One of the greatest frustrations our spinal cord injury clients
report to us is their loss of independence.
Transport and vehicles are an essential tool in redressing the balance
between pre and post accident life, whether to attend social events, school/college,
work, medical appointments or just a trip to the shops. A suitable means of
transport is key.
Public transport is possible but will require forward
planning. Not all busses, tubes, trains
and taxis are wheelchair accessible.
Assistance with journeys by rail can be obtained from http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/stations_destinations/disabled_passengers.aspx
and for the underground on 0845 330 9880 but not every station will have step
free access or platforms that are level with the trains. A good tip is getting a contact number for
the station so you can call and let them know you are coming!
Typically, having your own means of transport is the best
option and gives the greatest freedom. In order to help you achieve the highest
level of independence a driving assessment is an ideal starting point. If you are pursuing a case for compensation
the assessment can form part of the costs of the claim. The assessment will determine which vehicle
best suits your needs as a driver and/or passenger and identify any equipment or
adaptations you may require. We have
extensive experience in arranging these assessments and building the
recommendations into legal claims.
The driving assessment will look at your personal needs
in terms of instruction and equipment such as a wheelchair lift & ramp,
specialised driving adaptations such as hand controls or electronic driving
controls are available. The latter can be mounted anywhere in the vehicle and
can be hand, foot, shoulder, elbow, etc, operated. Seating for family, friends
and support workers will also be dealt with.
Appropriate heating and ventilation are essential as well. Specialist disabled insurance is available,
but this is often offered at a higher premium and needs to be considered as
part of your legal claim. Likewise
roadside assistance (AA, RAC…) gives security in case of breakdown and is also
a recoverable cost.
Returning to driving or travelling as a passenger in a
suitably adapted vehicle is key to regaining your independence following a
spinal cord injury.
Helen Clifford, Solicitor - Leigh Day
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