Driving with a Disability - What You Should Know

Living with a disability doesn't mean the end of your driving career. It can be a challenge, but with the right resources, you can get behind the wheel and stay on the road. Having the right vehicle and with some adaptations, you can make driving work for you.

If you're a disabled driver in the United Kingdom, there are a few things you need to know concerning driving with a disability. In this article, you will learn about:

• The disability laws in the UK
• Ways to make driving easier as a disabled driver
• Tips for driving with a disability
• What's a Blue Badge permit?

What are the laws around driving with a disability?

In the UK, the Equality Act 2010 states that disabled people cannot be treated less favorably than non-disabled people when it comes to getting a driving licence. Being a disabled person, you should meet the following criteria to be eligible for driving:

1. You should inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) about your disability.
2. You should be able to read a car number plate from 20 meters away.
3. You should have an assessment with a qualified medical practitioner to see if you're fit to drive.
4. You should be able to demonstrate that you can control the vehicle safely.
5. You should be able to see in all directions while driving.

How can disabled users make driving easier?

Technology has come a long way, and there are now many ways to make driving easier for disabled drivers. Specialised vehicles can be fitted with controls that allow drivers to operate the car without using their hands. Other adaptations include hand controls, pedal guards, and left-foot accelerators.

Several apps and devices can be used to make driving with a disability easier. For example, the myditto app allows users to control their cars from their smartphones. The app includes features like hands-free calling, music control, and GPS navigation.

What are some helpful tips and tricks for disabled drivers?

• Invest in a good quality hand control. This will make it easier to operate the car without using your hands.
• If you have a disability that affects your vision, make sure to get regular eye check-ups.
• Consider using a Sat Nav system to help with directions.
• Plan your journey and allow extra time for rest stops.
• Make sure you're comfortable behind the wheel before starting to drive.
• If you're using a wheelchair, consider investing in a wheelchair-accessible vehicle.

What is a Blue Badge permit?

A Blue Badge permit is a special badge that allows disabled people to park their cars in designated disabled parking spaces. The badge must be displayed on the windscreen of the car so that parking wardens can see it.

To be eligible for a Blue Badge permit, you must have a disability that affects your mobility. You can apply for a Blue Badge permit by filling out an application form on the Gov.UK website.

To summarise, if you're a disabled driver in the UK, there are a few things you need to know. The laws around driving with a disability are outlined in the Equality Act 2010. There are many ways to make driving easier for disabled drivers, including using specialized vehicles and installing adaptations. Disabled drivers can also apply for a Blue Badge permit, which allows them to park in designated disabled parking spaces.