Discover the best hand controls for disabled drivers, offering increased independence and safe vehicle operation. 

From push/pull levers and radial hand controls to electronic accelerators and brake systems, learn which adaptive devices suit different needs and vehicle types. 

Find out which hand controls provide the best functionality and comfort for disabled drivers looking to enhance their driving experience.

Left and Right Hand Controls

Left and right-hand controls are ingeniously designed to be mounted on either side of the steering wheel, allowing drivers who are unable to use their legs to operate the brake and accelerator using their hands. These controls are pivotal for providing increased independence and safety for individuals with physical disabilities who wish to drive.

By pushing or pulling a lever, the driver can smoothly control the vehicle's speed and braking, mimicking the natural motions of foot pedals. The design ensures that the transition from foot to hand control is intuitive and straightforward. These hand controls are adaptable and can be customised to fit different vehicles and driving preferences, ensuring that each driver receives a personalised and comfortable driving experience. Options may include various lever lengths, positions, and grip styles, allowing for precise and effortless control.

Furthermore, modern hand controls are built with durability and reliability in mind, ensuring long-lasting performance and safety. Installation of these hand controls must be performed by trained professionals to ensure proper function and safety compliance. Once installed, drivers can undergo specialised training to become proficient in using the new controls.

This training helps to build confidence and ensures that drivers can safely and effectively operate their vehicles. Left and right-hand controls offer a practical and essential solution for drivers who need an alternative to traditional foot pedals due to physical limitations. They provide a seamless way to control vehicle speed and braking, helping to maintain independence and mobility for disabled drivers.

Push/Rock Controls

Push/rock controls are a widely used type of hand control designed to offer a comfortable and efficient driving experience for people with limited hand strength. They function through a simple mechanism: by pushing forward on a lever, the driver can accelerate; by rocking the lever back, they can brake. 

This minimal movement makes it easier for users who may not have the hand strength required for other types of controls. The ergonomic design of push/rock controls is a key feature that helps prevent fatigue, particularly during long drives.

The lever is often positioned in a way that places minimal strain on the hand and wrist, allowing drivers to maintain a relaxed grip and reducing the risk of discomfort or pain over extended periods. There are various types of push/rock hand controls available, and they can be installed in a range of vehicles to meet different drivers’ needs. Some models are designed to be universally compatible, while others are tailored for specific types of vehicles or particular driving conditions.

The adjustability and customisation options ensure that each driver can find a solution that suits their specific requirements and preferences. The installation of push/rock controls needs to be carried out by a qualified professional to ensure that they are fitted correctly and safely. Proper installation guarantees that the controls function as intended, providing a reliable and secure driving experience.

Moreover, regular maintenance and checks are recommended to keep the controls in optimal condition. Aside from ease of use, safety is a crucial aspect of push/rock controls. The design takes into account the need for quick and responsive braking and acceleration, which can be critical in emergency situations.

This ensures that drivers can react swiftly and effectively to any hazards on the road, maintaining their safety and that of others. In summary, push/rock controls offer a practical solution for drivers with limited hand strength, combining an easy-to-use mechanism with an ergonomic design to enhance comfort and safety. Their adaptability to different vehicles and the importance of professional installation highlight their role in providing dependable driving aid.

Electronic Controls

Electronic hand controls are an excellent solution for disabled drivers, offering enhanced convenience and safety. These systems allow users to operate braking and accelerating functions through electronic means, typically using buttons or a joystick. This design is particularly beneficial for individuals who need minimal physical effort to drive, making it a suitable option for those with limited hand or arm strength.

One of the key advantages of electronic hand controls is the precise control they offer over the vehicle's movements. This precision can significantly improve the driving experience, providing a smoother and more responsive operation compared to traditional mechanical controls. These systems can be installed in a variety of vehicles, from small cars to larger vans, and can be customised to meet each driver’s specific needs, ensuring optimal comfort and usability.

In addition to ease of use, electronic hand controls also contribute to overall road safety. By reducing the physical strain on the driver, these systems enable better focus and quicker reaction times, which are crucial for safe driving. The ability to tailor the controls to the individual also means that they can be adapted to cater for various disabilities, making driving more accessible to a broader range of people.

With technological advancements, these systems continue to improve, offering even greater levels of convenience and reliability. As a result, electronic hand controls are becoming an increasingly popular choice among disabled drivers who seek independence and mobility without compromising on safety or control.

Steering Knobs

Steering knobs are mounted on the steering wheel to assist drivers in steering their vehicles with one hand while the other hand operates the acceleration and brake controls. These devices are particularly useful for drivers with limited mobility in their arms or hands, enabling them to maintain greater control and safety while driving. Steering knobs are available in various shapes and sizes to cater to different needs and preferences, making steering easier and more efficient for many users.

The principal function of steering knobs is to allow smoother and more manageable steering with minimal effort. This is especially advantageous for individuals with disabilities or conditions that affect their upper limb strength and dexterity. By providing a firm and ergonomically designed grip, steering knobs ensure that drivers can manoeuvre their vehicles with greater ease and confidence.

In addition to their versatility in design, steering knobs are also known for their ease of installation and removal. They can be quickly attached to the steering wheel and just as easily removed, providing convenience and flexibility for different users.

This feature is beneficial for drivers who may need to switch between vehicles or share their vehicle with others who do not require the use of a steering knob. Overall, steering knobs offer a practical solution for enhancing vehicle control and safety for drivers with limited mobility. By selecting the appropriate shape and size, users can find a steering knob that best suits their individual needs, thereby improving their driving experience and ensuring a safer journey on the road.

Joystick Steering

Joystick steering is a modern and innovative solution for disabled drivers. This system replaces the traditional steering wheel with a joystick, allowing the driver to control the vehicle’s direction, acceleration, and braking all from a single device. The joystick can be customised to suit the specific needs and comfort of the driver.

This type of control provides an unprecedented level of independence and ease of use, allowing more people to drive comfortably, even if they have severe physical limitations. Joystick steering systems have several benefits. First, they provide precise control and require very little physical effort.

Traditional steering wheels might be challenging for those with limited mobility or strength, but joysticks can be operated using minimal force. This makes driving accessible to people with various physical conditions, ensuring a safer and more comfortable experience.

Additionally, the customisation of joystick controls is significant. The joystick can be adjusted in terms of sensitivity, position, and shape to match the driver’s preferences and capabilities. For example, a person with limited hand movement might benefit from a joystick with larger dimensions and less resistance, while someone with more strength might prefer a smaller, more responsive joystick. Another important aspect is the integration of joystick steering with other vehicle controls.

Many systems allow for the operation of indicators, lights, and horns via the joystick, reducing the need for multiple controls spread around the vehicle’s dashboard. This further simplifies the driving process, making it more inclusive. Safety is a key consideration in the development and implementation of joystick steering systems. These systems are rigorously tested to ensure they provide reliable control in various driving conditions.

Under the Mobility Scheme, these adaptations can be fitted for no extra cost. 

MotorHome Towbars provide cars, scooters, wheelchairs and more, so if you're interested, please reach out to us, and we can adapt your motor for your disability.

Are you looking for disabled car controls in Lincoln And Lincolnshire? We have a huge range of adaptations available and would love to discuss this with you.