Handicap accessible driving is constantly changing and upgrading with the times, as vehicles become more technologically advanced accessible driving aids have been keeping up. For those individuals who have limited mobility from a stroke, medical condition, or amputation many times the easiest solution is to utilize a left foot accelerator. If you are reading this article and are looking to see what accessible driving solutions would work well for you, locate your local mobility dealer at the BLVD. The mobility dealer will help guide you to a service that can explain local regulations that may be required for any adaptive driving equipment you may need.
Left foot accelerators redirect the accelerator pedal to a position on the left side of the brake pedal, allowing someone who has loss of use to their right leg the ability to gas and brake safely. A left foot accelerator may be an appropriate solution for someone with a temporary loss of use as well, but check with your local mobility dealer as some states may require a certification to operate a vehicle with a modified accelerator pedal.
Standard left foot accelerators mount to the floor of the vehicle and usually utilize a guard to prevent the original accelerator pedal from being pressed on accident. With this style it allows for quick removal of the pedal for another individual to drive utilizing the original accelerator pedal. There is a new style that is electronic and does not require removal of any devices. This system is operated with a key, when the key is turned on only the left accelerator pedal functions. When the key is off, the original accelerator functions. This allows only the individual who needs to use the left foot accelerator to take the key with them, which creates a much safer solution when allowing a mechanic or valet to operate a vehicle. Other electronic devices also have a delay system, if the pedal is not depressed in a specified time frame once the vehicle is started the original accelerator pedal will be the only pedal that is activated.
Once it has been determined that a left foot accelerator is the best choice for your mobility needs you will want to have a certified technician install the equipment.
The BLVD can help you locate a certified mobility dealer near you, so you know the equipment is being installed correctly. Vehicle styles for electronic left foot accelerators may vary depending on the year, make, and model of your vehicle; your local mobility dealer will be able to verify compatibility. The world of handicap accessible driving is always changing, and here at the BLVD we strive to keep people informed of those changes!
My professional background stems from non-profit marketing and fundraising for a large children’s cancer hospital. Every day I was able to make connections and relationships for kids and their families going through devastating times. From securing small donations to large corporate support, it was all about providing hope that one day doctors and researchers would find a cure. It was truly an honor to be a part of something so important.
Just this past year, I came to work alongside my family for BLVD.com, a website dedicated to offering the latest information and resources for people needing mobility products. This was a dream come true for me as I have always wanted to combine more time with my family while still helping others. Our family has been in the mobility industry for over 35 years with the goal of enhancing the quality of life for people with mobility issues. This is the spirit behind BLVD and what I am most excited about sharing in my blog.
I love meeting new people and have found that volunteering is the best way to learn more about others and myself. Coffee keeps me going as do walks my pup "Kirby" and most of all being with family and friends. I invite you to check out my blog to learn more about how "together we can move through life better!"
