5 Steps to Successful Vehicle Adaptations

2) Select the Right Vehicle or Adaptive Device:

3) Choose a Qualified Entity to Modify Your Vehicle:

4) Receive Training on Your New Device(s):

5) Maintain Your Vehicle or Adaptive Device:

Selecting a vehicle for modification requires collaboration among you, your evaluator, and a qualified vehicle modification dealer.
Take the time to consult with a qualified dealer and your evaluator before making your final purchase. It will save you time and money.

Regular maintenance is important for keeping your vehicle and adaptive equipment safe and reliable. It may also be mandatory for compliance with the terms of your warranty. Some warranties specify a time period during which adaptive equipment must be inspected. These “check ups” for equipment may differ from those for your vehicle. Make sure you or your modifier submits all warranty cards for all equipment to ensure coverage and so manufacturers can contact you in case of a recall.

Even a half inch change in the lowering of a van floor can affect a driver’s ability to use equipment or to have an unobstructed view of the road; so, take time to find a qualified dealer to modify your vehicle. Begin with a phone inquiry to find out about credentials, experience, and references. Ask questions about how they operate. Do they work with evaluators? Will they look at your vehicle before you purchase it? Do they require a prescription from a physician or other driver evaluation specialist? How long will it take before they can start work on your vehicle? Do they provide training on how to use the adaptive equipment?

Both new and experienced drivers need training on how to safely use new adaptive equipment. Your equipment dealer and evaluator should provide information and off-road instruction. You will also need to practice driving under the instruction of a qualified driving
instructor until you both feel comfortable with your skills.

1) Evaluate Your Needs:

Driver rehabilitation specialists perform comprehensive evaluations to identify the adaptive equipment most suited to your needs.
A complete evaluation includes vision screening and, in general, assesses:

Muscle strength, flexibility, and range of motion
Coordination and reaction time
Judgment and decision making abilities
Ability to drive with adaptive equipment

Upon completion of an evaluation, you will receive a report containing specific recommendations on driving requirements or
restrictions, and a complete list of recommended vehicle modifications.

Regular maintenance is important for keeping your vehicle and adaptive equipment safe and reliable. It may also be mandatory for
compliance with the terms of your warranty. Some warranties specify a time period during which adaptive equipment must be inspected.
These “check ups” for equipment may differ from those for your vehicle. Make sure you or your modifier submits all warranty cards for all
equipment to ensure coverage and so manufacturers can contact you in case of a recall.

5 STEPS TO SUCCESSFUL VEHICLE ADAPTATIONS