At present, 1 in every 4 Americans is living with a disability, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While it can certainly be challenging for individuals with disabilities to navigate daily life, limited mobility, however, does not put a damper on the passion a true BMW enthusiast has for their cars. Although merely viewing beautiful cars can be fulfilling, driving is important to anyone that wants to maintain a degree of independence. Thankfully, there are a number of vehicle accessories available on the market that will make a classic BMW more disability-friendly. Not only can accelerating and braking be made easier, but steering and even getting in and out of the car can be simplified for people with disabilities.
Simplified speed control
One of the biggest obstacles faced by drivers with disabilities is the use of the accelerator and brake pedals in a car. By installing an electronic accelerator your BMW instantly becomes more accessible. There is a wide range of accelerator and brake models, such as ring and trigger, available _ most of which are controlled with minor finger movements. For drivers who are still able to use the conventional pedals but have trouble reaching them, a simple extension of the pedal will make a world of difference in terms of comfort.
If you have limited mobility in your right leg, it is also possible to install a left-foot accelerator that is a simple, portable device that easily be moved from one vehicle to another. This is one of the easier and also more budget-friendly modifications available to make a car more disability-friendly. Affording some of the bigger modifications may depend on an individual’s ability to earn an income or on the availability of disability compensation.
Steering doesn’t need to be a difficult
Any BMW enthusiast knows that it steers like an absolute dream. An individual with mobility concerns may, unfortunately, need a bit more assistance in order to safely steer their beloved car. Thankfully, there are a number of technologies that can be utilized to make a vehicle easier to steer. A steering wheel ball can be fitted to give the driver more control over the car and comes highly recommended if other hand controls are also installed as it makes a lot easier and safer to steer the car with one hand. Other steering wheels adjustments that won’t alter the appearance of the vehicle include steering column extensions, steering spinners, and a deep-dish steering wheel.
Small modifications make a big difference
Apart from modifying the steering, acceleration, and braking of a BMW, there are also a range of other modifications that can make it easier for a person with mobility concerns to drive. While newer-model cars can be fitted with one-touch direction control buttons, extended indicator arms can benefit those with limited upper-body mobility, significantly. Other useful modifications include swivel seats that make it easier to get in and out of the car, especially for wheelchair users. Other worthy investments to make includes adapted mirrors, adapted seatbelts, electronic windows, and keyless entry to the car.
Being able to drive contributes greatly to the independence of a BMW enthusiast with mobility limitations. Thankfully, there are many great technologies that can be utilized to allow drivers with disabilities to pursue their passions and stay safe on the road.