Amputee Rehabilitation: Driving After Amputation: Mobility Equipment for Amputees

Published June 29, 2013

After an individual has had a limb amputated, for any reason, a person is typically not able to drive an automobile the same way they did before. However, there are several adaptive devices that can enable an amputee to continue driving and maintain his or her independence. The site of amputation(s) will determine exactly what type of vehicle an amputee is able to drive, and what other types of adaptive equipment will be necessary. Here is a general overview of the various amputations and what equipment might be necessary with each one:

RIGHT LEG

For individuals who have had their right leg amputated, the following equipment is recommended for driving.

Hand Controls
Automatic Transmission
Power Braking

BOTH LEGS

For individuals who have had both legs amputated, the following equipment is recommended for driving.

Hand Controls for brake and accelerator
Spinner Knob
Automatic Transmission
Emergency Brake Extension
Chest Strap

EITHER ARM

For individuals who have had either arm amputated, the following equipment is recommended for driving.

Automatic Transmission
Steering Device
Reduced Effort Steering
Modified Gear Shifter
Modified Secondary Controls (turn signals, dimmers)

Not every vehicle can be modified appropriately, and if the amputee is also a permanent wheelchair user a lowered floor minivan may be their only option.

That is why it is necessary to first be evaluated by a driver rehab specialist and then follow up with a certified mobility specialist to look at all of your adaptive equipment options as recommended by your driving evaluator.

For more information about finding a certified driving evaluator, visit ADED (Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists). They can put you in touch with a certified driving trainer in your area that specializes in working with drivers with disabilities. They will conduct your driving evaluation and then put you in touch with a QAP certified mobility specialist in your area that can then follow up with purchasing options for the recommended equipment.

M.C. Mobility Systems sells and installs all of the above equipment. Set up an appointment to meet with a mobility specialist today and let us help you regain your independence after amputation.

Ann Bransom has worked in the disability industry for over 7 years. Her career has mainly focused on marketing mobility products and services and researching funding sources that will help people with disabilities purchase adaptive equipment they need. Ann Bransom currently works for M.C. Mobility Systems and can be found on Twitter and LinkedIn. M.C. Mobility Systems provides wheelchair accessible vans and other mobility equipment.

Repsol establish an amputee rehabilitation center in Tripoli –