4 Types of Hand Controls for Cars

A wonderful opportunity for people with physical disabilities is to drive their own car using car hand controls. The driver can operate both acceleration and braking using levers that are usually mounted behind the steering wheel. They can be fitted on the left or right side depending on an individual’s preference. The levers are attached to the pedals using rods and mechanical linkages.

Various types of hand controls for cars are available on the market. As a result, you need to speak with a mobility expert to ensure which type you should be able to use smoothly. Let’s check out some types of hand controls for cars for your better understanding.

Push/Rock

Push the handle forward to use brakes and rock back the lever to accelerate. People with no finger dexterity can use this type of control.

Push/Right Angle 

Push the handle upward against the instrument panel to apply brakes and push it down with the right angle to accelerate. Best suited for individuals with minor finger dexterity.

Push/Pull

Push the lever forward to engage brakes and pull it backward to accelerate. Based on the driver’s preference, the grip is sometimes mounted either in a horizontal or vertical position.

It is one of the most widely used types of hand controls in the market. For having greater controls, you can install a three-post hand interface. It allows the driver to keep in contact with the handle constantly. These hand controls are best suited to people with limited hand dexterity.

Over Ring and Push Brake

An additional ring is placed on the steering wheel which works as a replacement for the pedals. You can press on the ring using your thumb or palm to accelerate.

Under Ring and Push Brake

Similar to the over ring, the ring is placed behind the steering wheel. Pull the ring towards the steering wheel to accelerate and push it away to use brakes.

Radial Hand Controls

The operations are similar to a push/pull control. But here the lever is placed behind the steering wheel keeping it closer to the rim. Push the level downwards towards the floor to brake and pull it back to accelerate.

As the lever has more space for mobility here, the accelerator and brake functions are lighter than the regular push/pull controls.

Twist Grip

This type of hand controls has an electronic rotation suitable for quadriplegics. They can operate using wrist flexion or extension for acceleration and push it away to apply brakes. You can also include secondary control buttons besides the main for having a better driving experience.

Related: Hand Control for Cars Review

Choose the best types of hand controls for car for you

If you are new to using mobility aids, get an evaluation by CDRS (Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist). Their evaluation consists of two parts: (i) Clinical Review, (ii) Behind-the-wheel Assessment.

The main purpose of this evaluation is to find a hand control system best suited for you. It depends on your driving style, medical state, and last, but not least, your vehicle’s parameters.

The evaluation process may take a couple of hours to finish, but you can take more time adapting to the devices. After the evaluation, CDRS will provide you with a comprehensive report on your driving, training, and equipment requirements that will help you undergo the selection process of your suitable hand control.

Verified mobility aid dealers will make sure that you are eligible for the specified hand controls seeing the reports. They will ensure that you are provided with the best technology so that you can drive safely with your newly equipped car.

Select the best mobility equipment dealer

Never compromise your safety by buying low-cost third-class devices. Consult with a mobility equipment dealer in your area. Try to get in contact with a renowned authorized mobility dealer. These organizations follow a strict safety maintenance policy as part of their Quality Assurance Program.

Lastly, you should undergo a proper training program and stay cautious to learn the controls perfectly. The hand controls are providing you with great convenience over your transportation system. You’ll be giving that chance away if you don’t learn all the functions. 

Stay safe and never drive recklessly.