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Pedal adaptations: Everything you need to know

Electronic left foot acceleratorHelping you put your best foot forward

A whole variety of adjustments can be made to the pedals of a car, to enable driving or improve the experience. These range from left foot accelerator pedals, to pedal extensions (for those who are struggling to reach).

Left foot accelerator pedals

Left foot accelerator pedals are designed for drivers with limited use of their right leg, enabling the operation of the brake and accelerator with the left foot.

An additional accelerator pedal is fitted to the left of the brake and both accelerator pedals are hinged to flip up and down so that the vehicle can be driven using either the right foot or the left, depending on the driver. The twin flip folding system, which is the most commonly fitted, links the left and right accelerator pedals, so when one pedal is flipped down ready for use, the other flips up out of the way automatically.

Left foot accelerators will fit all automatic vehicles except those that feature ‘organ style’ (floor mounted) pedals.

Floor mounted left foot acceleratorFloor mounted left foot accelerators

Very similar to the twin flip folding system, the floor mounted left foot accelerator is designed specifically for vehicles with ‘organ style’ (floor mounted) accelerator pedals.

The system features an additional accelerator pedal, fitted to the left of the brake. This accelerator is linked to the original accelerator so that when it is depressed it pushes the existing accelerator with a roller, giving a smooth and progressive throttle response. The existing accelerator is protected by a pedal guard so that it can’t be accidentally pressed with the right foot.

The pedal guard features a quick release mechanism and can also be fitted over the left foot accelerator pedal easily, so the vehicle can be driven using either the right foot or the left, depending on the driver.

Electronic left foot accelerators

This system is designed specifically for vehicles with ‘organ style’ (floor mounted) accelerator pedals and provides an alternative solution to the floor mounted left foot accelerator. The electronic left foot accelerator works in a similar way to this system but does not require a pedal guard to protect the pedals that are not in use, allowing for more leg room in the footwell.

The system features an additional accelerator, fitted to the left of the brake. The two accelerator pedals are then cleverly wired so that you can simply flip a switch to select which pedal is to be used for acceleration, left or right.  The opposite pedal is automatically ‘switched off’ when the other is active, which means the foot not being used to drive can be rested comfortably on the other pedal, without activating the accelerator. In this way the system also allows for conventional driving with the right foot as an option.

Pedal guardPedal guards

Pedal guards are used alongside hand controls to prevent the pedals being pressed accidentally, or the feet getting stuck behind the pedals. They are particularly helpful for drivers suffering with involuntary leg movements or spasms, who are at higher risk of accidentally hitting the pedals.

Available in a single, or double pedal size, single pedal guards are often fitted to protect the brake while the accelerator is adapted with a hinge, so it can be flipped up out of the way. This serves the same purpose as a double pedal guard but it allows the right leg to be stretched out in the space where the accelerator pedal would normally be.

Pedal guards are fitted with a quick release system, so they can be removed easily, allowing for conventional driving.

Pedal extensionsPedal extensions

Pedal extensions are a great solution for drivers who struggle to reach the pedals comfortably. The distance of the extensions is made to measure, suiting the requirements of each driver individually; however, for extensions of 3-4 inches or more, a raised floor will also be recommended.

Pedal extensions can be fitted with a quick release mechanism, allowing them to be easily removed depending on the requirements.

Pedal extensions with raised floor

In cases where the pedals are extended by 3-4 inches (or more) a raised floor will be recommended, because it is unlikely in these instances that the driver’s feet will reach the floor of the vehicle naturally.

The raised floor and extensions can both be removable, allowing for conventional driving depending on requirements.

Pedal extensions with raised floor

Other pedal adjustments

Hinged accelerator pedals

Hinged accelerator pedals are designed for drivers who use hand controls for brake and acceleration. The pedal simply flips up out of the way, reducing the risk that it will be pressed accidentally, then flips back down to allow for conventional driving. This also gives the driver the option of stretching their right leg out in the space where the accelerator pedal would normally be.

Hinged accelerator pedals are often used alongside brake guards, which are designed to prevent the driver from accidentally hitting the brake pedal.

Removable pedals

For drivers using hand controls to brake and accelerate, removable pedals can provide a good alternative solution to pedal guards, particularly for those who need additional leg room in the footwell. The pedals are fitted with a quick release mechanism so they can easily be removed and fitted, depending on requirements.

Removable brake and accelerator pedals are both available, although removable accelerators have largely given way to their hinged counterparts, as they are generally a simpler solution.

Other adjustments

Drivers may find that the height of the pedals, or the distance between them causes difficulty or discomfort. A number of adjustments can be made to the pedals to resolve these problems, from bringing the height of the pedals in line with one another, to increasing the space between them, depending on requirements.

Bespoke solutions tailored to your needs

We pride ourselves on our ability to engineer bespoke solutions to resolve complex problems. If you’ve previously been told something can’t be done, please contact us to discuss your requirements so we can look at your options with you.

Electronic hand controls: Everything you need to know

Satellite AcceleratorThere is a wide range of electronic hand controls available on the market. Most operate in a similar way to mechanical hand controls but they are much lighter to use. The majority of electronic accelerators are also used alongside a mechanical brake, however, electronic brake systems are also available.

Why choose electronic hand controls

Some drivers have limited strength in their upper body as well as in the lower body, which can make operating mechanical hand controls difficult. In these cases, electronic systems can provide a good solution, because very little pressure or upper body strength is required to operate them.

If you aren’t sure which hand controls you require, our team is here to talk through your options with you. If you have never used hand controls before, we may recommend a driving assessment with an accredited assessment centre.

Over-ring accelerators

electronic hand controlsThe over-ring accelerator is designed to sit neatly over the steering wheel, blending in with the vehicle’s interior. The ring is simply pressed downwards to accelerate. Because the system is electronic, very little pressure or upper body strength is required to operate the over ring, which makes it a great solution for drivers with limited mobility in the upper body.

The brake fitted with the over ring accelerator is usually a mechanical push lever system operated by the right hand. A safety feature ensures the accelerator automatically cuts out when braking is applied.

The over ring system allows the driver to operate the accelerator without removing the hands from the steering wheel, which means there is no need for a steering ball or an indicator switch on the brake lever. It also allows the driver to change the position of the hands whilst still operating the throttle, so there’s less chance of stiffening up after prolonged periods of driving.

Under-ring accelerators

Electronic hand controlsThe under-ring accelerator is designed to sit neatly under the steering wheel, blending in with the vehicle’s interior. The ring is simply pressed inwards (towards the steering wheel) to accelerate. Because the system is electronic, very little pressure or upper body strength is required to operate the under-ring, which makes it a great solution for drivers with limited mobility in the upper body.

The brake fitted with the under-ring accelerator is usually a mechanical push lever system operated by the right hand. A safety feature ensures the accelerator automatically cuts out when braking is applied.

The under-ring system allows the driver to operate the accelerator without removing the hands from the steering wheel, which means there is no need for a steering ball or an indicator switch on the brake lever. It also allows the driver to change the position of the hands whilst still operating the throttle, so there’s less chance of stiffening up after prolonged periods of driving.

The Ghost Accelerator

Electronic hand controlsThe Ghost Accelerator is the latest in electronic hand controls. It is designed to sit neatly under the steering wheel, blending in with the vehicle’s interior. The driver accelerates by performing a simple rotary movement with the ring (clockwise or anticlockwise). Because the system is electronic, very little pressure or upper body strength is required to operate the under ring, which makes it a great solution for drivers with limited mobility in the upper body.

The brake fitted with the Ghost accelerator is usually a mechanical push lever system operated by the right hand. A safety feature ensures the accelerator automatically cuts out when braking is applied.

The Ghost system allows the driver to operate the accelerator without removing the hands from the steering wheel, which means there is no need for a steering ball or an indicator switch on the brake lever. It also allows the driver to change the position of the hands whilst still operating the throttle, so there’s less chance of stiffening up after prolonged periods of driving.

Electronic radial hand controls

Electronic hand controlsRadial electronic hand controls operate in a similar way to push/pull hand controls. The brake and accelerator are controlled using a lever system that is operated by the right hand. The brake is controlled by pushing the lever away (towards the front of the car) and the accelerator is controlled by pushing the lever downwards (towards the floor of the vehicle). A safety feature ensures the accelerator automatically cuts out when braking is applied.

Because the system is electronic, very little pressure or upper body strength is required to operate it, which makes it a great solution for drivers with limited mobility in the upper body. Electronic radial hand controls are also a great solution for drivers who experience problems with gripping because the hand can simply be rested on the lever to operate the accelerator instead of needing to pull it towards the body, as is necessary with push/pull style controls.

Trigger hand controls

Electronic trigger controlsTrigger hand controls operate in a similar way to push/pull hand controls. The brake and accelerator are controlled using a lever and trigger system that is operated by the right hand. The brake is mechanical and is controlled by pushing the lever away (towards the front of the car) and the accelerator is electronic and controlled by using the index finger to pull a small trigger. A safety feature ensures the accelerator automatically cuts out when braking is applied.

Because the accelerator is electronic, very little pressure or upper body strength is required to operate the system, which makes it a great solution for drivers with limited mobility in the upper body.

Satellite accelerators

Electronic hand controlsThe satellite accelerator is operated by pressing down on a small plunger that is attached to a lead, allowing it to be held in one hand, in a variety of positions. This allows the driver to change the position of the hands whilst still operating the throttle, so there’s less chance of stiffening up after prolonged periods of driving. Because the system is electronic, very little pressure or upper body strength is required to operate the accelerator, which makes it a great solution for drivers with limited mobility in the upper body.

The brake fitted with the satellite accelerator is usually a mechanical push lever system operated by the right hand. A safety feature ensures the accelerator automatically cuts out when braking is applied.

Electronic pull accelerators

Electronic hand controlsThe electronic pull accelerator is a lever system that is operated with the right hand. The brake is mechanical and is controlled by pushing the lever away (towards the front of the car) and the accelerator is electronic and is controlled by pulling the lever inwards, towards the driver’s body. Because the accelerator is electronic, very little pressure or upper body strength is required to operate the system, which makes it a great solution for drivers with limited upper-body mobility. A safety feature ensures that the accelerator automatically cuts out when braking is applied.

The push/pull systems we fit are the very best on the market – and we always select the modern ‘discreet’ control systems wherever possible. With these systems, the metal rods are largely hidden, which is not only aesthetically far more pleasing than having them on show, but also makes entering and exiting the vehicle much easier without banging the knees.

Bespoke solutions tailored to your needs

At Ergomobility, we pride ourselves on our ability to engineer bespoke solutions to resolve complex problems. If you’ve previously been told something can’t be done, please contact us to discuss your requirements so we can look at your options with you.

Mechanical hand controls – Everything you need to know

As time marches on, the vehicle adaptation industry is continually developing better ways of helping disabled drivers. Arguably one of the oldest types of adaptations is hand controls. These allow disabled drivers to control the accelerator and brake pedals via a system of levers mounted below the steering wheel.

So what are the different types of hand controls?Push-pull hand controls

Push/pull hand controls

The standard push/pull controls are a very simple set of levers attached to the car’s accelerator and brake pedals and fitted to one side of the steering wheel. All a driver needs to do is pull towards themselves to go and push away from themselves to stop.

Radial hand or push/right angle controlsRadial hand controls

Radial or push/right angle hand controls provide an alternative solution for drivers who struggle to grip with their hands. Similar to push/pull controls, drivers will still control the brake by pushing a lever away from themselves. However, the accelerator is now operated at right angles to the brake by pushing the lever down towards the floor of the vehicle.

Because the lever can be pressed downwards using any part of the hand, no grip is required. These controls can also help to alleviate shoulder pain that can be experienced by some drivers following prolonged periods of driving with push/pull controls.

Floor-mounted push/pull hand controls Floor-mounted push-pull hand controls

For drivers who struggle to hold their arms up for long periods, there is the option of the floor-mounted push/pull hand controls. These are operated by pushing and pulling a lever attached to the floor on the left side of the driver.

Again, the brake is operated by pushing away while the accelerator is engaged by pulling inwards towards the driver. With the operating hand sitting much lower next to the driver’s thigh, there is less strain on the arm and shoulder. It can also make getting in and out of the vehicle easier due to the positioning of the controls compared to some other systems.

With all of these systems, the vehicle can still be driven using the pedals if desired as they are not affected and remain intact.

Why choose Ergomobility?

Ergomobility is an independent adaptations specialist, which means that we have no ties to any specific manufacturers. We only ever select our products based on quality and performance and always choose adaptations that are right for our customers. This is why we use ‘Discreet Hand Controls’ wherever possible because we understand the benefits that they offer to our customers.

What are discreet hand controls

With these systems, the metal rods are largely hidden, which is not only aesthetically far more pleasing than having them on show, but also makes entering and exiting the vehicle much easier without banging the knees.

There are various types of mechanical hand controls out there, so if you can’t find what you are looking for, contact us to discuss your requirements.

Adapted vehicles – what are they and how can they help?

The freedom being able to drive affords us allows us to experience the world in a variety of new and interesting ways. From a simple trip to the local grocery store to that much-anticipated vacation, driving gives us the ability to accomplish and enjoy so much more of what life has to offer.

Whilst driving with a disability may seem scary and intimidating, perhaps even impossible, it’s doesn’t have to be. With advancements in vehicle adaptations, more and more disabled can discover, or rediscover, the independence offered by adapted vehicles, either privately or through the Motability Scheme.

What adapted vehicles offer

Adapted vehicles solve a wide variety of challenges for those with disabilities. Car Adaptations can range from simple steering balls to full Drive From Wheelchair customisations, depending on the needs of our customers. After a thorough assessment, Ergomobility will be able to offer the best solution to meet your needs, helping you to confidently operate your vehicle and opening up a whole new world of exploration.

Here are just a few of the adaptations available:Under-ring accelerator

Hand Controls

Hand controls allow people with limited lower body movement to control the adapted vehicle’s accelerator and brake with the use of paddles, rings or levers around the steering wheel.

Left Foot Accelerator

Adapted vehicles with an automatic gearbox and left foot accelerator are perfect for people who have limited movement on the right side of their body, allowing them to use the pedals with a single foot.

Radio RemotesDriving Controls

Radio remotes are particularly useful for people who find it difficult or impossible to drive with two hands and allows access to other in-car controls via a keypad on the steering wheel. These include the radio, air conditioning, windscreen wipers etc.

Radio remotes can also come with a miniature steering function or stick steering which allows you to control the movement of the car within a much smaller area.

Wheelchair Hoists

While driving is the end goal, you first have to be able to enter and exit the vehicle and sit comfortably enough to drive. This is the realm of the wheelchair hoist, which will help to lift either a driver or passenger from their seat into the car.

Swivel Seats

Another accessibility adaptation is the swivel seat, which allows the driver or passenger to unlock the seating position and turn the seat to the side, making ingress and egress a much simpler task.

Drive From Wheelchair

Although one of the more complicated vehicle adaptations, wheelchair driving is also possible for several people. The ability to access the adapted vehicle’s full functionality from your wheelchair means that it will necessitate a larger vehicle with ramp access. However, the benefit is that you won’t need to transition to and from your wheelchair to go for a drive.

The Process

How difficult it will be to learn to drive with a disability is not an easy choice to make and the process can be difficult. Ergomobility is here to help you each step of the way and can provide information and recommendations for each step of the process.

Step one is to undertake an assessment to determine exactly what kind of adaptations you will need to safely operate your vehicle.

If you can find a driving instructor with a suitably adapted vehicle, you could start learning to drive a mobility car straight away. Alternatively, you will need to secure a car with the required changes first (which may take some months).

However, once you are proficient and have your licence, the freedom and independence your adapted vehicle will provide are priceless.

For more information about adapted vehicles, you can contact our friendly and knowledgeable team on 01444 882233 or info@ergomobility.co.uk. Alternatively, head on over to our contact page and fill out the enquiry form.

Ergomobility Sussex
Units 1 – 4, Crosspost Industrial Park,
Cowfold Road, Bolney,
West Sussex, RH17 5QU

Telephone: 01444 882233

Ergomobility Thames Valley
Tylorstown,
Caversham
Reading, RG4 7XW

Telephone: 0118 321 8193

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Ergomobility is a trading name of Equivalent Engineering Ltd. VAT Registered Number 776341117
Company registered in Cardiff number 4321179 Registered office – Units 1 to 4, Crosspost Industrial Park, Cowfold Road, Bolney, RH17 5QU