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Adaptive Driving Needs

Driving independence is indeed a significant aspect of life, offering freedom and self-sufficiency. However, various medical conditions can impact this independence, particularly as people age. Conditions such as arthritis, vision and hearing impairments, and neurological disorders like Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis can affect driving abilities. It's essential for individuals and their healthcare providers to regularly evaluate driving fitness, especially when new symptoms or diagnoses arise, to ensure safety on the road for all.

Amputees- arms and legs
Arthritis in the upper or lower extremities
Developmental Abilities
Joint stiffness, joint contractures, reduced grip or sensations
Limited Vision
Low Muscle tone
Multiple Sclerosis
Muscular Dystrophies
Neuropathies with muscle weakness, numbness, reduced sensations, reduced grip
Pain- Chronic pain, Acute pain:
Paresthesia, Paralysis, - Hemi, Semi or Quad
Post Injury, Post Surgical, Progressive muscle weakness
Reduced Range of Motion, Leg Coordination
Spasticity, High Muscle Tone
Spinal Cord Injuries (SCI) Cervical, Thoracic, and Lumbar
Strokes- Ischemic, Hemorrhagic, Transient Ischemic Attack [TIA].

Take a look at these videos from NHSTA on medical conditions and how they can affect your driving.

Driving Rehab Specialists - DRS is not just an acronym

Driving Rehabilitation Specialists play a crucial role in ensuring that individuals with various needs can drive safely and comfortably. We conduct a thorough assessment that includes reviewing medical history and medications, as well as a comprehensive medical exam as per the State of Florida's requirements. If deemed fit, a practical assessment follows, using adaptive equipment tailored to the individual's needs.

As DRS, we understand that selecting adaptive driving equipment is a significant decision that impacts your future. That's why we take a comprehensive approach, evaluating not only your current situation but also anticipating potential future requirements. Our goal is to ensure that the solutions we provide are not just a match for today but will continue to serve you well as your needs evolve. We're committed to working closely with you to identify the options that best align with your unique circumstances and preferences.

Equipment

Adaptive driving equipment is essential for individuals with disabilities, providing them with the necessary tools to drive safely and comfortably. From simple modifications like pedal extenders and steering knobs to more complex systems like hand controls and wheelchair restraints, each piece of equipment is designed to cater to specific needs. These technologies not only enhance the driving experience but also promote independence, allowing individuals to navigate the roads with confidence. With a range of options available, it's possible to customize vehicles in a way that fits the unique requirements of each driver, ensuring they can enjoy the freedom of the open road.

Adapt 2 Drive emphasizes its independence and commitment to professional standards by not affiliating with any single mobility company. This approach allows for a broad collaboration with various mobility companies in the Tampa Bay area, ensuring a diverse range of options for clients. The company's adherence to ADED standards and its policy of not receiving compensation for referrals or equipment underscores its dedication to unbiased service and integrity in the field of mobility assistance.

Your Vehicle - will it accommodate your driving needs?

Selecting the right car for a wheelchair user or someone with limited mobility involves considering several factors. Vehicles with spacious interiors and the ability to accommodate modifications such as ramps, lifts, and hand controls are essential. Minivans and SUVs are often recommended due to their roominess and ease of access.

It's also important to consider the age and mileage of the current vehicle, as newer models may offer more advanced adaptive features that are compatible with electronic hand controls. For those planning to upgrade their vehicle soon, it might be more cost-effective to integrate the purchase of adaptive equipment with the purchase of a newer vehicle.

Check in with your local Mobility Dealer. [See our mobility dealer page] On occasion, an individual may upgrade their existing adapted vehicle for a newer model vehicle with new adaptive equipment. Let them know, Shannan with Adapt 2 Drive recommended you. Adapt 2 Drive can then complete the required evaluation and training needed for your safety and license endorsement

New Drivers of All Ages

Adapt 2 Drive takes the wheel when it comes to driving education, steering clear of the 'pass-the-test-quick' schemes. We're all about the long road, ensuring our novice drivers, no matter their age, are equipped not just with the skills to pass a test, but to navigate the highways of life with confidence. So, if you're looking for a crash course in test-passing, you may need to look at other companies. Adapt 2 Drive is more about the safe journey than the destination.

Our service includes

- **Defensive Driving:** Emphasizing the importance of safety and preparedness on the road.

- **Attention and Focus:** Encouraging drivers to stay alert and attentive to avoid hazards.

- **Scanning for Hazards:** Training drivers to continuously scan the road for potential dangers.

- **Effective Mirror Usage:** Teaching the correct use of mirrors for better awareness of surroundings.

- **Parking Skills:** Guiding through various parking techniques for different scenarios.

- **Right of Way Rules:** Clarifying when and how to yield to ensure smooth traffic flow.

- **Maneuvering Turns:** Explaining different turning methods and their appropriate applications.

- **Road Test Preparation:** Equipping drivers with the skills needed to succeed in road tests.

- **Personalized Learning:** Acknowledging that each student learns differently and adapting teaching methods accordingly.

- **Individual Pace:** Respecting each student's learning pace while providing challenges to foster growth.

We know choosing a driving school is about more than just cost; it's about quality, and that's where we excel. Our driving school is founded on the principles of positivity, compassion, and structured learning, all aimed at building confidence in our students. We take pride in our sincere commitment to providing top-notch training, ensuring that the value you receive far exceeds the price paid. Our ultimate goal is to see our students succeed, and we're dedicated to guiding them safely to their destination – a lifetime of confident driving.

Driving and Aging

Decisions about your ability to drive should never be based on age alone. However, vision changes, physical fitness, and reflexes may cause safety concerns. By accurately assessing age-related changes, you can adjust your driving habits to remain safe on the road or choose other kinds of transportation.

If you’ve noticed changes in your vision, physical fitness, attention, and ability to quickly react to sudden changes, it’s important to understand how these changes may be affecting your ability to drive safely. Driving Safely While Aging Gracefully is a resource developed by the USAA Educational Foundation, AARP and NHTSA to help you recognize warning signs and pick up useful tips on what you can do to remain a safe driver.

One way to stay safe while driving is by making sure you understand how medical conditions can impact your ability to drive safely. Another way is by adapting your motor vehicle to make sure it fits you properly, as well as choosing appropriate features, installing and knowing how to use adaptive devices, and practicing good vehicle maintenance.

Take a look at these videos from NHTSA on medical conditions that can affect driving.

Schedule your Comprehensive Medical Driver Evaluation with Adaptive Device Assessment. You can contact our office at 813.736.4770

Excerpts from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration [NHTSA]

TALKING TO AGING PARENTS

Florida Driving Statistics

Do you think professional driving lessons are expensive? Can you place a value on your loved one? Invest in safe and proper driving skills to prepare your loved one for the ever-changing Florida driving. Our professional services are less expensive than a car acci

dent or loss of a loved one.

Look at other drivers. Do they have bad driving habits, distracted driving, or possibly never have been taught safe driving skills by a certified driving instructor. Don't let your loved one be an unsafe driver like them.

Florida Accident Statistics

License and Permits

Adapt 2 Drive does not provide on-road services to a client who is not in possession of a valid license or permit.

Find a DMV location near you