Hand Controls for the car

[cheilke]

Hi,

I need to get hand controls for my car (my right leg has thrown in the towel). I am hoping to get some recommendations about what to get and any possible financial assistance available. Thanks.

[Jesmcd2 CommunityAmbassador]

Hi cheilke Welcome back!😊 I'm not sure where to go for info on that.😕 But give mymsaa.org a call at

800 532-7667 ext. 154

And they can point you in the right direction at least.😄 if not come back and I'm sure between 1800 members now we can figure it out😊

Jes 🌠

[rjoneslaw]

@cheilke before you can get hand controls you have to have training.

I told my Neuro I wanted to do it and she set it up for me to meet with the people who does the training.

You also will be told what controls you need and they show you how to use them. Also you can remove them when someone else drives.

I have to admit there is a learning curve but it was fun just the one class I had. The cost was expensive for that company but the department of human services may pay for the controls and set you up with training.

I can't recall if you have to have it noted on your license but I believe you do.

You can go to the site for mobilitylinks to see the different controls they have.

[KarenUSA in reply to rjoneslaw]

My right leg doesn't work well enough to drive a car. I considered hand controls and went to be evaluated. After a meeting, it was recommended that I try driving with my left foot. I had a road test using my left foot in all kinds of traffic conditions. It took some practice, but I've been driving this way for 5 years now. Easier and cheaper modifying a car.

[rjoneslaw in reply to KarenUSA]

@KarenUSA

That is good to know my right leg is the same. No one suggested I use my left leg.

Who tested you and trained you to use your left leg?

[KarenUSA in reply to rjoneslaw]

Most communities have driving programs to evaluate people's skills behind the wheel. Search AAA or AARP. Or contact the agency where you get your driver's license. I recall having to pay about $100 to have a driving evaluation, but it was worth it because I didn't have to modify my car. Driving with my left foot works just fine. Good luck with your search

[rjoneslaw in reply to KarenUSA]

KarenUSA

Thanks I'll go to AAA

[Russso]

Chelike, I had to take a class to learn how to use them it cost about $500 the hand controls and Q-Straint for my wheelchair was about $2500. I tried push /pull and push/rock controls and push / rock was easier to get used to. Unfortunately I could not find any assistance to help pay for that or my van so I'm into it for about $70,000.00 for a Chrysler mini van. There seems to be no finiancial assistence unless your homeless or destitute. They all ask for donations but everyone doesn't get help. Everyone should be treated equally.