a car to suit you

STEP 1 Ask some WILL YOU TRAVEL WITH SOMEONE? basic questions If not, will you need any equipment to help you get in and out, or to help with WILL YOU DRIVE THE CAR? anything you may carry? If not, you only have to think about getting yourself and any equipment you use into WHEELCHAIR USERS the car, and your comfort once inside. If Think carefully about how you will carry you are going to be the driver, you need to your wheelchair in any car you are think about how you are going to drive considering. How will you transfer from safely and comfortably, and whether you the wheelchair to the car? Will the will need specialist equipment to help you. wheelchair fit in the boot? Will you need equipment to help you? WILL YOU NEED SPECIALIST If transferring is difficult, or if you prefer EQUIPMENT? to travel in your wheelchair, some cars and There’s a wide range of specialist controls vans can be adapted to make this possible. from simple attachments such as wider mirrors and steering knobs to more RICABILITY GUIDES elaborate controls that make it possible for If you need more specialist assistance, almost anyone to drive as long as they more details on these questions can be meet DVLA requirements – see page 28. found in our other guides Car controls , You can also get specialist equipment to Getting in and out of a car , Getting a help with getting in and out, from swivel wheelchair into a car and Wheelchair cushions and transfer boards to powered accessible vehicles (see page 35). lifting swivelling seats and hoists. This You can also get more information from guide gives some information about a Mobility Centre (see pages 30–33). simpler equipment. Plan and compromise HOW MUCH SPACE WILL YOU NEED? n Think about what you may need You may need space for passengers, in the future as well as about luggage or equipment like wheelchairs or what suits you now. scooters. If you have bulky mobility n Prepare to compromise as you equipment, you may need more room for may not find everything you want shopping trips or holidays. in one car.

4 STEP 2 Collect Some of the magazine websites allow you to compare the equipment available information on different cars. There is a lot to think about when choosing For advice, news and reviews: a vehicle, and it is unlikely that you will find www.autocar.co.uk all the information you need in one place. For all this plus car comparisons and Comfort, reliability, performance financial information: (including fuel consumption and CO 2 www.autoexpress.co.uk , emissions), price and running costs are www.topgear.com and things everybody needs to consider. www.whatcar.com . Motoring magazines, the internet, The Top Gear website also has a car newspaper reviews, radio and television chooser to guide you to suitable cars. programmes and manufacturers’ n Which? carries out in-depth car tests and brochures should help you piece together surveys car owners about satisfaction the information you need. and reliability. Members can see the information on their website Particularly helpful are: (www.which.co.uk/cars ), and there is n Motoring magazines. There’s a wide a quarterly magazine, available in range of magazines with advice, news newsagents and supermarkets. and car reviews. Most reviews tell you n There is a wealth of information on the about equipment which is particularly internet. Try these sites for safety testing useful for older and disabled motorists information, prices, reviews, features such as automatic transmission, air and specifications: conditioning, power steering, remote www.carbuyer.co.uk central locking, electric windows and www.euroncap.com mirrors and electric seat adjustment. www.glass.co.uk What Car? lists all new cars every www.newcarnet.co.uk month, with prices. www.parkers.co.uk www.theaa.com

5 SETTING OFF

After this, there are the things n Motability also has a great deal of advice you need to think about if you and information, including price and have a disability. accessibility, on its website. And they n Our website www.ricability.org.uk publish a quarterly magazine, Lifestyle, has a guide to choosing a car which with news, views and reviews – free if includes detailed measurements of you have a Motability vehicle, otherwise over 700 current and recent models. £10 a year. Send your name, address and Draw up a short list of cars that are cheque (payable to The Big Agency), to easy to get in and out of – for example, Lifestyle Subscriptions, The Big Agency, with the widest door or lowest sill, or 22 Stephenson Way, London NW1 2HD. where the seat is the same height as your wheelchair. Or search cars by STEP 3 Try out any boot size – if you need to stow a wheelchair or other equipment. car you are seriously n Mobility Centres (see pages 30–33) and considering organisations of disabled motorists (see page 33) give independent advice. Try getting in and out of it several times. n Disabled Motoring UK (see page 33) has If you use any aids for getting in and out, monthly magazine, with news, features or special cushions, try it with them. If you and advice and reviews of cars tested by are going to be driving, sit in the driver’s disabled drivers. seat and try all the controls. If you have n Motability (see pages 24–25) has a list of equipment to carry try getting that in and accredited car dealers. These dealers will out of the car. If someone else usually know what features in their range of cars helps you, get them to try the car with are helpful for older and disabled people. you. If you have a disability, some dealers They all have specialist information and will bring a demonstration car to you if facilities for disabled people. you ask.

Tip

n Most people will simply choose a car at a dealer. However, if you need specialist or made-to- measure adaptations you will have to discuss this with a specialist adaptation company before choosing your car – to make sure they will fit. n If you are using the Motability scheme (see pages 24–25), they will manage the process of adapting your car if you ask.

6 What to look for Car designs to look out for, useful extras and adaptations you can add

This section tells you what features to look Getting in and out for when choosing a car, including features that are particularly helpful to disabled Look for: people. We also give a rundown of the n Easy to open doors: extra equipment which can help you use a Most door handles are likely to be the type car safely and comfortably. you just pull on – no buttons or levers Prices of adaptations are those typically involved. charged and should be used as a guide only. If you can, shop around and talk to n Wide doors, that open wide: several companies as prices vary. If your legs are stiff you will need room to Adaptation companies are specialists swing them in with the least possible and can often come up with a solution bending. Two and three-door cars usually even when no standard product meets have wider doors. your needs. Some Mobility Centres (see Remember that wider doors need more pages 30–33) will give you the opportunity space to open into (this can be a problem to see equipment, try it out and get more in garages) and you have to reach further information and advice. to close them. Use the information services described Watch out for bulky door pockets that on pages 5 and 6 to find out about cars get in the way. It may be possible to which have the features you want. Our remove them – talk to the dealer. Mobility address list and website give details of adapters and specialist suppliers. n High doors and low, narrow sills: You can find more information about The higher the door the less you have to adaptations and specialist equipment in duck to get in. our other motoring guides (see page 35). It’s easier to lift your legs over shallower and narrower sills. Avoid having a low seat and a high sill.

n Space around the seat: The more space between the seat and the door the better. Look for seats which slide back a greater distance if you need a lot of room. Sit in the seat and check you can reach the lever, and use it, easily.

7 Features found on some cars: adaptation company (see page 27). n Remote central locking is very common on a wide range of cars. On n Leg lifters help you lift your legs over some cars the remote locking closes the sill. General aids suppliers sell the windows automatically. simple leg lifters for around £10. A simple DIY solution is to loop a stiff n Keyless entry systems are now more length of webbing over your foot. Some common. You carry a small card or key- people use a hooked walking stick or a fob with you and as you approach the plastic bag (you step into it and use the car, it unlocks the doors automatically. handles to pull your leg up). You can see one of these on page 12.

n Some MPVs and other cars have sliding rear doors which may make it easier to get in and out of the back seats. This feature is becoming more common, so look out for more cars with it.

New Ford B-Max – due out in 2012 A simple leg lifter made of stiffened fabric

Adaptations which may help: n A car dealer or adaptation company may n If the car key is too small, a key holder be able to make the door open further by gives more leverage – about £5 from modifying the hinges. The cost depends general aids suppliers (see page 27). on the vehicle. You may need to attach a length of cord to help you close the door or use a walking stick to pull the door closed.

n It may be possible to make the seat go back further by moving the runners backwards. This may not be worth Keyholder doing on a 4 or 5-door car, because it may leave the seat too far behind the n If your car doesn’t have central locking, door pillar. Ask your car dealer or you can sometimes have it fitted by an adaptation company about this.

8 WHAT TO LOOK FOR n If you cannot find a convenient you don’t have to drop down too far or handhold to help with getting in and struggle to get up again. Everyone is out, additional handles can be fitted. If different but seats which are between 50 your car does not have a grab handle and 55cm (20–22”) from the ground suit above the door, it may have predrilled most people, including wheelchair users. mounting points. If so, a car dealer Try out the seat from both road and kerb should be able to fit handles. If not, or level. Use our online car measurement if you need handles in other places, guide to choose cars by seat height. adaptation companies can do the job. Features found on some cars: n The Car Caddie (available from general n Seats which adjust up and down and aids suppliers) and the Handybar back and forwards will help you get in (available from general aids suppliers and out and find a comfortable position. and motoring suppliers) both provide Available in most manufacturers’ ranges, additional hand holds to help with at least for the driver’s seat. Electrically getting in and out. adjustable seats are fairly easy to find on more expensive cars.

Car Caddie Handybar Images courtesy of Nottingham Rehab Supplies

Seats and seating This Mercedes has powered adjustment for multiple seat settings Look for: n The right seat: n Seats with manually adjustable Needs to be comfortable and supportive, lumbar support are available on especially if you are driving. You need to be some cars; electric on fewer. This can able to reach the controls comfortably and help reduce back pain. without tiring, even on long journeys. n Some seats have memory settings. A n The right height: single button adjusts the seat to your Low seats mean more bending of your preferred settings. Found on a wide ankles, knees and hips. Higher seats mean range of more expensive cars.

9 n Most cars now have height adjustable turn a full 180º, which makes it easier seat belts, so there is more chance to transfer from a wheelchair . Some of a comfortable and safe fit. al so lift up to help you to your feet. If you have stiff legs make sure the n Heated seats are available on an swivel seat slides back far enough for increasing number of cars, as are you to get in and check that you will ventilated seats that allow air to have enough headroom as you pass circulate and reduce stickiness. through the doorway. From adaptation companies, from around £980; more Adaptations which may help: (£3,500 and up) for models which Help with getting in and out swivel 180º. n An existing car seat can be raised (expect to pay around £150), or adapted so that its height is electronically adjustable (from £900 from adaptation companies – see page 27).

n If getting into a seat and turning to face forward is difficult, a swivelling cushion may help. Make sure it is firmly secured to the car seat. £20 – £80 from general aids suppliers (see page 27).

Belek car seat system, from Steering Developments (see page 27)

n A lift can be fitted between the door and the car seat. You slide on, swing round to face out and the lift gently rises until you are in a near standing position or until you stop it. There are various types. With some you have to remove the lifting arm before you can shut the door. From about £1,100.

This swivelling cushion works like Read more a turntable n For more on accessories and n You can also fit a swivelling seat . Some adaptations to help with getting turn 90º to face out of the car, some in and out see our guide Getting in slide out over the sill and some models and out of a car (see page 35).

10 WHAT TO LOOK FOR

For comfort and pain relief for lumbar support to shaped inserts n Nearly two thirds of adults in the UK which fit on to the car seat. Some are have had experience of back pain. The designed to level out the angle of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy has seat squab (the part you sit on). From a leaflet Take the pain out of driving £10 –£70+. From adaptation companies, which has information about choosing general aids suppliers and specialists – a car seat and driving posture. You can under orthopaedic goods in a classified download it from www.csp.org.uk phone book. Make sure any cushions (search for the title under publications). are well secured while you are driving. email [email protected] or phone 020 7306 6666. n Car seats can be replaced with seats from specialist manufacturers. There is a n There is a large range of cushions and wide range available. Replacement seats backrests designed to be used in cars. can move up, down, back and forwards These range from simple pads and rolls under power. The variety of shapes available means you are likely to find one that gives good support. For example, some seats have adjustable lumbar support and some are longer to give your legs more support. Some have suspension to reduce vibration. From adaptation companies, £40 0 – £2,000+.

This Recaro seat has electrically adjustable position, tilt and lumbar Cushions and inserts make car seats support. Climate control and other more comfortable options are possible

11 n Many cars have adjustable steering Controls wheels. Some adjust back and forwards (‘reach’) as well as up and down (‘rake’). Look for: They give you a greater chance of finding n Automatic transmission, power steering a comfortable driving position. and brakes all save effort and are less tiring. If the brakes or steering are too n A few cars have electronic push button heavy, an adaptation company may be or foot pedal operated parking brakes. able to lighten them. (Unfortunately this This can make starting and stopping is impossible on an increasing number of easier (see picture opposite). new cars – if possible you should check this before buying a new car.) n Some cars have push button ignition, to make starting easier. n A comfortable driving position, with all the controls in easy reach. n A few cars combine this with a smart card, which automatically unlocks the Features found on some cars: doors and allows the car to start. n Most new cars have variable power steering, which gives you more control n The range of automatic controls at slower speeds such as when you are available and the range of cars that have parking. them are growing. Look for rain sensitive wipers, headlights which come on when n If you prefer to drive a manual, many it gets dark and headlights which stay on models have clutchless gear sticks – you for a while after you get out. just push the stick to change up and down and the clutch engages n Many cars come with electric windows, automatically. Some cars do not have a at least in the front, and some with conventional gear stick, you push a electric door/wing mirrors. button on the steering wheel to change gear. The clutch is automatic.

n Cruise control – available on more and more cars these days – can be set to keep the car at a constant speed and means you can rest your right foot. Also look out for variable cruise control , which keeps a set distance between you and the vehicle in front. This key card for a Renault Scenic works n Garages and adaptation companies can as a remote, using the buttons, and also fit cruise control to most cars unlocks the doors if you're carrying it (from £500). when you touch the door handle

12 WHAT TO LOOK FOR

With the key card in your pocket, you can start the vehicle using the push button

Gearshift Easy-release from Alfred Bekker – £68 unfitted

n The steering wheel can get in the way of your knees when you get in and out. You After you start the engine the handbrake can replace it with one that flips up out is automatically released as you pull of the way or with a smaller wheel that away. You can override this using an easy- can be removed while you get in. Smaller to-use switch on the dashboard wheels need more strength to turn.

Adaptations which may help: n Mechanical attachments can be fitted to All provided by specialist adaptation make the handbrake easier to pull on companies (see page 27). (from £70). Handbrakes can be replaced n If you prefer manual gears, or if you want with an electronic push button system to keep an old manual car you like, you (from £700)mp can fit a clutch which is operated by a button on the gear stick (from around £2,000).

Gear stick mounted Duck clutch, from Elap Mobility – £1,995 fitted Easy release lever attached to handbrake n In an automatic, you can fit a device to n If the ignition is hard to reach, you can make the release mechanism on the gear have it moved, or fit a push button selector easier to use (£70 –£150). ignition (around £300–£400).

13 n You can have manual windows n A Sat Nav can help with navigating. converted to electric ones for around Included or available as an option on £300 per window. many cars (from around £500), or you can buy it separately (from £50). n Extensions can be fitted to indicator stalks, so you can work the indicators n PIE (www.thepieguide.com) sell the from the other side of the steering BBNav, a Sat Nav with built-in data on wheel. This is a simple, and disabled parking spaces (£200). You comparatively cheap solution can also buy the data for TomTom or – from £75. Garmin Sat Navs for £30.

Simple extension rod – allows you to use BBNav from PIE the indicators with your right hand n Anti-dazzle mechanisms on the rear view mirrors of some cars automatically dim the reflection Accessories of bright lights behind you.

Look for: n Parking distance sensors sound when Any gadget which helps with the things you are a certain distance from you find difficult. whatever is behind – available on a wide range of cars. Some use a TV Features found on some cars: camera to show you what’s behind. n Air conditioning or climate control. Sometimes you can have separate n You can also fit sensors or cameras to temperature zones in the back and front any car yourself. of the car, or on different sides – ‘dual- zone’ climate control. Some people may n Park assist is the latest development. It also benefit from a pollen filter. helps with parallel parking. Ultrasound sensors detect the size of the parking n Audio equipment can be voice activated space, and if it is suitable you pull up on some luxury cars. Remote controls on alongside the car in front, select reverse the steering wheel are more common. gear and drive slowly into the space –

14 WHAT TO LOOK FOR

park assist does the steering; you just n The Easifuel (£2.99) is a small plastic accelerate and brake. gadget which holds open the trigger on petrol pumps – particularly useful if you have limited dexterity or the use of only one hand. To try before you buy, call 020 8302 8858.

n If you get caught short, male and female portable urinals are easy to use and discreet – around £ 4–£16 from general aids suppliers.

Park assist n Service Call (see page 34) is a service that lets you call for n Roof rails, found on many estates and help at participating shops, some MPVs run along the length of the petrol stations and others. car. As well as being used to stow items including wheelchairs on the roof, they can be useful to hang on to when getting in or out, particularly for wheelchair users. Seat belts n Heads up displays, available on some Audi, BMW, Citro ën, Lexus, Peugeot, n Some people find seat belts Saab and Toyota models, project speed uncomfortable. They can be and other information onto the modified, but never have a seat windscreen so you can read them belt modified by an unqualified without taking your eyes off the road. person. Your adaption company should be able ensure any Useful products: modification is both safe and legal. n Panoramic mirrors fit over or replace the n There are kits and accessories that rear view mirror and show a much wider you can buy to adapt seat belts. view, which saves turning your head. These must come with safety and Around £20 from motor accessory shops legal information and full and clear and adaptation manufacturers. Note instructions. Some may be suitable that panoramic mirrors make objects only for some vehicles. look further away than they are. n You must notify your insurance company if you are using adapted n Stick on ‘blind spot’ mirrors (£2+) seat belts. extend what you can see in wing mirrors. n Belts should fit well across the They stick on to the mirror itself or pelvis and avoid the softer the housing. abdomen.

15 Loading and n Several vehicles have a ‘ski flap’ in the back seat so you can carry long narrow stowing items without folding the seat. Look for: n A flat boot sills means no ledge to lift things over. Usually found on estate cars and MPVs.

Ski flap – BMW 740

n Split rear seats let you juggle passenger and storage space. Some rear seats slide The Subaru Outback has a flat boot sill back and forward to give more space, and some can be removed. n Many MPVs have seats which can be moved, taken out or folded, depending on the model. This, and their size, makes loading bulky items easier.

Features found on some cars: n If you are loading large items, you will find it easier if the rear seats can be folded entirely flat.

Flexible rear seats in a Toyota Verso

CItro ën C5 estate – seats folded flat

n Look for easy to use catches or levers for folding the rear seats.

16 WHAT TO LOOK FOR n With some cars you can open the whole tailgate or just a hatch in the top. This allows to load items on top of what you already have in the boot.

Shelves in boot – Honda CR-V

Ford Kuga – hatch in tailgate n On some cars the tailgate is split so that each half opens independently – the bottom half folds down and the top half folds up. Cargo net – Audi A6

Luggage separator – Skoda Superb

Peugeot 3008 – split tailgate n In most cars you can unlock the boot from inside. In a few you can even open it (and This may be helpful when loading some sometimes close it) electronically. loads, but you may find the lower half just gets in the way. n Shelves in the boot, cargo nets and other luggage separators help stop things moving around – useful on shopping trips if you have bulky equipment. Electronic boot control – Volvo V70

17 Wheelchair users Here is some advice on getting in and out of a car for wheelchair users. You may be transferring from your chair into the car seat or loading the chair in the boot and walking round to the front. You may be able to do it without help, with or without specialist lifting equipment.

TRANSFERRING Adaptacar supply two folding transfer Transfer accessories boards (one manual, one powered), which If you don’t have enough arm strength and are bolted to the car and are folded and dexterity to swing yourself in and out of stowed when not in use. They also lower to the car you may be able to slide sideways help you transfer to and from a wheelchair. from your wheelchair using a transfer board. These bridge the gap between your wheelchair and the car seat. They can be used with a swivel seat. Transfer boards are usually varnished or polished to make them easier to slide on. Some are angled to help with awkward gaps. A more expensive type has a sliding section which you sit on. From general aids suppliers (see page 27), £15 –£75 or £250+ for the sliding seat board. Foldable sliding plate from Adaptacar – £536; powered version £1,774, fitted

Belts and discs If someone helps you get in and out of a car, a belt which fits around your waist can help with the manoeuvering. A turning disc on which you put your feet may make it easier for your assistant to swivel you round. From general aids suppliers, belts £1 5–£100 and discs £2 0–£120.

Hoists to lift you across You transfer to a sling and move across in it to the car seat. With most you will need help to do this. If you are tall and your Using a transfer board can help you slide legs are not very supple, you may find it from a wheelchair onto the car seat difficult to get them into the car.

18 Stowing your wheelchair need a wide ramp for three-wheeled Some people, who use light weight scooters. You need a car with a low sill, wheelchairs, transfer into the car seat and otherwise you may have to fit a ramp on then stow the wheelchair behind them or the inside too. From general aids suppliers on the front passenger seat themselves. and adaptation companies; £25 0–£800. Alternatively, you can get automatic stowage systems which transfer a manual Other solutions or light electric wheelchair into the back of Two similar products – the L.I.T.E. Bag from the car or onto the roo f and stow it safely. Biston and Backsaver from Mangar (see page 27) – are designed to help you load a folded wheelchair into the boot by hand. They reduce the effort you need, protect the car from scratching and secure the wheelchair when you drive off.

Rooftop spider – from Adaptacar, about £3,600 fitted

LOADING THE WHEELCHAIR Backsaver (left) – £102 + £7.50 delivery IN THE BOOT and L.I.T.E. Bag (right) – £65 Wheelchair hoists If you (or your assistant) cannot lift your Racks and trailers wheelchair into the car, a hoist can be You can carry a wheelchair on a specially fitted in the boot. The chair needs to be designed rack which fits on to a towing secured once inside. If you have a scooter, ball. You can also carry a large wheelchair you may have to dismantle it. or scooter in a flat trailer. The Chairack and specially designed Scooter Trailer Ramps are both available from G Bernard Elliott Ramps are useful for heavier powered (see page 27) . chairs and those which can’t easily be dismantled. You may need to fold the back Read more of the wheelchair seat forward to get it in the car. An empty powered wheelchair or n For more on this see our other scooter can be guided up the ramp under guides Getting in and out of a car , its own power – check you can control it Getting a wheelchair into a car and and it can manage the slope. Most ramps Wheelchair accessible vehicles can be folded and stowed in the boot. You (see page 35).

19 WHEELCHAIR USERS

STAYING IN YOUR WAVs either have a ramp or a lift. All lifts WHEELCHAIR are powered but some ramps are deployed Wheelchair systems by hand (you will need help). If you use a Our guide Getting a wheelchair into ramp, a winch can be fitted to help get you a car gives details of specially designed in (only suitable if someone helps you, as wheelchair systems which fit into a car you won’t be able to attach the winch to become the front seat. These can help yourself). All drive from WAVs are designed preserve your independence and your to be used without help so the doors open dignity, but they may not be suitable if you and the ramp unfolds at a touch of a need specialist supportive seating. You also button. need someone to help you stow the wheeled base once you are in the car.

I Can from Sirus (see page 27) – from £33,295

Side-entry WAVs can be easier for on- Carony manual wheelchair system paired street parking (because you don't need so with Turny Evo swivelling seat – from much room behind, and you don't have to Autoadapt UK (see page 27), around get your wheelchair into the road), but you £5,600 for this combination may not be able to use them in all car parks. The Wav-Evolution (from Wilson Wheelchair accessible vehicles Healy Conversions – see page 27) has a (WAVs) specially adapted front door that lets you Specialist firms convert MPVs and vans so directly into the front passenger's space. that you can get in and travel in your wheelchair. If you travel as a passenger you Learn more usually sit behind the front row of seats, but some designs allow you to sit beside n For more information on WAVs, the driver. WAVs are fiited with tie-downs see our guide Wheelchair to secure the wheelchair. accessible vehicles (see page 35). Drive from WAVs are designed so that n If you want an assessment to find you drive from your wheelchair. They can out if a WAV would suit you and be fitted with a wide range of specialist what equipment you may need, controls. Drive from WAVs have automatic contact a Mobility Centre (see tie-down systems. pages 30-33).

20 Chec klist You should always try any car you are considering for long enough to be sure of your choice. These pages outline some of the things you might need to consider. It would be a tall order to check out all of them, so pick out those most important to you

Tick the box for each feature that is suitable for you – the more ticks the better. Take this list with you when you’re looking at vehicles to buy. Getting in and out of the car Most people find it easier to get into a front seat, so we have assumed that this is what you will do.

Unlocking the door n Is central remote locking available? n Are keys or remote controls easy Space to use? Consider the best way of getting on to the seat. Door handles and catches n Check that seats can be pushed back n Are they comfortable? far enough to bring your legs in. If n Can you operate them easily? you need to, can you recline the seat back easily? The door n Check that the door pocket won’t get n Is the door light enough to open in the way. easily? n Is there enough space to stow any n Will it stay open on a hill or in a mobility equipment you use? high wind? n If you use any special techniques to n Does it open far enough? get into the car, try these out to see n Can you reach it from the seat if it how they work. opens very wide?

21 In the car

The seat Sit in the seat for a good while to get an idea of comfort. Remember that the distance between the seat and the ground will be different depending on how high Handholds and supports the kerb is. Look for the best places to hold on to as n Is the seat the right height? you get in. Try varying your technique – n Can its height be adjusted? you may find that small changes make a n Check its shape (such as its wings) surprisingly big difference. Make sure that doesn’t cause problems for you. anything you want to grasp or lean on will n Is it hard enough? Soft edges can be take your weight. Ask the car dealer if any dangerous if you need to sit on them fitted handholds are strong enough. Check when getting in or out. for sharp edges. n Do the controls move easily and stop where you want them to? Would any of these handholds n Will you still be able to use the work for you? controls once any equipment you n Parts of the door, including the carry with you is in the car? window sill (some sills are more conveniently shaped than others). Seat belts n Parts of the car body – around the You have to turn and stretch at the same door space, including the roof gutter time to reach the seat belt. Adjust the seat if the car has one. and the mounting point, if it is adjustable. n Interior handles or arm-rests. Then try fastening and releasing the seat n Parts of the seat or head restraint – belt: check that the upholstery is firm n Can you easily turn and reach for it? and durable. n Can you pull the belt across your n An open sun-roof. body? Some have a strong spring. n The steering wheel. n Can you locate the socket and plug n The dashboard. the belt into it? n Any grab handle above the door. n Does the belt sit comfortably, particularly across your lower neck Door sills and shoulders? n Is the sill low enough to the ground? n Can you easily release the seat belt n Is the sill low enough to the floor? buckle? n Check you don’t catch your heel or n Check it does not retract too quickly. toe, or callipers (if you wear them) on it.

22 CHECKLIST

Stowing a folding wheelchair The boot If you usually stow your wheelchair after you get in, try this on the new car to see Take any equipment, or anything else you how it works. usually need to carry in the car, with you If you stow it behind you: and try getting it in and out of the boot. n Can you move the seat forward and n Does it fit in easily? backwards easily? n Is the boot the right height for you? If n Is there enough clearance behind the it’s too high you might struggle to seat? get the equipment up to it; if it’s too If you stow it on the front seat: low, you might have to bend your n Can you move the seat back easily? back too much. n Is there enough clearance between n Is the boot sill low enough? you and the steering wheel? n Can you close the boot afterwards? n Can you reach the passenger seat n Can you get the equipment out belt to secure your wheelchair? again easily? n Can you lift in and out of the boot Adjusting the seat without leaning on the bumper? If you are likely to make frequent This can make your clothes dirty. adjustments, look closely at the controls. Generally levers should be large and thick (easier to grip) and should not be too stiff. Special features Round knobs should not have smooth edges (harder to turn). The larger they are, If you need any special features you can the better. write them in here. Check that the car you Drivers often hold on to the steering are looking at has them, and that you wheel to give some leverage when pulling know how to use them. the seat forward. This is not possible on the n ______passenger side, so try grasping any corresponding feature on the dashboard. n ______Avoid a combination of a seat which is stiff to move and a completely smooth n ______dashboard, particularly if you are unable to brace your feet against the floor. n ______n Can you reach the seat controls? n Can you operate them comfortably? n ______n Are seat belt anchorage points out of your way? n Does the seat move easily when you are sitting in it? n Does the backrest move easily and stop where you want it to?

23 Finance

MOTABILITY The Motability Contract Hire scheme will also cover, or contribute to, the cost of adaptations. Motability has a list of adaptations available, with costs If you receive either the Higher Rate attached. They operate a Managed Mobility Component of the Disability Adaptations Programme which can make Living Allowance or the War Pensioner’s the process both easier and cheaper. You Mobility Supplement you are eligible for can only make use of this programme the Motability Scheme. Your allowance when you are ordering your new car. goes towards the cost of a car, scooter or If you want to fit your own adaptations powered wheelchair of your choice. during your lease, or fit something not available through the programme, you Leasing through Motability will have to fund this yourself. Motability You use your mobility allowance to lease a administer a number of funds (see Grants new car from Motability for three years below) which may be able to help. Any (five years for a Wheelchair Accessible adaptations must be supplied and fitted Vehicle). Maintenance and servicing costs, by a Motability Adaptations Partner. insurance for two drivers (a third driver can be added for a fee) and RAC Grants breakdown assistance are included. There Motability administer a number of is a mileage allowance of 60,000 miles government funds as well as having their over a three year lease (additional miles own Charitable Fund. are charged at 5p per mile). If you are considering the Motability You can choose a model from all the Scheme you can apply for a grant for main manufacturers. If you choose one things like adaptations, advance that is more expensive than is covered by payments on more expensive vehicles the mobility allowance, you make an and driving lessons (for people under advance payment (the amount varies, 25). You have to provide details of your depending on the car and on which circumstances, which will be checked. allowance you get). Motability can only help towards the Motability offers over 200 cars which least expensive solution that meets your require no advance payment. There are needs. They will assess your needs and also cars available which will leave you make suitable recommendations with something left over. Contact Motability Operations for more information about this or any other aspect of the Motability Scheme.

24 Motability Operations n The Family Fund helps families with City Gate House severely disabled children aged 17 and 22 Southwark Bridge Road under, whose household income is less London SE1 9HB than £28,000 a year. They may be able Tel: 0845 456 4566 to contribute towards the cost of Textphone: 0845 675 0009 adapting a car or with driving lessons. www.motability.co.uk They do not usually help with the cost of buying a car. OTHER SOURCES OF FINANCE The Family Fund Charities Unit 4, Alpha Court Some charities give grants to individuals. Monks Cross Drive n Your local library should be able to help Huntingdon you find sources, such as the Round York YO32 9WN Table, Rotary or Lions Club and other Tel: 0845 130 4542 local charities. Fax: 01904 652 625 Textphone: 01904 658 085 n Try your appropriate disability group Email: [email protected] such as Scope, the MS Society or the www.familyfund.org.uk Muscular Dystrophy Campaign, who may know of sources of help. Statutory sources n Social services – may be worth trying, n If you are aged 50 or over, especially if you do not get Disability Charity Search provide a free service to Living Allowance or if you have already help you find a grant-giving charity: used your mobility component to lease or buy a vehicle. Charity Search Freepost (BS 6610) n Access to Work – if you are in work or Avonmouth about to start work, you may be able to Bristol BS11 9TW get help from the Access to Work Tel: 0117 982 4060 scheme. They may cover the cost of (9:30 to 2:30 Mon–Thurs) adaptations to a vehicle if this is the only Email: [email protected] or most cost effective way for you to get www.charitysearch.org.uk to work. Cases are assessed on an individual basis. Contact your local Jobcentre Plus or visit www.direct.gov.uk/disabledpeople.

25 FINANCE

VAT The car must: You do not pay VAT on products designed n have been designed or substantially and sold specifically for disabled people. and permanently adapted for the This means all adaptations, installation, person who normally uses a wheelchair repair and maintenance are zero rated. or stretcher n carry no more than 12 people What kind of adaptations count? n be for domestic or personal use. n Those which make it possible for you to get in and out of the vehicle, such Vehicles owned and run by businesses do as a swivel seat not qualify. However you can use a n Those which make it possible for you to qualifying adapted vehicle for work if it is drive, such as hand controls for primary incidental to its main private use. driving controls and infra red systems for VAT relief applies only to new cars, so if secondary controls. Note that standard you are buying a car with the intention of extras such as automatic transmission having controls fitted, it may be worth would not be enough to qualify your while to consider buying a new car n Those which enable a wheelchair to rather than a secondhand one as you will be carried in the vehicle, such as a not have to pay VAT on the car. hoist. Trailers, roof or rear racks would not count as they are not vehicle More information: VAT Notice 701/7 VAT adaptations. relief for people with disabilities from HMRC national advice service Adaptations have to be permanent – Tel: 0845 010 9000 which means in practice that they have www.hmrc.gov.uk. to be welded or bolted on. Repair and maintenance to the vehicle is also zero rated. The supplier of the vehicle has Important to be satisfied that you qualify, and you will have to sign a form declaring your n You must buy and adapt the disability. vehicle at the same time – you cannot get a VAT refund for Wheelchair and stretcher users adaptations made later. Additionally, if you use a wheelchair or n Alterations made to a car before stretcher you may not have to pay VAT on it is registered have to have type the price of the car or for its repair or approval . In practice this means maintenance. that it is only legal to fit these adaptations after registration. To qualify you must: You have to register the car, have n be a wheelchair user – temporary it adapted and then pay for it. users do not count and nor do scooter Talk to the firm who is adapting users or your car – they will be able to n need to be carried in a stretcher. make appropriate arrangements.

26 Suppliers SPECIALIST SUPPLIERS BUYING SECOND HAND MENTIONED IN THIS GUIDE You can buy adapted vehicles and equipment There are many more speciaist second hand from some converters, and from suppliers, adapters and converters. See these sources. If you have very specialist our Mobility address list for their details. needs, you may not be able to find a suitable Adaptacar secondhand vehicle. Tel: 01769 572785 Disability Equipment Register www.adaptacar.co.uk www.disabilityequipment.org.uk Alfred Bekker Disability Now (see page 33) Tel: 0800 334 5126 Tel: 0844 249 0228 www.alfredbekker.com www.disabilitynow.org.uk Autoadapt UK Disabled Living Foundation Tel: 0121 333 5170 (see page 33) www.autoadapt.co.uk Tel: 0845 130 9177 Biston www.dlf.org.uk Tel: 07710 275795 www.livingmadeeasy.org.uk www.biston.co.uk Disabled Gear Elap Mobility www.disabledgear.com Tel: 01254 871599 Justmobility www.elap.co.uk www.justmobility.co.uk G Bernard Elliott Tel: 01733 333023 GENERAL AIDS SUPPLIERS www.gbelliott.co.uk Less specialised equipment is available from Mangar local mobility shops (look in the phone book) Tel: 0800 280 0485 or from mail order companies. www.mangarinternational.co.uk Able Living PIE (Public Information Exchange) 0871 22 05232 www.ableliving.com Tel: 0844 847 0875 Ability Answers www.thepieguide.com 01792 412700 www.abilityanswers.com Sirus Automotive British Red Cross Shop Tel: 0121 505 7777 0844 8930089 www.redcross.org.uk/shop www.sirusautomotive.co.uk Hearing and Mobility Steering Developments 0844 8881338 www.hearingandmobility.co.uk Tel: 01442 212918 Homecraft Rolyan www.steeringdevelopments.co.uk 0844 4124330 www.homecraft-rolyan.com Wilson Healy Conversions Nottingham Rehab Supplies Tel: 01704 227979 0845 1204522 www.nrs-uk.co.uk www.wh-conversions.co.uk

27 The legal side

DRIVING LICENCE You may be sent a questionnaire and will Mobility Centres or disabled drivers’ be asked to give permission for the organisations will be able to help you find Medical Advisor to contact your doctor a driving instructor who specialises in or specialist. If your driving licence is for teaching disabled drivers. They use cars automatic vehicles only, you must make with adapted controls or will teach you sure the clutch pedal is removed if you in your own vehicle. have adapted a manual gearbox. Further Drivers of adapted cars take the same information from www.dvla.gov.uk or in test as everyone else. If you drive an What you need to know about driving adapted vehicle and you have advised licences from a post office. the Driving and Vehicle Licensing Agency, details will appear in code form on your VEHICLE EXCISE DUTY licence. The adaptations recorded are: (ROAD TAX) modified transmission, modified clutch, You don’t have to pay Road Tax if you modified braking and acceleration get the Higher Rate Mobility Component systems, modified control layouts, of the Disability Living Allowance or the modified steering, modified rear view War Pensioner’s Mobility Supplement. mirrors and modified driving seats. You If you are not the driver you have to can only drive cars with similar provide the name of whoever will drive equipment. for you. The vehicle must be registered There’s no top age limit to driving. in your or your nominee’s name. It must be You have to renew your licence at 70 used only by you or for your benefit – such and every three years after that. A form as to do your shopping. Anyone can drive it will be sent to you by the DVLA. as long as they are insured. You must tell them of any disability To claim, get an exemption certificate when applying for a licence for the first from the Disability Living Allowance Unit time. You must also tell them if you have of the Department for Work and Pensions a new medical condition or one which has (08457 123 456) or the Veterans Agency got worse since passing your driving test or (0800 169 2277). You can then get your since your last licence was issued. free tax disc at post offices which issue Conditions you have to tell them about road tax, or by post. If the dealer is include fits or blackouts, seizures, diabetes, registering your new vehicle for you, you angina attacks which are provoked by will need to let them have your certificate. driving, memory problems, stroke, brain Renewals can be made online. injury, brain surgery, pacemaker, difficulty Motability Contract Hire vehicles don’t in using your arms or legs and any visual need a certificate – the tax disc will be condition which affects both eyes. arranged by Motability.

28 INSURANCE BLUE BADGE SCHEME Under the Disability Discrimination Act, insurers are not allowed to refuse disabled drivers insurance or charge extra without justifying evidence. Premiums must be based on a reasonable assessment of risk. Insurers will take account of any DVLA restrictions on your licence, but this is not The Blue Badge Scheme offers parking in itself justification for a higher premium. concessions for disabled people with However, you may have to pay more: severe walking difficulties who need to park close to their destinations. The n while you are adjusting to a new scheme also applies to registered blind disability if there is evidence that this people, people with severe upper limb will increase the risk disabilities in both arms who regularly n to cover any extra cost of repairing drive a vehicle and children under three an adapted vehicle. with specific medical conditions. You can use designated disabled parking As with all insurance, shop around to get the bays in car parks and on the street, park for best deal. If you feel you are being charged up to three hours on single and double more for your policy than other drivers in yellow lines and often park for free in local similar circumstances, ask the insurance authority car parks and bays (check first, as company for details of why they consider some local authorities still charge). In you to be a greater risk. Mobility Centres and Central London boroughs, parking is only organisations of disabled drivers have lists of in designated bays. specialist insurance companies. The scheme is administered by local We know of the following companies authorities which deal with applications which specialise in insurance services for and issue badges. disabled people: For more information: n Chartwell 0845 260 7051 Department for Transport Blue Badge n En-route 0800 783 7245 helpline: n First Senior 01582 840067 020 7944 2914 or 0161 367 0009 n Fish 0800 012 6329 [email protected] n Lockton 020 7933 0000 www.dft.gov.uk – follow the Access for n Premier Care 01476 591104 Disabled People link

29 Useful organisations MOBILITY CENTRES Key to services Your first stop is likely to be a Mobility The centres vary in size and in the services Centre – for telephone advice or for an they offer. Here we detail some of the assessment of your needs, for example. services offered: There are 17 Mobility Centres in the UK. I free information service They give practical and independent D advice on choosing a vehicle, driving it, advice and assessment to disabled drivers driving controls and learning to drive and passengers. They will assess your P assessment and advice about getting in ability to drive, advise you about vehicles and out of vehicles, loading of that might suit you and about any wheelchairs and other equipment adaptations you may need. They are well W advice on selecting and using a informed on motoring and disability issues wheelchair or scooter generally. Each centre has expert and T driving tuition for new drivers, people friendly staff who are likely to have met returning to driving and those who will and solved similar problems before. They be using different controls are non commercial and impartial. A fitting adaptations for drivers or An assessment for a driver referring him passengers or herself will cost from £50 to £130 (depending on the centre). In Scotland Bristol assessment is free if referred by a GP. Costs Living (formerly Disabled Living Centre) for assessment as a passenger are lower – The Vassall Centre generally around £20 – £50. Motability Gill Avenue, Fishponds customers may qualify for a free Bristol BS16 2QQ assessment under the Managed Satellite centres: Cheltenham, Sparkford, Adaptation Programme. Semington Mobility Centres are accredited by the Tel: 0117 965 9353 Forum of Mobility Centres and have Fax: 0117 965 3652 certain minimum standards. For more Email: [email protected] information on the centres contact: www.thisisliving.org.uk Services: I D P W T

Cornwall The Forum of Mobility Centres Cornwall Mobility Centre c/o Providence Chapel, Warehorne Servicing the South West Peninsula Ashford, Kent TN26 2JX Tehidy House, Royal Cornwall Hospital Tel: 0800 559 3636 Truro, Cornwall TR1 3LJ Email: [email protected] Tel: 01872 254 920 www.mobility-centres.org.uk Fax: 01872 254 921

30 Email: Lancashire [email protected] Wrightington Mobility Centre www.cornwallmobilitycentre.co.uk Wrightington Hospital Services: I D P W T A Hall Lane Wigan Derbyshire Lancs WN6 9EP Derby DrivAbility Satellite centre: Tyldsley (Manchester) Kingsway Hospital, Derby DE22 3LZ Tel: 01257 256 409 Tel: 01332 371 929 Fax: 01257 256 538 Fax: 01332 382 377 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Services: I D P www.derbydrivability.com Services: I D P T Norfolk East Anglian DriveAbility Hampshire 2 Napier Place, Thetford Wessex DriveAbility Norfolk IP24 3RL Leornain House, Kent Road Satellite centres: Coggeshall, Spalding Portswood, Southampton SO17 2LJ Tel: 01842 753 029 Tel: 023 8051 2222 Fax: 01842 755 950 Fax: 023 8051 2226 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.eastangliandriveability.org.uk www.wessexdriveability.org.uk Services: I D P W T Services: I D P T North East Hertfordshire North East Drive Mobility Hertfordshire Action on Disability Walkergate Park Centre for Neuro- The Woodside Centre, The Commons rehabilitation and Neuro-psychiatry Welwyn Garden City AL7 4DD Benfield Road Tel: 01707 324 581 Newcastle upon Tyne NE6 4QD Fax: 01707 371 297 Satellite centre: Penrith Cumbria Email: [email protected] Tel: 0191 287 5090 www.hadnet.org.uk Email: Services: I D P W T [email protected] Services: I D P T Kent The Driving Assessment and Advice Centre Oxfordshire Cobtree Ward, Preston Hall Hospital Regional Driving Assessment Centre London Rd, Aylesford, Kent ME20 7NJ Unit A, Anvil Court Tel: 01622 795 719 Stanton Harcourt Road Fax: 01622 795 720 Eynsham Email: [email protected] Oxfordshire OX29 4UD Services: I D P T Services: I D P W T

31 Surrey NORTHERN IRELAND Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation Disability Action Mobility Centre Portside Business Park, 189 Airport Road Damson Way, Fountain Drive Belfast BT3 9ED Carshalton, Surrey SM5 4NR Satellite centres: Ballymena, Dungannon, Tel: 020 8770 1151 Londonderry, Newry Fax: 020 8770 1211 Tel: 028 9029 7880 Email: [email protected] Fax: 028 9020 7881 www.qefd.org/our-services/mobility- Email: [email protected] services Services: I D P T Services: I D P W T SCOTLAND West Midlands Scottish Driving Assessment Service Regional Driving Assessment Centre Astley Ainslie Hospital, 133 Grange Loan Unit 11 Network Park Edinburgh EH9 2HL Duddeston Mill Road Satellite centre: Mobile Driving Assessment Birmingham B8 1AU Service Satellite centres: Cannock, Hull, Tel: 0131 537 9192 Northampton, Oxford Fax: 0131 537 9193 Tel: 0845 337 1540 Email: Fax: 0121 333 4568 [email protected] Email:[email protected] Services: I D P www.rdac.co.uk Services: I D P T NORTH WALES North Wales Mobility and Driving West Yorkshire Assessment Service The William Merritt Centre Disability Resources Centre Disabled Living Centre and Mobility Service Glan Clwyd Hospital St Mary’s Hospital, Green Hill Road Bodelwyddan, Denbighshire LL18 5UJ Armley Tel: 01745 584 858 Leeds LS12 3QE Fax: 01745 582 762 Tel: 0113 305 5288 Email: [email protected] Fax: 0113 231 9291 Services: I D P W T A Email: [email protected] www.williammerrittleeds.org SOUTH WALES Services: I D P W South Wales Mobility and Driving Assessment Service, Rookwood Hospital Fairwater Road, Llandaff, Cardiff CF5 2YN Tel: 029 2055 5130 Fax: 029 2055 5130 Email: [email protected] Services: I D P

32 USEFUL ORGANISATIONS

OTHER ORGANISATIONS c/o Chester-le-Street and District CVS Blue Badge Network Volunteer Centre Has up-to-date information, news and Clarence Terrace ideas relating to parking concessions in Chester-le-Street DH3 3DQ particular and disability issues in general. Tel/Fax: 0191 416 3172 11 Parson’s Street www.dmfed.org.uk Dudley DY1 1JJ Tel: 01384 257001 Disability Now Fax: 01384 257317 A monthly newspaper published by SCOPE Email: with reviews by disabled people and ads [email protected] for secondhand vehicles and equipment. www.bluebadgenetwork.org.uk Subscribe or order from your newsagent. Tel: 0844 249 0228 A website providing Email: [email protected] information about www.disabilitynow.org.uk public services. They have useful sections on motoring and Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency on disability. Drivers Medical Group www.direct.gov.uk/disabledpeople Tel: 0300 790 6806 Fax: 0845 850 0095 Provide advice and Email: [email protected] information on www.direct.gov.uk/motoring disability equipment. Northern Ireland They have a database of products and Driver and Vehicle Agency suppliers with details of conversions, Tel: 0845 402 4000 hoists and lifting equipment, car seats, Email: [email protected] hire vehicles, accessories and much more. www.dvani.gov.uk 38 0–384 Harrow Road London W9 2HU The campaigning Tel: 0845 130 9177 charity for disabled (weekdays 10am to 4pm) motorist.ey run the www.dlf.org.uk Baywatch capaign against parking abuse www.livingmadeeasy.org.uk abd rnpresent disabled people’s needs at a national levels,. . Membership, £20 per Disabled Motorists’ year (£30 for joint members), includes a Federation monthly magazine, advice service and An umbrella organisation for member benefits. disabled motorists’ clubs. It provides Ashwellthorpe, Norwich NR16 1EX information and advice on travel, vehicles Tel: 01508 489449 and modifications. The Way Ahead , Fax: 01508 488173 quarterly, is free to members. Email: [email protected] Membership £14 a year. www.disabledmotoring.org

33 Mobility Remap Scotland Roadshows have a The website has a useful map showing the wide range of locations of local groups. adapted cars to see and try, as well as Forgue House, Forgue, Huntly AB54 6DA mobility products. Manufacturers and Tel: 01466 730 736 organisations are on hand to give advice Email: [email protected] and demonstrations. Roadshows are free. www.remap-scotland.org

England and Scotland Service Call Mobility Choice organise a roadshow in A service that allows disabled England every year and one in Scotland people to use petrol stations and every two years. other services that are difficult to access. Tel: 0845 241 0390 You carry an infrared transmitter (£14.95 Fax: 0845 241 2136 inc p&p), which you use to signal that you Email: [email protected] need assistance at participating outlets, www.mobilityroadshow.co.uk which include thousands of petrol stations, banks, supermarkets, shops and others. Northern Ireland Tel: 0800 214 045 Disability Action organise an annual show www.service-call.net in Northern Ireland. Tel: 028 9029 7880 Wheelchair Accessible Fax: 028 9029 7881 Vehicle Converters Textphone: 028 9029 7882 Association Email: [email protected] The trade association for companies who www.disabilityaction.org make and sell WAVs. WAVCA aims to improve the quality and safety of WAVs A voluntary and lobbies for legislation for wheelchair organisation of passenger vehicles engineers who Members must: invent, design and make devices or carry n have been trading for at least 2 years out adaptations to help disabled people to n offer at least 3 years warranty be more independent or to enjoy leisure n have passed safety tests on restraints activities when nothing exists on the and seat belts market to solve their particular problem. n demonstrate a commitment to England, Wales and NI customer service D9 Chaucer Business Park Kemsing WAVCA c/o Lewis Reed Kent TN15 6YU Plantation Court, Plantation Road Tel: 0845 130 0456 Wirral International Business Park Fax: 0845 130 0789 Bromborough, Wirral CH62 3QR Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.remap.org.uk www.wavca.co.uk

34 Ricability guides All these guides are available in print and online at www.ricability.org.uk. On our website there is also searchable database of car measurements called Find a car . ricability ricability GETTIricaNbilityG IN ricability CAR CONTROLS Ricability is a research charity Ricability is an independent that publishes independent research charity that publishes information on products Getting in and out of a car information on products Car controls and services for older and and services for older and disabled people AND Odisabled peopleUT OF A Information on types of Ricability Ricability Unit G03 The Wenlock Unit G03 The Wenlock 50–52 Wharf Road 50–52 Wharf Road London N1 7EU London N1 7EU Tel: 020 7427 2460 Tel: 020 7427 2460 Fax: 020 7427 2468 CAR Fax: 020 7427 2468 adaptations and how to Textphone: 020 7427 2469 Textphone: 020 7427 2469 e-mail: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.ricability.org.uk www.ricability.org.uk

Research: Jasper Holmes Photography: Robin Beckham Cover illustration: Michael Munday Design: Price Watkins help as yPrint:o WPG u get older; it covers simple and ISBN: 978-1-907408-08-3 © Ricability helpful e2011quipment and more complex details of lifting systems conversions and if you need more help controls A guide for older and disabled people Spring 2011 A guide for older and disabled people 2011 ricability ricability GETTIricaNbilityG A ricability WHEELCHAIR Ricability is a research charity that publishes independent information Ricability is an independent on products and services for older and disabled people research charity that publishes Wheelchair Getting awheelchair into acar information on products Ricability and services for older and Unit G03 The Wenlock disabled people 50–52 Wharf Road accessible vehicles London N1 7EU WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE Ricability Tel: 020 7427 2460 Unit G03 The Wenlock Fax: 020 7427 2468 50–52 Wharf Road Textphone: 020 7427 2469 London N1 7EU e-mail: [email protected] Tel: 020 7427 2460 www.ricability.org.uk Fax: 020 7427 2468 www.ricability-digitaltv.org.uk INTO A CAR VEHICLES Textphone: 020 7427 2469 ISBN: 978-1-907408-03-8 Email: [email protected] © Ricability www.ricability.org.uk Autumn 2010 Equipment to help you Information on vehicles

Research: Jasper Holmes Photography: Cover illustration: Michael Munday Design: Price Watkins stow or Pcrint: WPGa rry a converted to allow you ISBN: © Ricability wheelch2011air in a car, to travel in your including ramps, hoists, wheelchair, as a

racks and trailers passenger or driver. 10 N 20 IO A guide for older and disabled people IT A guide for older and disabled people 2011 ED

Mob addressesFINAL WPG:Layout 1 23/06/2010 09:21 Page i ricability MOBILITY SEVEN SHORTER GUIDES ADDRESS LIST n Motoring after amputation Addresses of all n Motoring after brain injury adaptation suppliers, n Motoring after a stroke fitters and converters in n Motoring with arthritis the UK and the services n Motoring with cerebral palsy Mobility they offer n Motoring with multiple sclerosis address list n Motoring with restricted growth June 2010

Motability has teamed up with leading home, pet and travel insurers

n For full details of the Motability Insurance range visit www.motability.co.uk or call direct: Motability HOME Insurance 0800 783 0061 Motability PET Insurance 0800 369 9094 Motability TRAVEL Insurance 0800 519 9957 n For every policy sold, the insurance providers will pay a proportion of the premium in commission to Motability to help disabled people remain mobile. rica bili ty

Ricability is an independent research charity that publishes information on products and services for older and disabled people

Tel: 020 7427 2460 Textphone: 020 7427 2469 Email: [email protected] www.ricability.org.uk

In pa rtnership with: