The ultimate pedal modifications guide
Pedal modifications are innovative adaptations that can be fitted to your car to overcome a variety of driving challenges due to reduced mobility. Enabling those who are otherwise unable to operate the standard pedals to regain their independence behind the wheel.
In our guide, we explore what pedal adaptations are available, who they can benefit, safety considerations and more.
Understanding individual needs
Car pedal modifications can benefit individuals with a range of disabilities that affect their ability to use conventional pedals.
These can include lower limb amputation, paraplegia, quadriplegia, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis and arthritis. In most cases, car pedal adaptations which reduce the amount of pressure needed to operate the pedals will allow people with these disabilities to drive safely and comfortably.
To find out what type of pedal adaptations you require, you can book a disability driving assessment where an experienced occupational therapist and approved driving instructor will conduct a thorough assessment to understand your needs and capabilities.
Types of pedal modifications
To suit a variety of individual requirements and capabilities there are different types of pedal adaptations available.
Left foot accelerators
For drivers unable to operate the standard accelerator pedal with their right foot, an additional accelerator pedal can be fitted to the left of the brake pedal to allow operation with their left foot.
Hinged accelerators
A hinged accelerator pedal creates room to rest your right foot while operating the car with hand controls. The accelerator pedal is folded safely out of the way to eliminate the risk of the pedal accidentally being operated.
Pedal guards
Pedal guards are another important safety adaptation for hand control drivers. The guard is placed in front of the foot pedals to prevent them being pressed accidentally.
Pedal extensions
Pedal extensions offer a solution for users whose legs are unable to reach and operate the vehicle pedals effectively by bringing the pedals closer to the driver, ensuring a safe and comfortable driving position.
Installation and Usage
Our range of pedal adaptations have been designed for safe and reliable driving and should only be used for its intended purpose.
They can be fitted into hundreds of different cars ranging from hatchbacks, people carriers, SUV’s and others. Although specific vehicle compatibility and suitability is always advised to ensure your preferred solution will work for your vehicle.
Safety & legal considerations
Some people are unaware that if you need adaptations to control a vehicle, you must inform the DVLA, as codes must be added to your driving licence. The report following your driving assessment will outline these codes, ensuring you are legally licenced and insured to drive with the pedal adaptations.
It’s also extremely important to ensure you operate the pedals as per their instructions and intended use. For example, with a left foot accelerator it’s crucial to ensure the right pedal is not accidentally pressed whilst the left pedal is in use. To overcome this, all of our left foot accelerators have a built in prevention system, either; the right pedal flips safely up and out of the way, is protected by a pedal guard or is electronically deactivated when the left pedal is in use.
Resources & support
There is support at every stage throughout the process of getting your pedal modifications, from the driving assessment centre through to your adaptations supplier and installer as well as driving instructor who can provide extra driving tuition. They are all here to provide advice and guidance to ensure you can return to driving safely and comfortably.
With a variety of pedal modifications, you can retain your independence and continue to enjoy the freedom of driving. Speak with our team online or call 0800 288 4422 to find out how we can help you get back on the road with confidence.
Explore our full pedal modifications range to find out further information on our mobility aids including pedal extensions and left foot accelerator pedals.