Tag Archives: hand controls

Amputee Driving Controls South of Boston, MA

VMi New England and Automotive Innovations promotes full implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and other legislation which guarantees full participation in society for all people, regardless of disability. We are dedicated to helping with motor vehicle modifications to meet the needs and concerns of amputees.

Support:

We will do our best to provide motor vehicle mobility solutions and resources for people who have experienced the loss of a limb and those involved with their lives. We are a supplier and installer of handicap and amputee driving devices.

Driving after Amputation: Automotive Mobility Equipment for Amputees
Driving after amputation is possible with the right equipment and vehicle modifications

After a limb has been amputated, for any reason, a person is typically not able to drive an automobile the same way they did before. However, there are several adaptive devices that can enable an amputee to continue driving and maintain his or her independence. The site of amputation(s) will determine exactly what type of vehicle an amputee is able to drive, and what other types of adaptive mobility equipment will be necessary. Here is a general overview of the various amputations and what equipment might be necessary with each one:

VMi New England and Automotive Innovations Bridgewater, MA has installed the following amputee driving equipment for over 25 years:

RIGHT LEG

•Amputee Left foot gas pedal
•Hand Controls
•Automatic Transmission
•Power Braking

BOTH LEGS

•Hand Controls for brake and accelerator
•Amputee Spinner Knob
•Automatic Transmission
•Emergency Brake Extension
•Chest Strap

EITHER ARM

•Automatic Transmission
•Amputee Steering Device
•Reduced Effort Steering
•Zero Effort Steering
•Zero Effort Brake
•Modified Gear Shifter
•Electric Gear Shifter
•Electric Parking Brake
•Modified Secondary Controls (turn signals, dimmers)

Not every vehicle can be modified appropriately, and if the amputee is also a permanent wheelchair user a lowered floor minivan or mobility van may be their only option. That is why it is necessary to first be evaluated by a driver rehab specialist and then follow up with a certified mobility specialist to look at all of your adaptive equipment options as recommended by your driving evaluator.

VMi New England and Automotive Innovations sells and installs all of the above equipment.
Set up an appointment to meet with a mobility specialist today and let us help you regain your independence after amputation.

From the Department of Veterans Affairs: Automobile Adaptive Equipment (AAE)

The Automobile Adaptive Equipment (AAE) program permits physically challenged persons to enter, exit, and/or operate a motor vehicle or other conveyance.

Veterans are trained, through the VA Driver’s Rehabilitation Program, how to safely operate their vehicle on our nation’s roadways.

The VA also provides necessary equipment such as platform wheelchair lifts, UVLs (under vehicle lifts), power door openers, lowered floors/raised roofs, raised doors, hand controls, left foot gas pedals, reduced effort and zero effort steering and braking, and digital driving systems.

Additionally, VA’s program provides reimbursements for standard equipment including, but not limited to, power steering, power brakes, power windows, power seats, and other special equipment necessary for the safe operation of an approved vehicle.

PDF application for adaptive equipment

Automotive Innovations has a substantial inventory of wheelchair accessible vans in Bridgewater, MA, and would be happy to set up a time for a demonstration. Every day is a Abilities Expo just south of Boston with access to factory direct inventory of hundreds of wheelchair vans in every make, model, and color available.

The Left Foot Accelerator, like model 3545S, is an accelerator pedal for persons with limited or no use of the right leg requiring them to drive with their left leg. It is equipped with a guard to prevent the driver from inadvertently resting their right foot on the accelerator pedal. The Left Foot Accelerator incorporates a quick release mechanism and is easily removable without tools.

LFA The (LFA) was designed for the driver that has lost control of only his right foot.

Left Foot Accelerator By Automotive Innovations is a leader in design & quality. The (LFA) is extremely adjustable allowing it to be used in virtually any vehicle. The (LFA) is also equipped with a quick disconnect allowing (LFA) to be released and removed from the vehicle when not in use. Only the mounting plate is permanently mounted to the floor.

A left foot accelerator pedal device which allows persons lacking sufficient functionality of the right foot or right leg to operate a motor vehicle accelerator pedal using their left foot. The device incorporates an accelerator pedal activator which engages the motor vehicle accelerator pedal and is operable attached by a main shaft to a left side accelerator pedal. The main shaft is supported by a base unit which is removable attached to a base plate affixed to the vehicle floor. By depressing left side accelerator pedal a person lacking functionality of the right foot may operate the vehicle while the device may be easily removed from base plate allowing a person of normal functionality to operate the vehicle.

Automotive Innovations is New England’s premier mobility controls dealer. A Quick Release Left Foot Gas Pedal with Pedal Guard allows the driver to accelerate with the left foot. This pedal is installed on the left side and is mechanically linked to the original manufacturers pedal. The Pedal Guard shields the original pedal thereby making it inoperable. This quality crafted pedal is fully adjustable. The lightweight design of the pedal along with its quick release feature makes it quick and easy to remove and install, as the Left Foot Accelerator Pedal with Pedal Guard slides in and out of a base that is bolted to the floor. This makes the a Left Foot Accelerator Pedal with Pedal Guard is a smart choice.

Pedal Extensions

Automotive innovations gas and brake pedal extensions adjust to allow 6″ to 12″ or longer if necessary of extended reach. Made of durable lightweight aluminum or steel, Pedal Extensionsprovide comfortable driving after installation. Pedal Extensions fold down out of the way to allow other persons to operate the vehicle. Pedal extensions must be installed by authorized dealers. They fit most American cars and vans. Call now for more information on price and available appointment times.

Left Foot Gas Pedal

Designed for people with limited or no use of their right foot, the quick release left foot gas pedal enables those drivers to utilize their left foot for gas operation. The pedal can be installed in any vehicle with an automatic transmission. No adjustments are necessary after installation, and the unit can easily be removed to allow other drivers to operate the vehicle. A pedal stop is part of the unit, and will not allow the right foot to inadvertently apply throttle.

Block Pedal Extensions

Our pedal extensions are fabricated from structural aluminum tubing with a non-skid surface. They have adjustable slots for two stainless steel clamps that go around the gas and brake pedals (can also be modified for clutch pedal extensions). Standard sizes range from 1″ to 4″ high. This is a semi-permanent installation.

Custom Foot Pedal Extensions

Automotive Innovations carries a full line of custom gas, brake, and clutch pedal extensions for all driver’s needs.

Left-Foot Gas Pedals:
Your vehicle can be modified to allow you to use your left foot to control the gas pedal. This modification is designed for quick installation and removal so your vehicle can be shared with other drivers not in need of this adaptation.

508-697-6006

info@VMiNewEngland.com

How to adapt your new or pre-owned vehicle to meet your needs after a stroke

How to adapt your pre-owned vehicle to meet your needs after a stroke

Easy Car Makeovers for Adaptive Driving

CAN I DRIVE AFTER A STROKE newenglandwheelchairvan.com

Driving after a stroke is often a major concern for survivor’s and their loved ones. It prompts many questions about ability, safety and vehicle options. Often times, the physical disadvantages that result from stroke can compromise a survivor’s ability to operate their vehicle.

Advances in the vehicle modification industry have introduced new driving controls that are giving independence back to stroke survivors that want to drive. They allow them to get back behind the wheel in their own vehicle to go where they want to go, when they want to go.

Innovative vehicle modifications such as hand controls, left-foot accelerators, lifts and mobility seating can transform your personal vehicle into a vehicle that give you more freedom.

Mobility equipment dealers strive to remain at the forefront of the vehicle modification industry by providing cutting-edge technology and a full selection of adaptable equipment for your pre-owned vehicle.

Hand Controls For Stroke Survivors with Limited Use of their Feet

Automotive Innovations is New England’s #1 hand control installation facility manufacturer of hand controls and driving aids for the disabled. Hand control systems are specifically designed to give drivers the benefit of controlling a vehicle with both hands on the wheel making for a safer, smoother driving experience.

Unlike other manual and or servo hand control installers in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, we have the ability to offer a custom fitment to your vehicle and you, for everything from a Fiat 500 to a Lamborghini Aventador no one else has the master craftsman, machining equipment and facility capable of performing a custom installation the way we can.

Push Rock hand controls have a handle in a vertical position; accelerating by rocking back in an arching motion using the fingers and/or the palm. There are several additional options to choose from:

Spinner knob: Attached to the steering wheel to allow controlled steering with use of one hand.
Single Pin: As an alternative to the spinner knob, this hand control was designed for clients that cannot open their hand fully.
Tri Pin: Great for an independent driver. It requires minimal gripping strength and/or reduced wrist stability.
V-Grip: This attachment is intended for drivers with moderate gripping strength.
Steering Wheel Extension: This device is individually customizable, so you can pick a diameter and height that best suits your needs. The easily removable device is completely compatible with any OEM steering wheel.

Servo electronic mobility controls offers driving control products that are safe and provide piece of mind every time you are on the road.

Lever A gas/brake input with adjustable levels of force and travel from the full gas to the full brake position. It is designed for customers that have a wider range of motion and a larger effort level.
One handed steering and gas brake A input that you can steer that is available in a two-axis configuration for gas/brake and steering It has a adjustable range of motion and very low levels of force to operate. It is designed and custom build for each customers specific range of motion and abilities.
Wheel A steering input that can be adjusted to less than 2 oz of force at the proper orthotic position of 3 3/8” from center. It is also able to be adaptable for customers that have a wider range of motion.

Left-foot Accelerator

Automotive Innovations offers the best left foot gas pedals with unmatched installations. Left-foot accelerator are designed to offer a left foot gas pedal which acts exactly like your vehicle’s existing gas pedal. Our Left foot gas pedals are removable with features like a quick-release base so the entire assembly can be removed and re-installed quickly and easily.

Lifts for Stroke Survivors that use Wheelchairs or Walkers

Automotive Innovations can offer more solutions for the transportation of your mobility device than any other dealership in New England.

” Its worth the drive, I live in the western part of Massachusetts and will never trust my van with anyone other than Automotive Innovations. They have been taking care of me and my vans since 1996. When a company comes through for you time and time again whats that worth? For me it’s priceless and the drive is irrelevant.”

Chris P Whately, MA

Scooter & Wheelchair Lifts while are not always practical they do work in all types of vehicles. These fold-down wheelchair and scooter lifts make lifting and storing your manual folding wheelchair or scooter possible.

Mobility Seating

The mobility transfer seat is an innovative system for lower vehicles which can provide easer access to an automotive seat. The seat power rotates out over the doorsill, bridging the gap for a safe transfer onto the seat. These seats are not always practical for every type of vehicle

Our goal is to match your lifestyle and your vehicle with equipment that will deliver independence.

Finding a Dealer That’s Up to Standards

Hand controls, left-foot accelerator, lifts and mobility seating offers opportunities for the stroke survivor to regain their mobility freedom in their pre-owned vehicle. You have just found the best mobility dealer in all of New England that offers a ever evolving selection of adaptable equipment.

It is important to select a reputable dealer to provide the adaptable equipment and installation for your pre-owned vehicle.

Are they members of the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) or another organization that has vehicle conversion standards?
Are they Quality Assurance Program (QAP) certified?
Do they provide ongoing service and maintenance?
Do they provide 24/7 emergency service?
Do they provide training on the adaptable equipment?
Can the equipment be transferred to a new vehicle in the future?

Adapting pre-owned vehicles provides stroke survivors with mobility freedom in the vehicle they love and are familiar with.

By: Jim Sanders, VMi New England

The Importance of Servicing Your Wheelchair Van and Adaptive Equipment

''VMi New England's Indoor Showroom" 1000 Main Street Bridgewater MA 02324

Located at 1000 Main Street in Bridgewater MA.

The Importance of Servicing Your Wheelchair Van and Adaptive Equipment

Owning any type of vehicle means that you have to commit to regular service and maintenance to keep it in good condition. Owning a wheelchair van and adaptive equipment is no different – you still need regular service to keep everything operating the way it should. However, it comes with some additional caveats – you can’t just go to any service center and ensure that you’re maintaining your wheelchair van or mobility equipment correctly.

Here at Automotive Innovations, not only do we understand the importance of maintaining your mobility vehicle and adaptive equipment, but we take the needed steps to ensure that everything is always in top condition. No other mobility dealer I know of offers the level of maintenance offered by us.

For example, we can maintain primary and secondary driving controls, as well as providing service for wheelchair and scooter lifts. Power seat bases, power door operators, wheelchair securement systems and other adaptive equipment are only a few of the areas that our certified technicians can service and maintain.

You’ll also find that we offer installation as well as service for a range of adaptive equipment like lowered floors, raised doors, adaptive steering controls, turning automotive seats and hand controls. All of our technicians are fully certified in mobility equipment so that you always know you’re in good hands with us.

Automotive Innovations has also created a innovative and ever evolving maintenance program over the past 25 years for our customers. We know that making sure your vehicle and adaptive equipment is in good condition is important to you, but we also understand that it can be difficult for you to tell when or if something needs service or repair. That’s why we started our operational preventative maintenance program over 20 years ago. This program ensures that your wheelchair van or mobility equipment is always in the best operational condition possible, but also assesses the need for repairs or replacement most of the time before anything happens.

We’re dedicated to giving you the peace of mind that you deserve and the maintenance you need to maintain your freedom at all times.

Three Questions to Ask Your Mobility Consultant about Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles

When beginning your search for a wheelchair van in MA, RI, CT, VT, NH & ME, it is important to know which questions to ask your Mobility Consultant. This could be the first time that you are going through this process, and VMi New England and Automotive Innovations wants you to have a memorable experience.

2012 Dodge Grand Caravan CR121019 Inside Front Right Veiw View

We encourage your questions to help make purchasing your wheelchair accessible vehicle enjoyable and educational. Here are five of our most frequently asked questions proposed to our Mobility Consultants.

Do you have a service department for wheelchair van repairs?

Our technicians are highly trained and certified and are able to handle any problems you may have with your wheelchair accessible van. By adhering to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), becoming a Quality Assurance Program (QAP) facility, Automotive Innovations has shown its dedication to improving the quality of life for people with disabilities every day.

Can I test drive a wheelchair accessible vehicle before I purchase one?

Yes you can! Our “Try Before You Buy” program means that you can test out our vehicles before you make your purchase, so that you can determine which vehicle will suit your needs. Please contact us for more details.

How do you determine which wheelchair accessible vehicle will be right for me?

Our consultants take every step to get to know our customers to ensure that you purchase the right wheelchair accessible vehicle for you. Our Mobility Consultants go through a detailed step-by-step process to learn about your specific needs in order to get you the proper wheelchair van type, size and modifications to your wheelchair van.This mobility update has been brought to you by Vmi New England and Automotive Innovations your Bridgewater, MA New England NMEDA Mobility Dealer – Need some information on how to make your vehicle wheelchair accessible or upgraded with the latest and most convenient features?

Jim Sanders is one of of the most experienced people in the country at building High-Tech driving equipment and vans for passengers and individuals who drive from a wheelchair. He offers a unmatched practical and theoretical foundation in the application of vehicle modifications for individuals with disabilities. With over 25 years experience, he continues to spearhead new and exciting technological advancements in this growing and emerging market.

Shoppers in Search of a Dodge Wheelchair Van Near Boston, MA Save on Models with Mobility Sales Event

Shoppers in Search of a Dodge Mobility Van Near Boston Save on Models with Sales Event

2012 Dodge Grand Caravan Front Seat wheelchair View

2012 Dodge Grand Caravan Rear Left Side Veiw

2012 Dodge Grand Caravan Rear Right Side View

Shoppers in search of a new Dodge Wheelchair Van near Boston will have the opportunity to save on 1999 – 2013 and 2014 models at VMi New England. The dealership is celebrating the out of this world sales event, giving shoppers the opportunity to save tons!

Shoppers seeking a Dodge near Boston can take advantage of savings that are out of this world! VMi New England is celebrating the Out of This World Sales Event right now. If you’re in the market for a new Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram, Ability vehicle check out the Mobility vehicles available at the sales event!

The Sales Event is going on now at VMi New England. If you’re in the market for a Dodge Mobility Van near Boston, take advantage of the incredible savings available right now!

Shoppers looking to take advantage of Out of This World savings should visit VMi New England today. Some of the most popular models are available at incredible prices, including mobility equipment for the Jeep Wrangler, Ram 1500, Dodge Charger, and Chrysler 300. If you are looking to upgrade, accessorize or buy, now is the time to save at VMi New England.

Shoppers at VMi New England Enjoy Savings That are Out of This World

Shoppers seeking a Dodge near Boston will receive Out of This World savings on mobility equipment like hand controls, left foot gas pedals and spinner knobs for the 2012 Jeep Liberty, 2013 Jeep Wrangler, Dodge Dart, Chrysler 200, Dodge Avenger, Jeep Patriot, Dodge Journey, Ram 1500, Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Charger, Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, Dodge Grand Caravan, Ram 2500, Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Chrysler 300, Dodge Challenger, 2014 Jeep Compass, and Jeep Grand Cherokee.

With low monthly payments, shoppers at VMi New England will certainly get their money’s worth at the Sales Event! If you’re shopping for the long term, not a problem! We’ve got Out of This World savings for all of our shoppers. With savings up to $10,000 on left over and used wheelchair vans as well as special financing offers, you won’t want to pass this deal up.

Visit us today to save on the new Dodge Mobility Van you’ve been dreaming of. For more information about VMi New England online at newenglandwheelchairvan.com or call 508-697-6006 today!

email us at info@newenglandwheelchairvan.com

Dodge Families In MA Are Thrilled With The 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan

May 18th, 2013

VMi New England, a leading Dodge Mobility dealer in MA, is proud to announce that the 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan is the best-selling and most-awarded minivan! Offering a spacious and comfortable interior, impressive entertainment features, and great safety, the 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan is perfect for Massachusetts families.

The 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan is available at five different trim levels, including the Grand Caravan AVP, the Grand Caravan SE, the Grand Caravan SXT, the Grand Caravan Crew, the Grand Caravan R/T. All five 2013 Grand Caravan trim levels feature a 3.6L V6 VVT engine with the choice between a six-speed automatic transmission or an AutoStick automatic transmission.

The 2013 Grand Caravan receives an EPA estimated 25 mpg highway, and offers seating for up to seven passengers. All of the trim levels except for the Grand Caravan R/T offer cloth low-back bucket seats. The 2013 Grand Caravan R/T features leather-trimmed bucket seats. The Grand Caravan R/T also offers power driver and front passenger seats and a two-way power adjustable driver lumbar support. Thanks to foldable seating, the 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan offers up to 143.8 cubic feet of cargo capacity, perfect for fitting everything you’ll need on a family roadtrip!

The 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan also offers a number of entertainment features to keep the family occupied on long drives! Available entertainment options include a 6.5-inch touch screen display, a 40 GB hard drive, audio jack input, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and Uconnect featuring a CD player, DVD player, and MP3 capabilities.

Impressive Safety Features

The 2012 Grand Caravan was an IIHS Top Safety Pick, and there are many great safety features included in the 2013 Grand Caravan to give you peace of mind when driving around your most precious cargo. The 2013 Grand Caravan comes standard with seven airbags, including front multistage airbags, a driver inflatable knee-bolster airbag, front seat-mounted side airbags, and side-curtain airbags in all rows. It also features active front head restraints, Electronic Stability Control, Roll-Resistant tires, and other accident-avoidance measures. The 2013 Grand Caravan also includes impressive security features, including keyless entry with immobilizer.

For more information about the 2013 Grand Caravan, visit the VMi New England website or call (508) 697-6006. VMi New England offers a full line-up of new Dodge mobility wheelchair accessible models, as well as used vehicle options from a number of different automotive brands.

Posted in VMi New England

2012 Dodge Grand Caravan Trunk Open Seats Up View

2012 Dodge Grand Caravan Steering Wheel and Dash View

2012 Dodge Grand Caravan Steering Wheel and Dash Side View

2012 Dodge Grand Caravan Inside Front Right Veiw View

2012 Dodge Grand Caravan Inside Front Left Veiw View

2012 Dodge Grand Caravan Inside Back Right Veiw View

2012 Dodge Grand Caravan Inside Back Left View View

2012 Dodge Grand Caravan Front Seat View