Higham Car Adaptions For Disabled Drivers

Our mission is to empower individuals with disabilities through expertly designed car adaptations. With over 40 years of dedicated experience in the disabled car adaptations industry, we pride ourselves on being able to transform vehicles to meet the unique needs of our clients, helping to enhance their independence and quality of life.

We understand that mobility is more than just a convenience – it is a critical component of personal freedom and everyday living. Our team of skilled professionals are committed to delivering not only high-quality, but also reliable car adaptation solutions that make driving and travelling easier for everyone, regardless of their physical challenges.

Our services cover a wide range of disabled car adaptations. Whether you need a person hoist installation, a mobility scooter or wheelchair hoist installation, or a swivel car seat installation for drivers or passengers, we can provide a tailored solution that is designed to meet your specific requirements. Each car adaptation is carried out with precision and care, ensuring your safety, comfort, and ease of use.

We believe in a personalised approach, and work closely with each customer to understand their needs and their preferences. This enables us to be able to recommend and implement the most suitable car adaptations, ensuring both maximum satisfaction and improved mobility. Our expertise, combined with our high standards of service, has made us a trusted partner in the community for enhancing vehicle accessibility.

Feel free to explore our services and discover how we can help you regain the freedom to drive and travel with confidence.

What is a Mobility Scooter or Wheelchair Hoist?

A mobility scooter or wheelchair hoist is a mechanical device that is designed to assist disabled individuals in loading and unloading their mobility aids into and out of a vehicle. These hoists are especially useful for those who find it difficult or impossible to lift heavy equipment on their own. By using a hoist, the physical strain of managing a mobility scooter or wheelchair is significantly reduced, making travel much more accessible and convenient.

Mobility scooter and wheelchair hoists come in various designs to suit different types of vehicles and user needs. Some hoists are mounted in the boot of the car and use a mechanical arm to lift the scooter or wheelchair, securely placing it inside the vehicle. Other designs may be installed on the side of the vehicle, providing a more flexible solution depending on the user's preferences and the vehicle's layout. The operation of these hoists is usually very straightforward, with most models featuring remote controls or simple push-button interfaces to ensure they are easy to use.

The benefits of a mobility scooter or wheelchair hoist extend beyond just the physical aspect of loading and unloading your mobility device. They will enhance your overall independence and mobility. By eliminating the requirement of a carer when travelling, you can enjoy greater freedom and spontaneity in your daily life. Whether it’s running errands, attending appointments, or embarking on a leisure trip, a hoist makes it possible to manage your mobility aids efficiently, giving you a sense of autonomy and confidence.

Safety is a key consideration in the design of mobility scooter and wheelchair hoists. They are built to securely handle the weight and dimensions of mobility aids, and minimise the risk of damage to your mobility device or injury to you or your carer. Many models also include safety features such as automatic locking mechanisms and stabilisers to ensure that the hoist remains steady during operation.

A mobility scooter or wheelchair hoist is an invaluable tool for a disabled individual looking to maintain their independence and mobility. These devices offer a practical and efficient solution for managing your mobility aids, reducing physical strain, and enhancing travel convenience. By understanding the various types of hoists available and their benefits, you can make an informed decision about the best hoist to meet your specific needs and improve the quality of your life.

How Do I Choose the Right In Car Person Hoist for My Vehicle?

Choosing the right in car person hoist for your vehicle is an important decision that can significantly enhance your mobility and your independence. The process involves considering several key factors to ensure that the hoist you select meets your specific needs and integrates seamlessly with your vehicle.

The first thing that you need to assess is the compatibility of the hoist with your vehicle. Some hoists are designed specifically for cars, SUVs, or vans and even within them different vehicles require different types of hoists to be fitted, so it's essential that you check the specifications of both your vehicle and the hoist before purchasing. You will need to measure the interior dimensions of your car and ensure that the hoist can fit comfortably inside without obstructing anything once fitted. Ensuring that the hoist is compatible with your vehicle will guarantee that the hoist will function correctly and that it will provide the best possible support for you.

The next thing to consider is the weight capacity and the functionality of the hoist. It's crucial that you choose a hoist that can safely support your weight and provide reliable performance when lifting and lowering you. Check what is the maximum weight limit of the hoist and then compare it with your own weight to ensure that it is a secure fit. Additionally, use the hoists lifting and lowering mechanisms to ensure that it is a smooth and controlled movement, making the transfer process safe and comfortable for you. In car hoist features such as powered lifting, handheld remote controls, and adjustable sling options can greatly enhance the ease of use and the overall functionality of the hoist.

Another important factor is the ease of installation and how easy it is to use. Some in car hoists are designed to be permanently installed in the car, while others are more portable and can be easily removed and stored securely when not in use. You will need to consider your lifestyle and how often you will want to use the hoist on a daily basis. If you will be requiring frequent transfers, then a permanently installed hoist might offer greater convenience and stability. On the other hand, if you need a more flexible solution, then a portable hoist might be the better option for you. Ensure that the hoist you choose not only comes with clear instructions but also professional installation services to guarantee that it is set up securely and safely. Once installed our team will also walk you through the use of the hoist so that you are able to use it straight away.

Finally, you need to consider the long-term reliability and maintenance of the hoist. If you invest in a high-quality hoist from a reputable manufacturer that ensures both durability and dependable performance. Also ensure you are covered by a warranty and there is after-sales support offered by the supplier. A robust warranty and a reliable customer service team can provide you with peace of mind, knowing that assistance is available if you do encounter any issues. Your in car hoist will also require regular maintenance to keep the it in optimal condition, so check that the supplier offers maintenance services or that they can recommend a local service provider.

Taking the time to choose the right hoist for your vehicle will enhance your travel experience, making everyday tasks more accessible and enjoyable.

What Is a Swivel Car Seat?

A swivel car seat is an innovative vehicle modification designed to assist individuals who have limited mobility to enter and exit a car or other vehicle more easily. This specially engineered seat allows you to rotate the seat towards the vehicle door, making it significantly easier for you to get in and out of the vehicle. Swivel car seats are particularly beneficial for elderly individuals, those with disabilities, and carers who assist passengers with mobility challenges. By simplifying the transfer process, these seats enhance your safety, comfort, and your independence.

The primary feature of a swivel car seat is its ability to rotate, usually up to 90 degrees, towards the car door. This rotation of the seat reduces the need for any awkward movements and physical strain during entry and exit. Some models are also able to offer powered rotation and height adjustment, providing extra assistance for those who require it. These features ensure that you can position yourself comfortably and securely, minimising the risk of a fall or other injuries that are associated with transferring in and out of the car.

Swivel car seats come in various designs to fit the many different vehicle types, including sedans, SUVs, and vans. They can be installed in both the driver and the passenger seat places, catering to your specific needs. The installation process typically involves replacing your existing car seat with the swivel seat or it can be done by adding a swivel base to your current seat. Professional installation is recommended to ensure that the seat is securely and correctly fitted, so that it provides you with reliable operation and is safe.

One of the most significant benefits of a swivel car seat is the enhanced independence that it offers you. For many people, having the ability to enter and exit a vehicle without needing assistance is a game-changer. This independence allows you to have greater freedom in your daily activities, whether it's running errands, attending appointments, or enjoying social outings. By reducing your reliance on others, you can maintain a sense of autonomy and confidence in your mobility.

In addition a swivel car seat can improve your overall travel experience by increasing not only the ease of access but also the comfort. The smooth rotation and optional power features make transferring into and out of the vehicle a much less daunting task. Your carers will also benefit from the reduced physical demand, as they no longer need to lift or manoeuvre you in and out of the car. This makes your trips more enjoyable and less stressful for both you and your carer.

If you're considering vehicle modifications, a swivel car seat is a valuable investment that can make daily travel more accessible and enjoyable.

Disabled Car Adaptions Installation Frequently Asked Questions

What is an adapted car?

Adapted vehicles are specifically designed to meet a vast range of needs and requirements for individuals with mobility impairments. Whilst advancements have been made with standard cars, original vehicle manufacturers are still developing cars without accessibility in mind.

What are the best hand controls for disabled drivers?

What are the best hand controls for disabled drivers? The push/rock style is ideal for drivers with no finger dexterity. Push/right angle style: If you have limited finger dexterity, the push/right angle style may be the best option for you. This method allows you to push the handle upward toward the instrument panel to brake and downward at a right angle to accelerate.

Will Motability pay for adaptations?

Will Motability pay for adaptations? The Motability Foundation is a national charity which oversees the Motability Scheme. They may be able to provide charitable grants towards adaptations, vehicle Advance Payments or driving lessons to disabled people who would otherwise be unable to afford them.

Can you put a wheelchair lift on a car?

Can you put a wheelchair lift on a car? Most wheelchair lifts are compatible with cars, minivans, SUVs, trucks, and vans, and come complete with fully powered lifting and folding functionality. For added convenience, a swing-away option is also available!

Will a mobility scooter fit in a car?

Some mobility scooters can be taken apart and transported inside a vehicle. However, not every electric wheelchair disassembles for easy transport. In those cases, you'll have to transport the chair the way it is.