Man pulling wheelchair into seat behind drivers seat

Adaptive Driving 

This Infinitec website, including our special features, looks at how technology advances independence. So too, we devote a section called Adaptive Driving to freedom and safe driving for all. And isn't driving the great equalizer? Adapted driving allows a driver with a disability and a non-disabled driver to drive equally well, wherever they choose!

Of course, the first step in adaptive driving is getting a reliable assessment by a driving rehabilitation specialist. With the appropriate adaptive aids, an individual with most types of physical disability can continue driving safely. Click over to driving assessments to learn important driver safety and find helpful resources. Infinitec's own Nancy Knowsbest will be there to show you the ropes!

Then for descriptions of typical vehicle modifications, see Infinitec's vehicle modifications page. Just about any vehicle can be adapted if the vehicle fits the driver. Some drivers will need a two-door car, while others find more flexibility in a four-door, and still others will require a van or sports utility vehicle. For names of places you can buy accessible vehicles or have your own vehicle adapted, browse our list of vehicle modification and equipment dealers.

Just remember, there are many on-the-road options today, even driving an accessible RV! Organized RV groups travel across the country in large groups. Or just enjoy being a typical driver near home. Get on the road and into the game! You can do it!

Read this article on Teaching Students with Autism to Drive.

 

Self-service gas pumps-they're harder than they look! 

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires self-serve gas stations to provide equal access to their customers with disabilities. If necessary, to provide access, gas stations must provide refueling assistance (without any charge beyond the self-serve price) upon the request of an individual with a disability.

Gas station management must let patrons know (with appropriate signage) that customers with disabilities can obtain refueling assistance by either honking or otherwise signaling an employee.

However, a service station or convenience store is not required to provide such service at any time that it is operating on a remote control basis with a single employee, but is encouraged to do so, if feasible.