Equipment Drivers

Equipment Drivers: Frequently Asked Questions
 

• Who would benefit from this program?
  • Individuals who cannot use OEM (factory) vehicle controls may benefit from evaluation to determine if they are a good candidate for adaptive equipment. Common diagnoses include:
    • Paraplegia or quadriplegia
    • Cerebral Palsy
    • Multiple Sclerosis
    • Amputation
    • Neuropathy/other sensory changes
       
• What equipment is available?
  • Sedans: Our sedans are equipped with a variety of hand control options, steering devices, and left foot accelerator. We have access to pedal extensions, turn signal crossovers, and SmartSwitches
  • Mini-van: Our van is wheelchair accessible with a side entry ramp. Individuals can drive from a power chair due to the driver’s seat being removable. We do not have a 6-way power transfer seat, so those needing to drive from a factory seat with a pivot transfer may need to drive the sedan. The van is equipped with hand controls, steering devices, and left foot accelerator. Additionally, the van has reduced effort steering and voicescan technology.
     
• What is the cost?
  • Evaluation costs begin at $300. Training is completed at a rate of $150/hr and there is a 6 hour minimum to achieve proficiency through our program.
     
• What are the requirements?
  • You must complete at least 6 hours of training with the equipment before proceeding with proper licensing and vehicle modification.
  • Easterseals does not install adaptive equipment in vehicles and recommends proceeding with installation through a NMEDA certified vendor. Easterseals does provide the installation information (called a prescription) to the vendor to ensure the proper equipment is installed.

  • Often, our staff is present for a final fitting at the vendor’s site to check for comfort and usability of the equipment.