Handbook Cover Private Vehicle Assistance

Private Vehicle Assistance

Several thousand handicapped drivers travel Connecticut roads daily. Available data strongly

indicates that, as a group, they are safe and careful drivers with lower-than-average accident rates.

Many have learned to drive vehicles that are modified and equipped with special hand controls,

power steering, and lifts with pressurized levers.

 

To assist drivers with disabilities, there are a number of public and private agencies that provide

driver evaluation and training, assistance in vehicle modification, and other services.

 

THE CONNECTICUT DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES (DMV)

The DMV in Wethersfield provides a free driver training program through the Handicapped

Driver Training Unit. The Unit has four specially-equipped passenger cars and a van designed to

accommodate a driver sitting in a wheelchair.

 

An initial screening procedure determines whether an individual has the capacity to drive.

Sufficient reaction time, mobility, and sufficient strength are all essential for a person to enter the

program. An inspector then evaluates, trains, and tests the handicapped individual and will even

go to his or her home or rehabilitation center.

 

The DMV writes an automotive prescription for the newly licensed driver, specifying the exact

nature of the modifications required. State funds may be granted through the Bureau of

Rehabilitation Services to qualified applicants to cover the cost of vehicle modification. For

individuals who cannot drive, a van can be modified to accommodate a passenger using a

wheelchair. For more information contact:

 

Handicapped Driver Training Coordinator

 

THE GREATER HARTFORD

EASTER SEAL REHABILITATION CENTER

The Rehab Center offers a two-hour pre-driving evaluation which helps determine whether it is

safe for an individual to drive and whether an individual is capable of passing the DMV driving

test. If not, some form of rehabilitation therapy may be recommended. For more information,

contact:

 

GAYLORD HOSPITAL, WALLINGFORD

This privately operated rehabilitation facility offers an outpatient driver training program for the

disabled. The program is recognized by the Handicapped Driver Training Unit of the DMV. The

Gaylord staff works closely with that agency.

 

After a pre-driving evaluation, qualified candidates are tested on their ability to use standard hand

controls. Gaylord provides necessary therapy and training, regardless of whether special

equipment is required. For more information, contact

 

 

AMERICAN AUTOMOBILE ASSOCIATION (AAA)

AAA offers an eight-hour classroom course that allows drivers to improve their skills following

training in a hospital outpatient program. The course covers a variety of subjects, such as vision

and perception, communicating, adjusting to speed, learning emergency driving techniques, and

improving safety. AAA will also teach candidates with a slight disability (those who do not

require special equipment such as hand controls) how to drive.

 

Stroke victims and others who have not driven after injury may be tested with an in-car evaluation

of vision, night vision, and reaction time. AAA then provides the driver with a copy of the

evaluation.

 

Call for information on programs, fees, and AAA's "The Handicapped Driver's Mobility Guide."

 

Private Vehicle Assistance

VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS

The handicapped driver's physician may be able to recommend the most appropriate equipment

for vehicle modifications, or may make a referral to companies or rehabilitative agencies within

Connecticut that have had direct experience with vehicle adaptive equipment.

The Bureau of Rehabilitation Services under a state/federal program, seeks to enhance the

self-sufficiency of persons with disabilities and may be able to provide funding for vehicle

modifications to qualified applicants.

For more information on vehicle modification, contact:

 

Vehicle Modifications Consultant

 

 

The major U.S. auto companies from time to time offer assistance in the purchase of adaptive

equipment or rebates on purchases of vehicles to be modified for use by disabled drivers or

passengers. Refer to Information Resources for contact information.

 

MetroPool Rideworks Home Page The Rideshare Company

For more information Email to rwinfo@rideworks.com