High level driving aids enable you to drive the vehicle with advanced, power-assisted controls to steering, braking and acceleration with limited effort.
Drive On Therapy provides high level driving assessment and capacity building services together with Freedom Motors Australia and Total Ability.
High level driving aids provide alternative methods of steering, braking and accelerating not seen with conventional equipment. They provide the ability to control the vehicle with limited movement and effort. High level driving aids are typically paired with a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) where the individual can access and drive the vehicle from their wheelchair.
Thorough off and on-road assessment is required to consider the need and ability to operate high level driving aids. Multiple on-road assessments are typically required to determine the most appropriate positioning of equipment for the driver. High level driving aids typically require further customisation from the vehicle modifier to meet the unique needs of the individual.
Access to the vehicle is normally provided by a ramp or platform lift. Access could be from the rear or side of the vehicle.
Both methods of access are power operated in combination with the opening of the vehicle tailgate or side doors. Every person will have their own preferences and needs that will be thoroughly assessed to determine the most appropriate method of access.
Yes, although the number of seats in the vehicle will depend on the method of access. For most people, the floor of vehicle needs to be lowered to provide appropriate head clearance. The lowering of the floor and need for circulation space results in losing some seats.
A van with side access will normally retain the rear row of seats, so you can take up to 4 other people with you providing the front passenger seat is retained on an elevated seat base.
Vehicles with rear entry normally require removal of all seats in the second and third row of the van. This provides more circulation space within the vehicle. Additional seats can be added such as using fold down mechanisms in some vehicles.
When driving from a wheelchair, the standard drivers seat is removed and replaced with a wheelchair docking system. A wheelchair docking plate is fitted to the bottom of your wheelchair, enabling the wheelchair to lock securely into the docking mechanism that is mounted to the vehicle floor. The wheelchair docking system is unlocked by use of a switch, within reach.
A wheelchair docking system replaces the need for tie down points and is an essential component to drive the vehicle from a wheelchair. Not all wheelchairs can accommodate a wheelchair docking system. We recommend speaking with your wheelchair manufacturer, supplier and vehicle modifier to confirm compatibility.
A list of compatible wheelchairs with the DAHL Engineering docking systems can be found online: Approved wheelchairs and manuals – DAHL Engineering.
Everyone’s driving journey is unique, so is the equipment that supports it. Here you’ll find the wide range of adaptive driving technologies we use to help you drive safely, comfortably, and with confidence.
From hand controls and spinner knobs to voice commands and wheelchair docking systems, we’ll help you discover what works best for your needs and goals.
The Freedom brake and accelerator is designed for drivers with limited limb function and strength, requiring only 100 grams of pressure to brake.
It combines power-assisted brake and accelerator functions in one unit, which can be custom mounted to suit the driver’s needs and paired with advanced steering controls, such as the mini wheel, 2-way joystick or foot steering.
The foot steering uses the same technology as the mini wheel. It is designed to allow the driver to turn the steering wheel from left to right using a forward and backward pedal motion with their foot.
Additionally, it can be configured like the mini wheel in any position within the footwell to ensure optimal operation for the user.
The mini wheel enables people with limited arm mobility to control the steering wheel with little wrist movement. It consists of two main components: the mini wheel and the mechanical drive unit, which work together to mimic the smooth action of a traditional steering wheel.
The device uses electronic sensors to send signals to the mechanical drive under the dashboard, and it can be installed on either side of the driver without altering the original steering wheel.
Voice control is designed for people unable to operate physical buttons or switches. The system uses voice prompts to activate the vehicle’s auxiliary controls (indicators, headlights, windscreen wipers and much more).
The unidirectional microphone captures only the driver’s voice, filtering out other unwanted sounds in the vehicle.
The joystick control is the most sophisticated assistive driving equipment for individuals with limited physical abilities.
2 and 4 way options are available. 4 way joystick control allows drivers to manage the steering, braking, and acceleration using just a wrist or foot movement.
2 way joystick control can be fitted just for accelerating and braking, or steering. The system can be installed on either side of the driver, providing full functionality.
Discover how our tailored occupational therapy driving services can help you gain your independence and get back on the road with confidence. From fitness to drive assessments to vehicle modifications and capacity building, we offer a complete range of support designed around your unique goals and abilities. Explore what’s possible with Drive On Therapy.
We’d love to hear from you.
Whether you’re ready to get back on the road or simply have questions, we’re here to help.
At Drive On Therapy, we’re passionate about supporting your journey toward independence through personalised driving assessments, vehicle modifications, and capacity building.
Reach out today and let’s talk about how we can help you drive again, safely and confidently.
