If you find yourself unable to operate the standard pedals on a vehicle, we can offer push/pull hand controls. These are the most popular driving adaptations: a mechanical device that operates the brake and accelerator on an automatic car. We have these installed on our demonstration vehicle for you to view. If you would like to try them on the road, then we recommend using our local driving instructor, or get in touch for further information.
What Are Hand Controls and Who Are They For?
The hand control is a specifically designed device to allow those not able to use the standard foot pedal to accelerate and brake via hand controls. There are also models suitable for those suffering from some upper body weakness as well.
Hand controls are traditionally in the form of a push and pull lever, although there are also air compression or electronic systems available. There are many different models of hand controls on today’s market. The basic function remains the same across all models with most modern hand control adaptations offering straightforward, light and responsive operation controlled by the hands rather than the legs.
Different Types of Hand Controls for Disabled Drivers
Push/Pull Hand Controls
These are some of the most widely used hand control options and are suitable for most types of automatic vehicles. The conventional foot controls remain in place and can therefore be used normally by other nominated drivers. The basic functions work by pushing forward to brake and pulling back to accelerate.
Floor Mounted Hand Controls
Also suitable for most automatic cars, floor mounted hand controls are installed to the left of the steering wheel with straightforward controls. Pull back to accelerate and push to brake, when the car comes to a stop, the ‘hill holder’ can be used by pressing a button.
Over Ring and Push Brake
This transfers the accelerator control from the pedal to an additional ring positioned over the original steering wheel, the ring can be depressed by the thumb or palm of the hand to activate the accelerator.
Under Ring and Push Brake
Of a similar nature to the over ring hand control, the under ring is behind the steering wheel itself, to accelerate the ring is pulled towards the steering wheel, and to brake it is pushed away.
Radial Hand Controls
Radial hand controls operate in a similar way to the push/pull control, with the lever mounted underneath the steering wheel – the lever is located closer to the rim and is pushed downwards towards the floor. The brake and accelerator functions are often lighter to use than the traditional push/pull operation, as the lever has more room to move.
Our Preferred Manufacturers
Cowal Mobility Aids
Cowal push/pull hand levers are discreetly located behind the steering wheel with the rods hidden behind the dash. Levers are curved allowing drivers to maintain a good grip on the steering wheel. Hand controls are designed for different vehicle makes/years and are extremely lightweight and easy to use.
Jeff Gosling
The push/pull single lever is specifically designed to replicate the feeling of using pedals and is considered lighter and more responsive than some manufacturers, offering the driver a smooth and controlled operation with minimal resistance.
For advice or a trial of hand controls, call All Shropshire Mobility on 01743 790879.