Driving?!?

 Okay so the big question that is asked by every client I have worked with is, "When will I be able to drive?" This is completely dependent on what side your amputation was on and whether you lost part of your arm or leg? 

If you have lost part of your left leg and your right leg is fully intact than you are good to drive once your doctor says you are good to go. If you lost part of your right leg than adaptations will need to be made such as a left foot accelerator. 

If you have prosthetics or a loss of both legs than hand controls will need to be looked at. As it is not considered safe to drive with prosthetics as you have lost sensory input through your feet. This allows you to control acceleration and breaking by hand.

If there is an upper extremity amputation than there are a variety of things that may need to be addressed. This would include using turn signals, wipers, turning the steering wheel. Something else to consider is if you will be wearing you prosthetic arm while you are driving. The pictures below show several options for "gripping" the wheel.

Palm Grip

Spinner Knob

Three Pin

Spinner for prosthetic hook component

If you amputation was on the side of you turn signal than they will have you get an adapter to crossover the opposite side of the steering column.

If you are looking at all of this and going how do I know what to get? You don't have to figure it out. There is driver's rehab where you will be evaluated by an Occupational Therapist to see what modifications you will need and to provide you with a certificate stating that you know how to drive with the modifications and paperwork that you will take with you to a location that will properly hook up the components that you need. They will be able to provide you with resources as to where to go to get the recommended adaptions made. 

This is challenging sometimes because of some areas not having a lot of resources, I live in rural Maryland and my patients have very limited options for the driver training and places that are certified to complete the work on their car. These adaptions and training are not covered by insurance so it can also be cost prohibitive, check for possible funding through local and government programs near you.

Best Wishes as you regain your independence and meet your personal goals.