Why choose hand controls
When the body’s condition changes, it doesn’t mean the rest of life has to. For those individuals who have lost the use of their lower limbs, there are a number of adaptations we can fit to enable driving with the hands, instead of the feet. Learning to drive with adaptations is relatively simple and can make all the difference in terms of retaining personal independence.
Considerations
The majority of controls can be fitted as either a left, or right-handed adaptation – and most mechanical hand controls are designed for use in a vehicle with an automatic gearbox, so this is an important consideration when thinking of choosing a car.
Our products
Ergomobility are independent adaptations specialists, which means that we have no ties to any specific manufacturers. We only ever select our products based on 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.
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 a 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.
Push/pull hand controls
Push/pull hand controls are operated by pushing and pulling a lever that is fitted to one side of the steering wheel. The brake is controlled by pushing the lever away (towards the front of the car) and the accelerator is controlled by pulling the lever inwards, towards the driver’s body. The vehicle can still be driven using the pedals if desired, as these are not affected and remain intact.
The push/pull systems we fit are the very best on the market – and we always select the modern ‘Discreet’ control systems wherever possible.
Related adaptions: Steering balls, Pedal guards, Other pedal adjustments, Remote control devices
Radial hand controls
Radial hand controls provide an alternative solution to push/pull hand controls for drivers who experience problems gripping with their hands. Like push/pull hand controls, the brake and accelerator are controlled using a lever system which is operated by the right hand. The brake is still controlled by pushing the lever away (towards the front of the car) but the accelerator is controlled by pushing the lever downwards (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.
Related adaptions: Steering balls, Pedal guards, Other pedal adjustments, Lightened power steering, Remote Control devices
Floor mounted push/pull hand controls
Floor mounted controls are operated by pushing and pulling a lever that is mounted on the floor of the vehicle, to the left-hand side of the steering wheel. The brake is controlled by pushing the lever away (towards the front of the car) and the accelerator is controlled by pulling the lever inwards, towards the driver’s body. The operating hand sits low down, by the thigh, which makes these controls a good option for drivers who find it difficult to hold their arm upright for prolonged periods of time. Getting in and out of the vehicle can also be a lot easier with these controls than with some other systems, due to their positioning (near the centre console).
The vehicle can still be driven using the pedals if desired as these are not affected and remain intact.
Related adaptions: Steering balls, Pedal guards, Other pedal adjustments, Remote control devices
