Does/has anyone used hand controls? Forums

PeteS

At the moment I use an autoclutch and left foot floor mounted throttle and brake.

It is possible that I may not be able to manage this soon.

So as in the post title is there anyone out there using hand controls and could give some advice from an actual user.

Thanks

Pete

peedee

I suggest you find out where your nearest Disabled Drivers Assessment centre is and ask for their help. They should be able to advise you what the best options are for you.

peedee

ps
A Google brought this up
Norfolk
Kilverstone Mobility Assessment Centre
(Norfolk)
Tel: 01842 753029
Fax: 01842 755950
e-mail:

stevec195

I have driven cars with hand controls for over 30 years, and have driven a Ford based motorhome for the last 2 years. I drive using a manual gearbox, I have a Push/Pull hand control for the Brake and Accelerator, fortunately, I can use my "good" leg on the clutch pedal. The only problem I have is hill starts, the hand brake is an the right, the same side as my hand controls, which makes things a little interesting sometimes, but it is just a case of coordinating everything.
I would agree with the other post, use a centre and get assessed, it may save you from making an expensive mistake.

PeteS

stevec195

Hi

I use my left hand for 95% of the steering, the right hand can be used for steadying the steering wheel, but not much steering input it available.

You learn to drive a little differently, dare I say, a little better sometimes, because you HAVE to be in the right gear for the next bend, it is possible to change gear mid bend, but it can get a little fraught!! Long sweeping corners are no problem, and you can change gear easily.

I intend to subscribe to this forum, I was at Hatton in the CL, while the main group were in the club field, I thought they were a great bunch.

PeteS

Thanks for that Steve, can you still steady the steering wheel while holding the throttle?

As I imagine it the breaking and steering would not be a problem.

My first job is to remove the swivel plate from driver seat and see if I can use my prosthesis on the throttle and brake. If this is possible then there is no problem, if not then I may have to go down the hand controls route.

Is the push/pull directly connected to the pedals? I can see that the throttle may not have to be as this is only a potentionemeter and o cable attached.

Is it possible for an abled bodied person to drive your vehicle?

Thanks

Pete

Wupert

PeteS

Thanks Wupert but the arms and hands are ok it's the legs that are gone.

Hence the title "Hand controls".

Pete

stevec195

It is very easy to steady the steering while accelerating or breaking, the hand controls are mechanically linked to the brake pedal directly, the accelerator is linked by cable to the top of the brake pedal, where it enters the bulkhead.

My partner has no trouble at all driving the motorhome or my car, the normal operation of the pedals is left intact. If you are at the NEC next week, let me know, and I can show you in depth.