3 years ago I was in an accident that left me without the use of my legs. It took a while, plenty of rehabilitation and mental and physical adjustment but life returned to a new state of normal. Whilst I continued to work, spend time with my family and socialise with friends, I missed being able to drive. If I ever wanted to go anywhere I would have to depend on someone else, work to their schedule and that’s not me. I like my freedom too much.
6 months ago I go my hands on a wheelchair accessible vehicle and I haven’t looked back!
When I tell people who don’t know me or who have never seen an accessible vehicle before they are slightly baffled and very intrigued.So I explain…. I control everything with my hands. From breaking to accelerating, I do it all with my upper body. My car is specially adapted for all of my needs. Everything from how I start the engine to the angle of the air conditioning has been taken into consideration and adapted for my needs. Controlling a car with just your upper body can actually be quite tiring, and you get very hot even on a brisk autumn day.
I have to admit before I got my car I was sceptical as I had visions of my options just being a range of huge, outdated bricks of cars but after rolling into the dealership I was pleasantly surprised. The car I have is a contemporary looking Peugeot Tepee, silver with plenty of room inside for the kids and all their stuff. My kids love it and are completely in awe of my ‘magic steering wheel.’ My wife even jokes with them that I’m like a Captain on a ship. To be to an outsider it does look pretty complicated a melange of knobs and buttons but once you get used it; it’s like…well driving a car.
My wheelchair accessible vehicle is now as vital to me as my chair. The possibilities are endless, I have the freedom to do what I want and when I want to alone or with the family.
If you live in the Sussex or Surrey area and are in the market for an adapted vehicle then contact Southern Mobility Vehicles on 0330 555 9999.
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