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Spinal cord injuries can affect loss of movement and sensation to different degrees and therefore returning to driving will be different for each individual.
A spinal cord injury in the back will most likely result in paraplegia and affect the movement and sensation of the lower half of the body, especially the legs.
The most common adaptation to consider if use of the legs is limited is a hand control. This adaptation converts the brake and accelerator pedals to be operated using the hand. When having this adaptation installed, there are many optional extras which may also be beneficial.
A transfer plate may also be helpful for assisting with transfer into the vehicle as this adaptation helps to bridge the gap between a wheelchair and the seat. Some people would also have a sill protector to prevent damage to the vehicle when approaching in a wheelchair.
A spinal cord injury in the neck will most likely result in tetraplegia and affect the movement and sensation in the arms and the legs as well as the core. It may still be possible to drive but complex adaptations would be required.
In all instances, we would recommend an assessment by a driving assessment centre to determine the best way for you to drive. We can also discuss adaptation options with you to provide information around the types of adaptations you may want to try when visiting an assessment centre.
When having any driving adaptations installed, we would always advise an automatic vehicle. Some adaptations can only be installed into an automatic vehicle.
We would always recommend advising the DVLA and your insurers if there is a change to your driving circumstances. If you have a spinal cord injury, you must notify the DVLA and your insurers.
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