Ugh just got told I can't drive anymore

[kandeebunny]

at least until I get hand brakes. I can't feel anything in my legs from my knees down, but they work fine.

I'm just frustrated. It's EXPENSIVE to have done, and they suggested I get a new car because my car is older, and it also won't hold a trunk ECV lift that I've been told I need to get as well.

I feel like I am totally losing my freedom, and I'm only 24.

Anyone have any reputable companies for either the ECV lift (trunk style) or converting my car for handbrakes?

 

[WheeledTraveler]

Can you try contacting places in your area that rent/sell adapted vehicles? That way you can possibly try different configurations before deciding on anything. Also, some of them will sell gentle used already adapted vehicles. They may also know places in the area to go to get your car converted or may do it themselves.

One thing to keep in mind is that after you get hand controls, you probably need to retake your license test (the driving part, not sure if they'd make you retake the written) with a new endorsement saying that you use hand controls. I've never seen hand controls that were just brake, not gas as well which is why I'm saying that not just "hand brake".

Also, if you're in school or work and need your car to get to/from, you might want to contact vocational rehab for your state. They may be able to help fund anything that needs to be done so that you can use it.

 

[kandeebunny]

Thanks for the suggestions! This all happened this morning and I am stressed and overwhelmed!

 

[Cheshire Figment]

I can probably have some answers for you Friday. Today and tomorrow are too zooey to give you the answer I would give.

 

[merryweather20]

If you do need to have a new car some of the manufacturers offer cash-back for adaptive devices installed on new vehicles. This is GM's web-site:
http://www.gm.com/shop/services/gm_mobility/reimbursement/

Saturn, Ford, Chrysler, Dodge, Toyota, Lexus, Volvo, and Volkswagen also have reimbursement programs.

 

[dclfun]

As was mentioned if you're working, planning to work, or going to school then contact VR as they can offer assistance for adaptive equipment you need to accomplish one of the above. Using hand controls is a breeze and doesn't even take much training so while it sounds overwhelming, once you get them it should be a huge relief and you'll be right back in the community where you belong, doing as others who are 24 years old.---Kathy

 

[SueM in MN]

 

[BETTYDISNEY]

at least until I get hand brakes. I can't feel anything in my legs from my knees down, but they work fine.

I'm just frustrated. It's EXPENSIVE to have done, and they suggested I get a new car because my car is older, and it also won't hold a trunk ECV lift that I've been told I need to get as well.

I feel like I am totally losing my freedom, and I'm only 24.

Anyone have any reputable companies for either the ECV lift (trunk style) or converting my car for handbrakes?

I just read your post and was wondering if you had found your hand controls? When I needed to buy a wheelchair accessible van (MS)I contacted Easter Seals and they helped me with a 4% auto loan
or they can also help with adaptive equipment.

 

[Momma2dakidz]

my ex used mvp hand controls. He was able to easily install them himself. and they easily transfer to other vehicles. There is no reason you have to go thru all that trouble. heck in fact when he bought a new truck i removed the cotrols from one truck and installed them in the other truck. he bought his used on ebay. do a google search for hand controls and see what you like.

Good luck! Becky