Pros & Cons of Handicapped Driving

Handicapped or physically disabled people are able to drive through special modifications to their vehicles. A system is rigged to help the disabled person use functions of the car their disability may not allow. For example, someone without the function her legs may use hand controls to adjust the accelerator and brake.

Expense

• The expense of rigging a car for a disabled person is quite high. For a disabled person on a budget, this expense may be more than he can afford. The cost varies with the complexity of the disability and person's motor control. As of 2011, some rigs can easily cost over $100,000 for people with very limited physical function.

Mobility

• The increased mobility of being able to drive can help handicapped people tremendously. The person has increased freedom to come and go as he pleases. The handicapped person is less reliant on others and he saves time by not having to wait for rides or bus services.

Danger

• Not all handicap driving rigs are of the same quality. Some rigs are homemade, while others can be of sound design and quality. The variance in quality can be a cause for concern. If the rig becomes damaged or breaks while driving the driver loses control of the vehicle, this can be extremely dangerous.

Confidence

• Perhaps one of the greatest benefits for the disabled being able to drive is it increases their confidence and self reliance. The act of driving is something that the able bodied take for granted and when a handicap person can drive, she realizes that there may not be as many limits on what she can do or achieve.