Several adapted vehicle questions

[aitch10]

Hi! We're looking into getting a Volvo SUV with a hoist in the back and hand controls.

My questions are:

I only need the hand controls for when I'm a)stuck in traffic and b) in a flare, but I'd like to be able to use foot controls most of the time. Are adapted vehicles an either/or deal? Like just hand controls or just foot controls, or is there a switch?

It mentioned on the website that there is a test provided to determine what adaptations are best suited to you. Is that test necessary? I already know what I need adaptations for and why.

How easy is it to return adapted vehicles to their original state? I like the idea of passing on whatever car I get to DS - in 14 years - but would like to have it be a normal car.

Thanks!

[kmallory1]

The hand controls are mechanical. There are long rods from the hand controls to the pedals. When you push forward with your hand to brake, it actually pushes the pedal. You can drive the car with either. My husband drives normally, I use hand controls.

Depending on the laws in your state, you may have to be evaluated by a licensed professional as to whether you can use hand controls. Then you may have to have lessons and pass a driving test with them.
Mobility companies in Georgia will not sell and install hand controls without this.

It is not recommended to switch back and forth. Much of driving is reactive. You need to always brake the same way so that your split second reaction will be to use the correct method. One of the evaluation points in the driving test was whether I moved my feet to the pedals or whether I consistently used the hand controls.

Hand controls can be easily removed.

A hoist installation will involve cutting a hole into the floor of the cargo area of the SUV. When the hoist is removed, that floor area will need to be replaced. A body shop should be able to do that.

[lori]

We had hand controls and a lift device put on our used minivan for me. My husband used the pedals when he drove it. That was @15yrs ago and it cost $700 for the hand controls and $1200 for the lift. I'm sure they could be removed. Not sure how a new vehicle would work, but I'm sure the Volvo reps would know.

good luck,
lori

[STEVEP]

I have been using Monarch controls for about 15 years. I probably have driven about 600,000 miles while using them. We have them in both vehicles, and have moved them when we bought a new vehicle.

They are very easy to use. They have only failed once, and that is when a rod diconnected in the accelerator, the vehicle was parked.

[mfog023]

I have been using hand controls since the 1990's and have driven many of miles. Currently, my controls are on a Honda CRV and I have had no problems. I remember that one of the vendors I used to have the controls put in the car told me that when I buy a car make sure and check that how and if the controls will work in a particular car/model.

All of my controls have been similar to the one described in a prior post. I have lived in 3 states and in all 3 there was a law which did not allow the pedals to be removed. The car must have the ability to be driven using both the hand and foot. My husband drives my car and uses the foot pedals successfully. He does at times hit into the springs but he is tall with long legs. It is no big deal.

I started in NY and there I need an pre-evaluation by a vocational rehab. specialist who pre-certifies drivers for hand controls. On the back of my license I have listed the restriction of hand controls so I am not sure if legally you can switch. Can not speak to changing between both but it does not sound like a good idea.

Good luck and let me know how it goes. If you buy the Volvo I would love to know the experience of installing and using the hand controls in it. It is my future car.

[Paralegal1]

I have a 2001 Chevy Venture. Got it used, so installed hand controls and scooter lift. Total cost for both installed was $1500. Small price to pay to be mobile.

[GGritz]

I need to get hand controls after a particularly bad week, where I had difficulty braking and moving my LE. After getting my pump adjusted I'm doing a little better and feel like I could drive. But told myself no more driving until I get the controls. Went and picked out basic hand controls for the left side. My son then freaked me out saying it may be hard to getting and out of the drivers side. Is this a difficulty for anyone else?

I know this is the right decision getting into a small accident ( only myself involved) but would never forgive myself if I hurt someone!

Help!

[toot2818]

Originally Posted by GGritz

I need to get hand controls after a particularly bad week, where I had difficulty braking and moving my LE. After getting my pump adjusted I'm doing a little better and feel like I could drive. But told myself no more driving until I get the controls. Went and picked out basic hand controls for the left side. My son then freaked me out saying it may be hard to getting and out of the drivers side. Is this a difficulty for anyone else?

I know this is the right decision getting into a small accident ( only myself involved) but would never forgive myself if I hurt someone!

Help!

Yes getting hand controls will be a good thing I had then put in last summer and I an very happy. My husband has no real problem getting in or out of the car. Wisconsin DMV required me to get training and equipment had to be installed by approved dealer. I then had to re-take my driver's test. That was an experience after driving 40+ years.

You better check out your states requirments. Good luck,

Toot

[mfog023]

I have used hand controls for many years also beginning in the 1990's. Living in NY City, I had to be evaluated by a trained person and then provided lessons by an instructor who has a car with controls and is trained in training others. That was also the car I tested. Living in 3 states now I can say that in all it is illegal to not having working foot pedals. My husband drives my Honda CRV with no problems though does at times hit the springs due to his long legs similar to another poster. Installers don't always use the same make of hand controls so beware and find out what is offered prior to using a particular installer. Lastly, check with the car manufacturer as some with pay to have the controls installed as well as the controls themselves. Honda has a program that does just that.