How to Choose the Right Hand Controls for Your Vehicle
When it comes to maintaining independence and confidence on the road, hand controls for vehicles can be a life-changing solution for drivers with mobility limitations. With a variety of options available, choosing the right adaptive driving equipment is crucial to ensuring both safety and comfort behind the wheel.
Understanding Hand Controls for Your Vehicle
Hand controls allow drivers to operate essential vehicle functions such as acceleration and braking using their hands instead of their feet. They are designed to provide greater accessibility and enable drivers to regain their freedom. The right solution will depend on your physical needs, driving habits, and vehicle type.
Types of Hand Driving Controls
There are several types of hand controls, each offering different benefits depending on the driver’s requirements:
- Push/Pull Controls: Simple and commonly used, these allow drivers to accelerate by pushing forward and brake by pulling back on the lever.
- Radial Controls: Operated by rotating the lever downward for acceleration and pushing forward to brake, offering a more ergonomic motion.
- Electronic Accelerator Rings: Mounted on the steering wheel, these rings allow acceleration by pressing with the fingers while maintaining full control of the wheel.
- Brake Levers: Independent hand-operated brake systems often used in combination with accelerator rings.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Hand Controls
Selecting the right adaptive driving equipment involves more than just choosing a model. Here’s what to consider:
- Your Physical Requirements
Every driver’s needs are unique. Consider your strength, dexterity, and range of motion when deciding which system will offer the most comfort and safety.
- Vehicle Compatibility
Not all hand controls are compatible with every vehicle. It’s essential to check whether your car’s make, model, and transmission type will support the chosen system.
- Driving Style
Do you prefer a more ergonomic or intuitive system? Testing different models through a trial session will help you find what feels most natural.
- Certification and Compliance
Ensure that your selected equipment meets Australian Design Rules (ADR) and any state-specific compliance requirements, especially if you are seeking funding through the NDIS or EnableNSW.
Popular Hand Control Brands
At Mobility Engineering, we offer a range of high-quality hand controls from leading brands, including:
- Veigel Compact II: A modern push/pull control known for its sleek design and ease of use.
- KIVI K-Series Accelerator Ring: Provides a reliable and intuitive solution for drivers who require enhanced control of their vehicle’s acceleration.
- BraunAbility Carospeed: Classic mechanical controls offering durability and simplicity.
Trial and Installation
Before committing to any adaptive driving equipment, we recommend booking a hands-on clinical trial with one of our solutions specialists. Our nationwide network ensures that you can test the latest equipment and receive expert advice.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hand controls for your vehicle is an important step toward maintaining your driving independence. With the right guidance and equipment, adaptive driving solutions can transform the way you experience the road.
If you’re considering hand controls or need advice on the best solution for your needs, contact Mobility Engineering today to arrange a trial or speak with one of our solutions specialists.