Vehicle Modifications

Table of Contents

Virtual Seating, Position, Mobility, and Vehicle Demonstration

For more information, please contact Amy Woods, Occupational Therapy Assistant, at amy.l.woods@okstate.edu or 405-744-7734.

Key Takeaways

What is Assistive Technology (AT) for Vehicle Modifications?

  • Vehicle modification refers to changing a vehicle by replacing, adding, or removing a vehicle’s components/systems.
  • Equipment may be installed to enable an individual with disabilities to access and/or drive the vehicle.
  • Adaptive equipment, or AT, for vehicles is a device needed by a person with a disability to drive, enter, exit, or be transported safely.
  • Examples include seats, grips, handles, and ramps to assist in entering/exiting the vehicle; devices to assist with buckling and unbuckling the seat belt; hand controls for braking and/or accelerating; modified steering controls; adjustable driver’s seats; and automatic door openers.

Common No-Tech and Low-Tech Vehicle Modification AT Solutions:

  • Using some common household items, individuals may be able to safely make handles/grips to assist in getting in/out of the vehicle and other supports to ease with buckling/unbuckling.
  • Due to safety issues, it is advised that vehicle modifications should be completed by an experienced and reputable modified vehicle dealer.

Who, When, and Where is AT for Vehicle Modification Appropriate?

  • This AT is appropriate for individuals who want/need the independence of driving, entering, exiting, or being transported safely in a vehicle.
  • AT for vehicle modifications is needed when conducting a comprehensive evaluation to find the adaptive equipment most suited for an individual’s needs and medical condition.
  • This AT is appropriate for individuals with disabilities to use during driving exams and once the individual has passed the written and practical components of the exam.
  • Vehicle modification options depend on the type and severity of the person’s disability, role/function in the vehicle (whether passenger or driver), and whether the vehicle can accommodate the needed modification.
  • People who have upper body and/or lower limitations in strength, range of motion, and/or coordination may need vehicle modifications to drive. Anyone who needs to access their vehicle from a wheelchair will need vehicle modifications.

Why is Vehicle Modification AT Important?

  • A modified vehicle allows a person to stay more independently connected to the community and complete meaningful daily activities.
  • People with physical disabilities have unique challenges to driving, entering, exiting, and being transported safely that may be overcome with AT for vehicle modification.

Situations for Vehicle Modification AT:

School Environment

  • Commuting to/from school
  • Attending field trips
  • Commuting to off-site class buildings
  • Attending extracurricular activities

Work Environment

  • Commuting to/from work
  • Attending off-site work/lunch meetings
  • Leaving for lunch breaks/errands
  • Attending evening work events

Home Environment

  • Traveling to family reunions/birthdays/gatherings
  • Attending baby showers and other holiday get-togethers

Community

  • Traveling to a doctor’s/financial appointment
  • Going to the grocery store, farmers market, gym
  • Visiting a friend’s house
  • Attending church, concerts, movies, theaters, fairs

Case Studies

Commonly Asked Questions about Vehicle Modification AT:

  • Q – Can people with disabilities drive?
    • A – All states allow people with disabilities to obtain a driver’s license unless the disability would inhibit the safe operation of a vehicle.
  • Q – What are common vehicle modifications?
    • A – The most common modifications are hand controls, steering aids, clutch conversions, seat belt modifications, custom seating, lifts, ramps, automatic door openers, remote switches, pedal extensions, space modifications, and wheelchair carriers.
  • Q – What if the need for a modified vehicle is temporary?
    • A – Modified vehicles are available to rent in Oklahoma. Please refer to Oklahoma ABLE Tech’s Core Program Partners, MobilityWorks at 918-622-8400, Newby Vance Mobility at 405-276-5062, and United Acesss at 405-842-0511 or 877-501-8267.

   AT Solutions at Oklahoma ABLE Tech:

Visit Oklahoma ABLE Tech’s Short-Term Loan Inventory

Visit Oklahoma ABLE Tech’s Vehicle Modifications and Transportation AT/DME Reuse/Exchange Inventory

Helpful Links and PDF Resources:

Guides and Articles:

Video/Webinar/Podcast Resources: