Tips For Driving As An Amputee

It’s no secret that driving provides a huge source of independence for anyone, but this is especially true for the disability community. A fellow supporter of this website suggested that I share the article, Tips For Driving As An Amputee, to show others that driving is absolutely possible for folks with physical disabilities all thanks to the innovations available to make it more accessible. I felt that sharing this with others would help this community in many ways. For example, I can speak from experience how frustrating it can be to have to rely on others (i.e. friends, family, etc.) or public transportation to take us where we need to go. NYC happens to be quite accessible with public transportation, Paratransit services, and wheelchair accessible cabs. However, I know that people living in less populated areas aren’t as fortunate. A few years ago, I took the opportunity to get evaluated at my clinic so that I could take accessible driving lessons. Once approved, I set up another evaluation, this time with the driving school instructor. He determined that I would drive best with hand controls and a seat cushion to elevate my short body to allow me to view my surroundings better. I took a few driving lessons and felt so empowered knowing that this was possible. Ever since I could remember, I’ve always wanted to drive a car because I grew up with a dad who worked as an auto-mechanic and has a love for cars. Unfortunately, I had to stop the lessons due to financial difficulties. Not only were the lessons expensive, but I knew that the wheelchair accessible vehicle plus the modifications would definitely be too. Some organizations, such as the Spina Bifida Association, offer scholarships to afford the lessons but it would take a lot of time and energy to apply that I didn’t have. While browsing the Richmond Vona, LLC webpage, I discovered that there are other financial assistance options that are worth checking out. That being said, please head on over to the website and do some research for yourself if you feel that this is something you want to work on in the near future. It might be a good New Years Resolution for some of us!  

Link to article:

https://www.richmondvona.com/tips-driving-amputee/

Image Description: Person holding the steering well with both hands, one of which is a prosthetic.

Image Description: Person inside a car with the drivers seat door open and her legs resting outside—one of which is a prosthetic.