Driving & Disabilities
Mobility Independence
Can you drive with CP?
Yes, many people with cerebral palsy are able to drive. In most cases, safe driving will require 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. The assessment should include vision, cognition, perception, motor coordination, functional ability, reaction time, and a behind-the-wheel evaluation. After this assessment, the driver rehabilitation specialist will help you identify what special equipment or accomodations are needed to acheive independent, safe driving.
Adaptive Driving Equipment
Possible Mobility Solutions for a Driver with Cerebral Palsy
Oftentimes, driving with cerebral palsy requires vehicle modifications and adaptive equipment. While every driver is unique, the equipment listed below is frequently used by drivers with cerebral palsy. 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.
Steering DeviceCommonly used with hand controls, a steering device attaches to a vehicle’s steering wheel to provide easier and more comfortable steering.
Left Foot AcceleratorA left foot accelerator allows the driver to accelerate and brake with their left foot while keeping their right foot stationary.
Transfer AidA transfer aid, such as BraunAbility® Turny® Evo, can assist with entering and exiting the vehicle independently.
Scooter Stowage LiftIf the driver utilizes a mobility aid, such as scooter, a stowage lift can assist with transporting it.
Wheelchair Accessible VanIf the driver uses a power wheelchair, a wheelchair accessible van may be needed.
Resources
Additional Resources for Driving and Cerebral Palsy
The organizations listed below can provide more resources and information on learning to drive with adaptive equipment for individuals with cerebral palsy. 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.
UCP
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) is a non-profit organization that focuses on providing support, resources, and advocacy for individuals with cerebral palsy and other disabilities, as well as their families. UCP was founded in 1949 and has since grown to become a leading source of information and assistance for people with disabilities and their families in the United States.
UCP operates through a network of local affiliates across the country, providing a wide range of services such as education and employment assistance, accessibility modifications, social and recreational programs, and information and referral services. UCP also works to promote public policies and legislation that improve the lives of people with disabilities, including advocating for increased funding for disability-related services and programs.
In addition to cerebral palsy, UCP also serves individuals with other developmental disabilities such as Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, and intellectual disabilities. Overall, UCP's mission is to enhance the independence, productivity, and full citizenship of people with disabilities.
MI-UCP
Michigan United Cerebral Palsy (MI-UCP) is a state affiliate of United Cerebral Palsy, a non-profit organization that provides services and advocacy for people with cerebral palsy and other disabilities. Michigan UCP focuses on providing support and services to people with disabilities in the state of Michigan.
Michigan UCP offers a range of services to individuals with disabilities, including early intervention and education services for children, assistive technology, employment and job training programs, and independent living support. They also provide support and resources to families of people with disabilities, including counseling, education, and advocacy services.
Michigan UCP is involved in advocacy efforts to improve public policies and funding for disability-related services and programs in the state. They work to ensure that people with disabilities have equal access to education, employment, and other opportunities, and that they are able to live independent, fulfilling lives.
Overall, Michigan UCP's mission is to promote the independence, productivity, and full citizenship of people with disabilities in the state of Michigan.