Frequently Asked Questions

Depending on your home, there are many depths of modifications you can begin with. From as simple as grab bars in sitting/standing or slippery areas, to modular ramps to your front/back or garage internal doors, vertical platform lifts, stair lifts for staircases (indoor or outdoor), and of course the vast remodels, widening doorways, lowering counters and cabinets, and creating zero entry areas, such as the restroom or other ingress/egress locations. If you aren't given an OT to help with your discharge or rehab, some companies offer free evaluations of your home to help you understand what options are available to you.

Yes, many people do still drive, either from their wheelchair, or by transferring into the driver's seat. In most cases, driving hand controls will be necessary. If you've never used hand controls, you will need to start with an evaluation, which we will cover in its own section. How you get into the vehicle will vary on transferring abilities, the type of chair you have, or upgrading your current vehicle to a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) and using either an occupied wheelchair lift (if you're after a full-size van) or a Ramp Van, which deploys a sturdy ramp out of the side, or rear of a minivan or larger 3-Row SUV, like the Chevrolet Traverse. 

This is an unfortunate, but very real occurrence. We speculate this comes from a relatively medium-high turnover rate within state/governement agencies and some support groups, and doesn't get transferred over to the next responsible party clearly, or at all. We can't speak to hospitals or insurance as much, since we don't often work with them.
Our experience in this situation is simply to help. We won't refer you back to them, or tell you to try again, we find a solution. If you have grant, funding, program questions, in some cases we can guide you, fill in the blanks, or continue to follow up with the agency or group ourselves to get you the answers you deserve. That said, self-advocacy is never more important than these times. If you don't do it, nobody will, unless you ask for help. We're here for you!

While inexpensive hand controls are available online, they’re often unsafe, not properly mounted, and can interfere with key safety features like airbags—posing serious risks. For safe, legal, and customized hand control installation, it’s important to work with a Certified Driving Rehab Specialist (CDRS).

The process typically involves:

1. Initial paperwork, including a physician’s sign-off.
2. An in-person evaluation to assess your driving ability, comfort, and fit for specific hand controls.
3. Test drives or simulations to find the best setup.
4. A formal recommendation sent to an equipment provider for proper ordering and installation.

Note: Most professional dealers won’t install hand controls without proper evaluations, license endorsements, or proof of experience. State laws vary—always check local requirements before proceeding.

Additionally, most insurance providers will not cover the costs of the evaluations, driving sessions, or equipment itself. Check with your provider for eligible equipment.