Fresh Perspectives

Update - Driving with a Disability

Back in July 2009, I wrote about driving with a disability.  Finally, in February 2010, I took delivery of my new van.  After a few minor adjustments, I began using the van for work shortly after.

Driving - at first, I was tentative while driving and really wasn't comfortable with the controls.  I fashioned a removable seat belt which is used to help me maintain just a bit more seating stability while stopping.  After that, I got progressively more comfortable with the controls.  Although the gas/brake is entirely drive by wire, I now have a very comfortable "feel" for the vehicle.  I moved from operating the vehicle to driving it.  Driving has become second nature.

Electronic Problems - I encountered a few electronic problems with the AEVIT system, all of which we have corrected over time.  With a vehicle modification as extensive is this, these problems should be expected.  Remember that there are several vehicles out there that can be modified, and the manufacturer (EMC) is interfacing their own electronics with OEM electronics.  The OEM electronics are different for each manufacturer, and withing manufacturers, they change frequently.  For example, Chrysler changed their electronics in 2008 and again in 2010.  Yet, EMC company stays on top of things and provides software, firmware and other solutions quickly.  Also, Keller Wheelchair Lifts have been giving me outstanding service!  They truly care about what they do, and they understand disability issues.

Moreover, the process was time-consuming and intense, but the results were worth the wait.

If you are going through this process, please don't hesitate to contact me.  I would be happy to help anyone through this or any other disability related issue!

Purpose-Built Accessible Vehicle

This year, the MV-1 universally accessible vehicle is being introduced.  It is intended for the fleet market and is specifically built for the rigors of a fleet duty-cycle.  The base vehicle begins at about $40,000 which includes a 6:1 incline manual ramp and Q-Straint© brand tie downs for all types of wheelchairs.

Although this is purpose-built for fleets, individuals will be able to buy them as well.  Due to DOT regulations, they must include a driver’s seat, and most people with disabilities couldn’t drive the vehicle unmodified.  Nevertheless, this is a gigantic advance in the area of public transportation.  Right now, most public transportation companies can’t afford to incorporate very many accessible vehicles into their fleet.  Hopefully, this will change and vehicles like the MV1 will become part of the public transportation landscape.

I drive a lowered-floor Chrysler Town and Country which was converted by Braun©.  The additional adaptive equipment was installed by Keller Wheelchair Lifts.   This was a van I purchased from a dealer, and the lowered-floor was done afterward.  That is a major process and involves removing the floor from the front of the rear seat to the firewall, then re-structuring the vehicle.  It’s expensive to do this, so a purpose-built accessible vehicle is much more cost effective.  See my prior post about driving with a disability.