Motoring
The joys of motoring - short style
How many people with restricted growth, let alone RSS wish we could go to a car showroom, pick a car we like and pay for it and drive it off the forecourt without a care in the world?
Adaptations
Not only do we have to contend with wondering how we are going to reach the pedals, but also if we can reach to shut the boot.
In the UK, did you know that there is an organisation out there to help guide you on the type of adaptations you need as well as provide funding to pay for them?
To airbag or not to airbag?
An even more dangerous aspect to driving as a person with restricted growth is not just about if we will be able to see over the steering wheel - but actually the airbag. Did you know that you need to be at least 12 inches from the steering wheel in order for the airbag not to cause the driver a fatality? Even if you have had just a minor bump?
In the U.K
Please do get advice from the following organisations before purchasing a car. It can save a lot of time, disillusionment and heartache with car dealerships. Ask right from the beginning if it is ok to have the airbag removed. Some dealerships may say that this ok, but the actual car company will not allow their cars to be tampered with. This might happen even if a car is on the Motability car list (this is known from previous experience, though it was six years ago). You might have to sign a disclaimer to say you will not sue the dealership/car company is question if you have the airbag removed/disconnected.
...and in the 'States
Information is unclear, but according to sources you have to get a form from and further information from the US National Department of Transportation. You need your MD either fill out a form or write a letter stating that it is a health hazard with the air bag. See the 'Further Information' section below for the contact web address. You might also want to contact the Little People of America for help with this and adaptations. (Thanks to the U.S members of the RSS-People online community group for their help with this.)
Further information
- Motability (U.K)
Organisation to help people with disabilities who wish to drive. They provide advice on adaptations needed for driving and help fund any adaptations required from assessment. You can also telephone them on 0845 456 4566. - Ricability (U.K)
Independent research charity. They have created a very helpful guide for getting started with car driving and the things you need to think about if you are person of restricted growth. It also lists other useful disability organisations for reference.
Download the help guide from this page: Motoring with restricted growth » - U.S Department of Transportation (U.S.A)
You can reach information about the airbags via the 'Quick Links > Disabled Drivers and Passengers' or click on the 'Traffic Safety' picture on the front page. On 'Traffic Safety' page there is a link to the 'Disabled Drivers and Passengers' page. If anyone can provide a contact email address or other web resource that you think is pertinent to adapted driving in the U.S - please email the web master with your suggestion. info@rss-people.org.
Disclaimer
Please note RSS-People.org is not responsible for external content.
