Driving someone with special needs comes with its challenges that don’t limit the mobility of people with special needs. You need to be aware of a few things before bringing a person with special needs on board your vehicle.
For starters, you need to know if the person you’re driving is comfortable with being in a car. Some people with special needs may be scared or anxious, so you’ll need to consider that. You’ll also need to be aware of their limitations and what you can and cannot do while driving them.
This post will cover the basics of driving someone with special needs and what you should be aware of before you hit the open road.
Different Types of Disabilities
If you intend to drive someone with a disability, you must be aware of the different types of disabilities and how they might impact the person you’re driving around.
There are four main types of disabilities:
Physical disabilities
This covers disabilities that affect a person’s ability to move their body, such as being in a wheelchair or using a prosthetic limb.
Intellectual disabilities
These are conditions that affect a person’s cognitive abilities, such as Down’s syndrome or Autism.
Sensory disabilities
Any condition that affects a person’s ability to see, hear, or feel, such as blindness or deafness, is a sensory disability.
Mental health conditions
Mental health disorders such as major depressive or anxiety disorders qualify as disabilities.
Each type of disability is different, and it’s essential to be aware of how the disability might impact the person you’re driving. For example, if someone is in a wheelchair, you’ll need to check on wheelchair-accessible ramps and parking spots around the pick-up and drop-off spots.
What to Expect When Driving Someone With a Disability
There are a few things you should expect when driving someone with a disability:
– They may have a service animal with them. The animal can sit in the front passenger seat next to the driver.
– They may need help getting in and out of the car. This may mean having to lift them or their wheelchair into the vehicle.
– They may need help with their seat belt. Make sure that they are buckled in securely before starting to drive.
– They may have special equipment, such as a wheelchair or oxygen tank. Be sure to secure this equipment properly before driving.
– They may need to take breaks during long drives. Be sure to plan for these breaks ahead of time so that you can get them to their destination safely and on time.
Tips for Interacting With Someone With a Disability
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when interacting with someone with a disability:
- First, remember that everyone is different. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to interacting with someone with a disability.
- Second, be respectful and use common courtesy. Just as every other human deserves.
- Third, don’t make assumptions about what the person can or cannot do. If you need to ask, do it politely.
- Finally, be patient. Extra time may be needed for tasks that may seem simple to you.
Accessible Features in Vehicles
It’s crucial to ensure that the vehicle you’re using is equipped with the right features to make the experience of people with special needs as comfortable and safe as possible.
Some things you’ll want to look for in an accessible vehicle are:
– A ramp or lift to help them get in and out of the car
– Wheelchair restraints to keep them secure
– Adjustable seating to help them get into the position they’re most comfortable in
Planning Your Route
The route you will take when driving with someone with a disability helps you limit the challenges you might encounter during the ride.
First, you’ll want to ensure the route is as smooth as possible. That means avoiding bumpy roads and potholes. Also, avoid construction areas, as the noise and vibration from construction equipment can be overwhelming for someone with sensory issues.
Second, take into account any particular needs that your passenger might have. For example, if you’re driving someone who uses a wheelchair, ensure that there are accessible parking spaces and ramps along the route.
Third, you’ll want to give yourself plenty of time to make any necessary stops. This includes rest stops for yourself and your passenger and any stops that might be necessary for medical reasons.
By planning your route carefully, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free trip for everyone involved.
Provide the Best Transport Services to People With Special Needs
Driving someone with special needs can be challenging, but it’s also rewarding. If you keep these things in mind, you’ll indeed ensure a successful and enjoyable trip.
Adairs Bus and Van Hire specialises in providing accessible vehicles, so if you’re not sure where to start, reach out to us. We will help you find the perfect car for your needs.