DRIVING & DISABILITIES
Return to Driving
Can you drive after a limb amputation?
Yes, many people return to driving after a limb amputation. In most cases, safe driving can be achieved with the addition of adaptive devices to assist in operating the vehicle’s primary driving controls (gas, brake, and steering) as well as the vehicle’s secondary driving controls (turn signals, windshield wipers, horn, etc.).
To determine if you are a candidate for driving, a driver rehabilitation specialist can provide a comprehensive evaluation. After this assessment, the driver rehabilitation specialist will help you identify what special equipment or accomodations are needed to aid in safely maintaining your mobility independence.
Adaptive Driving Equipment
Possible Mobility Solutions for a Driver with a Limb Amputation
Driving after a limb amputation may require vehicle modifications or adaptive equipment. While every driver is unique, the equipment listed below is frequently used by drivers following an amputation. In addition to these items, there are more products available to help create a safe and comfortable driving experience that is customized for you.
To help you determine what solution best fits your needs, your driver rehabilitation specialist will likely have different variations of demo equipment for you to try. If a particular product is not available for you to demo, please contact a Creative Mobility Group showroom so we can facilitate a demonstration for you with your driver rehabilitation specialist.
Lower Extremity (Right Leg)
Examples of adaptive driving equipment that may be utilized after a right leg amputation include:
Left Foot Accelerator
A left foot accelerator allows the driver to accelerate and brake with their left foot while keeping their right foot stationary.
Hand Controls
An alternative to a left foot accelerator, hand controls allow the driver to accelerate and brake using hand movements instead of their foot.
Steering Device
Commonly used with hand controls, a steering device attaches to a vehicle's steering wheel to provide easier and more comfortable steering.
Bilateral Lower Extremity
Examples of adaptive driving equipment that may be utilized after a bilaeral lower extremity amputation include:
Hand Controls
Hand controls allow the driver to accelerate and brake using hand movements.
Steering Device
Commonly used with hand controls, a steering device attaches to a vehicle's steering wheel to provide easier and more comfortable steering.
Secondary Control Modifications
Some drivers may require secondary control modifcations to more easily access functions such as the turn signals or windshield wipers.
Chest Strap
A chest support strap may be used for drivers who need additional abdominal/chest support.
Scooter Stowage Lift
If the driver utilizes a mobility aid such as scooter or wheelchair, a stowage lift can assist with transporting it.
Transfer Aid
A transfer aid, such as BraunAbility® Turny® Evo, can assist with entering and exiting the vehicle independently.
Upper Extremity
Examples of adaptive driving equipment that may be utilized after an upper extremity amputation include:
Steering Device
A steering device attaches to a vehicle's steering wheel to provide easier and more comfortable steering.
Reduced Effort Steering
In addition to a steering device, a reduced effort steering modification or other steering wheel modifications may be needed.
Secondary Control Modifications
Some drivers may require secondary control modifcations to more easily access functions such as the turn signals or windshield wipers.
Triple or Quadruple Limb Loss
Examples of adaptive driving equipment that may be utilized after for a driver with triple or quadruple limb loss include:
Low Effort Hand Controls
Low effot hand controls allow the driver to accelerate and brake with minimal effort and travel.
Steering Device
Commonly used with hand controls, a steering device attaches to a vehicle's steering wheel to provide easier and more comfortable steering.
Reduced Effort Steering
In addition to a steering device, a reduced effort steering modification or other steering wheel modifications may be needed.
Modified Gear Shifter
An electronic or mechanical gear shift modification can allow the driver to more easily engage the shifter.
Transfer Aid
A transfer aid, such as BraunAbility® Turny® Evo, can assist with entering and exiting the vehicle independently.
Wheelchair Accessible Van
If the driver uses a power wheelchair, a wheelchair accessible van may be needed.
Resources
Additional Resources for Driving After a Limb Amputation
The organizations listed below can provide more resources and information on learning to drive with adaptive equipment after a limb amputation. If you’re ready to begin your driver rehabilitation journey, contact The Creative Mobility Group to help you get started!
NMEDA
NMEDA stands for the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association. It is a non-profit trade association that represents businesses in the United States and Canada that sell and service wheelchair accessible vehicles and adaptive mobility equipment.
The mission of NMEDA is to promote safe and reliable wheelchair accessible vehicles and adaptive equipment for people with disabilities. They work to ensure that individuals with disabilities have access to the best mobility solutions and to support their independence and quality of life.
NMEDA members include mobility dealers, manufacturers, and rehabilitation professionals who work together to provide customized solutions for individuals with disabilities. They provide education, training, and certification programs to ensure that their members have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide quality products and services to their customers.
Additionally, NMEDA engages in advocacy efforts to promote policies and regulations that support the needs of individuals with disabilities. They work to improve access to transportation and to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal opportunities to participate in all aspects of society.
AOTA
AOTA stands for the American Occupational Therapy Association. It is a national professional organization that represents occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants, and occupational therapy students in the United States. The association works to promote the profession, advocate for occupational therapy services, and support the professional development of its members.
Some of the AOTA's key initiatives include promoting evidence-based practice, advocating for occupational therapy services in health care policy and reimbursement, providing continuing education opportunities for members, and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the profession. The AOTA also publishes research and resources related to occupational therapy practice and education, as well as standards for ethical and competent practice.
Amputee Coalition
The Amputee Coalition is a nonprofit organization that supports and advocates for people who have experienced limb loss or limb difference, as well as their families and caregivers. The organization provides a wide range of resources and services, including peer support, education, information, and advocacy.
The Amputee Coalition has a national network of support groups, which provide opportunities for people with limb loss to connect with others who have had similar experiences. Additionally, the organization offers educational resources and events, such as the National Conference on Limb Loss and the Paddy Rossbach Youth Camp for children and teens with limb loss.
The Amputee Coalition also engages in advocacy efforts to promote the rights and well-being of people with limb loss, including working to improve access to prosthetic and orthotic care, healthcare coverage, and employment opportunities. The organization is committed to promoting inclusion and accessibility for all people with limb loss or limb difference.