Car controls (view report contents)
Secondary controls
Secondary controls are those used for such things as the horn, lights and indicators. Standard secondary controls on some newer vehicles may be easy to use without adaptation. For example, some have push button ignition and remote central locking. Windscreen wipers and lights which switch themselves on automatically are becoming more common. Many cars have controls for audio equipment on the steering wheel, and a few have voice controls.
There are many simple attachments to make secondary controls easier to
use and several systems which bring all the controls together. These can
be fitted and adjusted to meet your individual needs. They can eliminate
stretching and can be used however little strength and dexterity you may
have. They can also be placed so that you don’t have to take your
hands off the steering wheel when you use them.
Individual controls
Switches such as those for indicators, horn and lights are often fitted to hand controls so that they are within easy reach. As a rule of thumb about three can be fitted without running out of space. If you need more you are likely to need a control system (see Combined Controls section).
Indicators
You flip the switch to work the indicators on this
push pull control. It does not cancel automatically so you have to
be careful to remember to switch off after completing the turn. See
section on primary controls
for a picture of a push/pull control with switches for indicators
and a horn
This Brig-Ayd attachment brings the indicator
within fingertip reach. See below for one which allows you to work the
indicators from the other side of the steering wheel
One way of transferring the indicator switch to the other side
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 inreach; levers can just be nudged by an elbow, say. You can fit several touch pads to control as many features as you need.
Some EMC headrests. One 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.
Report Contents
Introduction
Starting
points
Standard
equipment that may help
Some features
you can find on new Cars
Good design
The controls
Seating
Primary
controls
Gripping
the wheel
Other ways of
steering
Controlling
speed
Changing Gear
Parking brake
Pedals
Advanced
controls
Secondary
controls
Combined
Controls
Maintenance
Custom building
Moving controls
Safety
Who can drive
& other useful information
Finance
Helpful organisations
Mobility
Centres
Useful
publications
Addresses
