Combined secondary controls
These are specially designed units that bring all the secondary controls together, so you can work them from a single pad or set of buttons. Different models work different numbers of controls. The pad can be fitted wherever you find it easiest. Some use infra red signals so there are no wires to get in the way or restrict where the control is placed. You are likely to need a wireless control if you want it to move round with the steering wheel. The units are powered by disposable or rechargeable batteries. Some can be easily removed.
They are particularly useful for people who have the use of only one hand because everything is in the same place. However, while some people find a combined control easy, you need some dexterity in your fingers and must be able to tell the buttons apart. The control can be mounted on the right or left but if you will be using your less dominant hand, getting used to it can take practice. £800-£2000.
Look for:
- buttons that are well spaced and within easy reach, taking into account the size of your hands. They should be shaped or positioned so that you can tell them apart by touch. Avoid any you could confuse
- useful features, such as systems which automatically turn on the side lights when it gets dark.
Touch controls
These are easy to operate switches which can be placed in whatever position is convenient for you. There are a range of designs and attachments. This, and the fact that their sensitivity can be adjusted, means you should be able to find something to suit you. For example touch pads need just a light touch from any part of the body in reach; levers can just be nudged by an elbow, say. You can fit several touch pads to control as many features as you need.
The picture on the left shows some EMC headrests controls.
One EMC headrest control has buttons for six different controls built into it. You can get headrests with fewer controls. Most people find it difficult to manage more than three - a typical combination might be left and right indicators and the headlight dipper. You would need very good control, good upper body stability and good concentration if you want to use more headrest switches than this. If you are considering headrest controls, an assessment will help you decide what you need
Safety
At first some people need to look at the control to make sure they are pressing the right button. If this means there is a danger of not being able to concentrate enough to control the vehicle, get professional tuition. Practice finding the right button by touch when the car is stationary.
The following illustrations show examples of some of the controls available. Adaptation firms may be able to show you a wider range.
This switch controller is designed for Citron, Peugeot and Renault cars. It is easy to fit. Supplied by Adaptacar it costs from £1,295
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This Lodgeson control uses wireless technology to connect
These eight buttons on the Digipad II Econo control up to 15 features including ignition, cruise control and parking brake.
Digipad II Gold unit
Nearly all secondary controls and an electronic gear selector can be controlled from this Digipad II Gold unit. The screen shows icons (small pictures) which represent each control. You press the button nearest the icon you want.
The unit is powered by the car's battery. It can only be fitted to automatic cars. It can be mounted on a swing away arm to make getting into the vehicle easier.
The control is part of a modular system which can be combined to operate all of the car's controls - steering, acceleration and braking as well as the secondary controls. These controls can be used in different combinations to suit a wide variety of people with very different needs.
Bleeper and tone systems
If you don't have enough dexterity for individual buttons, fit a system which uses a single button to control several functions - the number will depend on the make and model of the unit. When you press the switch, you hear a series of bleeps or tones. Each corresponds to a different control. You press the switch until you reach the one that corresponds to the control you want. For example the fourth bleep may switch on the sidelights. These systems can be combined with touch pads which can be worked by the elbows, knees or any other part of the body. Very little movement is needed. Systems cost from about £750.
Voice control systems
Voice control systems mean you do not need to move any kind of switch. The Digivoice is used in addition to the Digipad II on an automatic car. It will recognise voice commands which can operate up to 18 secondary controls including selecting gears. It is programmed to recognise only one voice so there is no danger of anyone else accidently taking control of the car.
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