Driving with Disabilities - Tips for a Smooth Journey

Living with a disability or a loved one who has a disability takes a learning curve on several levels. Driving can be an exceptional challenge in some cases, but it certainly doesn't have to be.

Most of the time, it's not a matter of if what can drive, but how one can drive with a disability. 

There's a way to manage that will get you and your family and/or friends back on the road safely. With some time, dedication, and maybe with the help of renting a handicap van, the sky's the limit!These are some surefire tips for a smooth journey. 

1. Practice

Whether you're driving to transport someone that has a disability or vice versa, practice makes perfect. Plan out non-stressful times to get the hang of driving and moving. 

Make a practice route that covers essential driving skills like stop signs, lights, left turns, etc. It's also important to practice driving for a while, so make sure you set aside a good amount of time for driving. 

On top of this, practicing getting in and out of the car will make your trips a lot smoother. It may feel awkward at first, but once it feels like second nature, you'll be glad you practiced so much.

2. Patience

Patience truly is a virtue. Driving as a person with a disability can be frustrating and new, especially if you've been able to drive without a disability before. 

Affirm yourself for the new steps you are taking to live your life on your own terms. Patience is also important when transporting someone with a disability who may not be used to being in a car or being driven by you. 

Trust your skills and put your passengers before yourself. 

3. Accessible Transportation

Finally, there's ensuring access to accessible transportation. Sometimes that means leasing a handicap van or renting a handicap vehicle. 

In those cases, planning ahead will only continue to help you since you'll want to make sure you have enough money for the vehicle. Then, you'll also want to have it for enough time before your trip so that you can practice loading and driving it. 

It can be tedious and difficult, but only at the beginning. And the pros definitely outweigh the cons when it comes to this decision because it means increased accessibility for you or those you care about most. 

From Practice Routes to Renting a Handicap Van

Just like that, you've got a few simple tips for driving with a disability. Whether you're set on renting a handicap van or even owning one full time, you'll be on your way to road trips and essential travel without any drama. 

BraunAbility is here to meet all your needs concerning accessibility. From finding the perfect wheelchair to properly considering outdoor ramp installation, you can be sure you're getting the right tips with us. 

So what are you waiting for? Start exploring all that BraunAbility has to offer and truly start living your best life today.