Learning to drive for disabled people is virtually the same process as it is for the able bodied, with a few extra considerations. In your daily life, depending on the severity and nature of your disability, you are used to facing challenges, this being one more! If you’re anything like me it will bring you so much pleasure as you enjoy the frill of the open road. I’m sure that it will be even greater for you with the independence driving brings. Just think you will be able to drive yourself shopping to places like Portsmouth, Fareham and Southampton!

Is it difficult? Many people in your position have passed their test. There is plenty of help out there from disability organisations and the Government. I would suggest that you get as much advice as you can, talk to your healthcare professionals about your abilities and they will put you in touch with disabled organisations.

Most of the information available on the One Way Driving School website applies to you also,(www.onewaydrivingschool.org) but here is some extra information you will need:
Starting learning to drive

The minimum age for most people is 17, but if you get Disability Living Allowance at the higher rate which includes the mobility component, you can drive at 16. You may also be able to get financial support for lessons from motability scheme if you are between ages 16 and 24.

Learning to drive, vehicle tax:

Depending on your existing classification for the purposes of the Disability Living Allowance, you may be entitled to a free tax disc. You can apply for an exemption certificate from the agency that issues your benefit.

The vehicle must be registered in your name, or in the name of someone you nominate to drive for you. The vehicle must only be used for your purposes. If it ends up being used by the nominee or someone else for their own purposes, then you will lose the exemption. If you have a vehicle under the motability scheme, this is sorted out for you.

Driving accessories for the disabled:

You may have to make adjustments to your existing vehicle, or you can apply for one through the Motability scheme.

There are a number of ways an ordinary vehicle can be adapted to suit your needs, including:

For operation:

Hand controls for the accelerator and brake

Wheelchair hoists, ramps and tail lifts

Rotating seats

Adapted steering wheels to help you get a better grip

Mirrors

Cushions and back support

People lifts

Extra safety belts and harnesses

Automatic transmission

Controls connected to the steering wheel

There are numerous other adaptations which can be made, including movement of foot pedals and other controls

For Access:

Wider doors

Swivelling and sliding aids

Hoists

Dropped kerb – apply to your local authority

Taking the Tests:

Most of the information already on the One Way Driving School website will apply to you, but there are a few things you might have to take into consideration:

The Theory Test

It is sensible to advise the DSA of your specific needs when you apply for your test.

Most public buildings (which include test centres) now have full disabled access by law. If you are unable to attend the local centre, then arrangements can be made for you to take the test at home.

If you are deaf or hearing-impaired, arrangements can be made to watch the relevant video part of the test with sign language.

The Practical Test

Your test will be the same as an able-bodied driver, but again, you need to let the DSA know of any special requirements when you book your test. Driving examiners have been given training to understand the particular needs of various disabilities. Be open about what you can and can’t do. Your driving instructor would not have advised you to put in for your test if he/she thought you

weren’t capable. If you suspect you are being discriminated against by the examiner, report him/her to the DSA.

Parking & Access

When driving long distances, like other drivers, you need to take a break now and then. Most motorway services now have excellent access and disabled parking.

You should apply for a Blue Badge which gives you free parking. Of course there are places (e.g. leisure centres, supermarkets, places of entertainment) which have their own designated disabled bays. These are controlled by the site owners but sadly are open to misuse. If it is impractical to complain there and then, ring the relevant owner and let them know.

Make sure you keep your Blue Badge safe – unfortunately there is now a strong ‘black market’. When you leave it on display, be extra careful that the vehicle is secure and the badge is not easily dislodged.

And remember to do your homework, if your new freedom allows you to drive to places you have never been before, check out beforehand where the disabled parking is, what facilities the town has. With a small amount of planning, you can be free to go where you wish!

I have pasted some links below which I hope you will find useful.

http://www.motability.co.uk/main.cfm

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/disabledpeople/motoringandtransport/dg_4001061

http://www.disabledmotoring.org/

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/DisabledPeople/MotoringAndTransport/index.htm

I hope this has been of help to you. If you have any further queries please do not hesitate to contact me.

If you would like to discuss any of these matters or even book some lessons please feel free to call me on 0800 1123 978. We offer lesson in Fareham, Gosport and Portsmouth.