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Introduction

One of the biggest obstacles that many Persons with Mobility Impairments often encounter, is getting their independence back and being able to drive a vehicle or even being able to be transported in their own vehicle. Owning your own vehicle offers many benefits for Persons With Mobility Impairments. Thanks to the advances in technology, there are a variety of different types of equipment & adapted vehicles, which are available in South Africa and are supplied by companies or organisations such as Pro Mobility, Sitwell, Shoprider, Skyjacks, Easy Drive WC and Nicky's Drive. These "Vehicle Aids, along with Organizations that supply Driver Training and advice such as the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD), QASA and Rolling Rehab, can help you get back on the road safely, thus giving the independence back to many Persons With Disabilities.

With the assistance of the links to web-sites such as Auto-Mobility and Rolling Rehab (see links on the left of page and below), this page will assist you to choose what type of Vehicles and "Vehicle Aids" would suite you & also put you into contact with the right people who can assist you to be able to learn to drive. This page also includes information about:Auto-Mobility

  • Applying for Wheelchair Parking Permits
  • Applying for a Vehicle Rebate, etc.

"Auto-Mobility is a comprehensive hub to driving in South Africa, for people with physical disabilities. Auto-Mobility addresses vital information to potential drivers with disabilities and offers information on a range of vehicle adaptations, giving solutions and opportunities to become mobile and independent. Auto-Mobility covers specific dimensions, features and benefits of selected vehicles. Visit: www.auto-mobility.co.za to find out more."

One of the biggest obstacles that many Persons with Mobility Impairments often encounter, is getting their independence back and being able to drive a vehicle or be transported in a vehicle. There are a variety of different types of equipment & adapted vehicles, which are available in South Africa to assist you to be able to drive, as well as some Occupational Therapists and Organizations such as The National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities, QASA and Rolling Rehab which offer services such as Driver Training & Assessments, which can help you get back on the road safely, thus giving the independence back to many Persons With Disabilities.

"Rolling Rehab is an organization that is passionate about assisting people who have a disability & want to drive. "We understand thatRolling Rehab being unable to drive in South Africa is like having a prison sentence, so our aim is to assist people to get back their independence through safe driving. We offer an independent consultancy service where we do a holistic assessment of the individual’s needs and abilities, and advise whether they are safe to start driving or to continue driving after an accident or illness. We also make recommendations on what vehicles and adaptations are best suited to their needs. We believe that defensive driving is an essential skill for any driver who has reduced physical abilities and therefore we organize a number of defensive driving days throughout the year in partnership with an advanced driving academy." Visit: www.rollingrehab.co.za to find out more."

NCPD: The The National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities is proud to be in a position to offer various training, including Transport and driving training, the majority of training sessions can be tailor-made to suit your needs. Other training includes SETA accredited training courses; courses for professionals in the Services and Health profession; Courses for architects; Caregiver training for carers of children or adults; Governance training; Fundraising training; Disability Equity training; Reasonable accommodation; Inclusive design; Various impairments and the implications; Drivers of persons with disabilities; Human Rights and advocacy and Assistive device repairs. Please contact them for more information, or visit: www.ncpd.org.za to find out more.

QASA: The QuadPara Association of South Africa (QASA) is a non-profit organisation (NPO 000-881) of Quadriplegics and Paraplegics in South Africa. QASA’s mission is “to improve lives by securing resources to advocate, educate, capacitate, support and mobilize”.  QASA’s vision is that “all quadriplegics and paraplegicsQuadPara Association of South Africa will live their lives to their full potential”. QASA develops products, programmes and services for quadriplegic and paraplegic members to build their capacity and ensure opportunities for societal integration and empowerment.

These projects include but are not limited to the Driving Ambitions:

A major barrier facing persons with disabilities is a lack of accessible public transport, which is a huge obstacle for wheelchair users trying to lead an independent life. Recognising this, QASA rolled out a driver training project in KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng and the Western Cape to teach persons with mobility impairments to drive a vehicle fitted with hand controls.

Should you be interested in joining this programme you will have to meet the following requirements:

  • Be a QASA member - if not fill in a membership application form.
  • Have a physical disability.
  • Possess a valid learner’s license.
  • A South African ID document.
  • The candidate must be focused and committed to attending classes every day with the ambition of wanting full time employment at the end of the programme.

Read More

Click on the link above to find out more about "Driving Ambitions", or visit our Organizations - QASA Page to find out more about QASA and the other Projects and Services that they provide, or their website at www.qasa.co.za.

Steps To Getting on The Road

Persons With Disabilities who want to drive a vehicle or be able to be transported in their own vehicle, will need to overcome a few obstacles and make a few decisions, before they are able to purchase the correct vehicle and vehicle aids to suit their needs. They should also go for an assessment to make sure that it is safe for them to be driving a vehicle. These assessments can also assist you if you are a passenger in the vehicle. According to the Road Traffic Act there are some restrictions that prevent some people from qualifying to drive due to medical conditions. Chapter 4 of the Road traffic Act states that a person does not qualify to hold a drivers licence if they are affected by one of the following diseases or disabilities:

Read More: Auto-Mobility - Do I Qualify?

There is legislation's & Road Traffic Act’s in place, that you should take note of. To find out more about these, visit:

Auto-Mobility - Need to Know
Auto-Mobility - Road Traffic Acts

Should you qualify according to the above legislation's & Road Traffic Act’s, you will be required to go for an assessment to see if it is safe for you to be driving a vehicle. These assessments can also assist you if you are a passenger in the vehicle.

Assessment On Ability To Drive

An assessment is required, if your disability arises as a result of a neurological condition (e.g. Stroke or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)), or degenerative disease (e.g. Multiple Sclerosis or Muscular Dystrophy). Assessments are also a suitable safety check for responsible older drivers. Assessments are customized according to the client’s needs & cover all aspects of driving including:Assessments

  • Assessment of physical ability to operate vehicle controls
  • Cognitive Assessment – including perception, decision making, problem solving, and ability to multi-task, understanding and interpretation of the rules of the road.
  • Reaction speed test
  • Visual screening
  • Visual Processing Speeds
  • In car assessment
  • On- road driving test

One Organization who offer these types assessments for Persons With Disabilities, is Rolling Rehab.

Read More

Driver TrainingDriver Training

Once you have been assessed & passed to be able to learn to drive, you will be required to get your learners licence and to learn how to drive & pass your license. First time licensing procedures for Persons With Disabilities are exactly the same as for any other person applying for a licence. If a person had a normal licence and then developed a disability, which resulted in them requiring adaptations, or an automatic vehicle to enable them to drive, they are legally required to inform the licensing department and be re-tested. To find out more about "Licensing Procedures", visit: Auto-Mobility - Licensing Procedures

Persons With Disabilities who wish to learn to drive, will need to find a Driving School that can accommodate them. The Driving School would need to have an adapted vehicle to suit them, and they should specialize in teaching Persons With Disabilities to learn to drive. There are also various Organizations such as the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD), QASA and Rolling Rehab, which can all teach Persons With Disabilities to learn to drive and can help them get back on the road safely, thus giving the independence back to many Persons With Disabilities.

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Wheelchair Parking Bays & Disksdisabled parking sign

Wheelchair Parking Bays & Disks are for persons who use wheelchairs and drive themselves or who are transported in a vehicle. These Wheelchair Parking Bays are set aside for wheelchair users & Persons With Disabilities. They are not only close to the entrance, but are also wider than the average parking bay. Wheelchair Parking Bays are traditionally 3500mm wide to cater for a wheelchair user who needs the extra space to enter or exit the vehicle. This extra space helps these transfers to be done safely for the wheelchair user & helps prevent the vehicle in the parking space near by from getting damaged. Persons who use these parking bays need to apply for a Wheelchair Parking Permit, also known as a "Disabled Parking Permit", "Handicapped Permit", "Disabled Placard" or "Disabled Badge", which is displayed on the vehicle upon parking it in one one of these bays. These Parking Permits can be registered & obtained from various Organizations such as the QASA and National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD).

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Motor Vehicle Importation Rebates

If you are in a position to purchase a new vehicle that has been imported and has been or will be adapted to suite persons with Mobility Impairments, you may qualify for a Rebate on this vehicle. NCPDThe SA government (through the International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC), the Department of Trade, Industry and Competitions (DTI) and the SA Revenue Services) provides a rebate on the customs duty of the importation of adapted vehicles, either for use by persons with disabilities who drive themselves (self-drive), or by an organisation or individual that transports persons with disabilities (assisted transport). The rebate is also available for imported second-hand vehicles that have already been adapted.

The rebate is intended to cover the cost of the adaptations to a vehicle, as a concession to those who require this extra expense. For this reason, only those applicants who comply with ITAC’s criteria will be approved. NCPD is the DTI’s official partner and facilitates the application process so as to certify that the applicant has a substantial impairment, complies with the criteria and requires the use of an adapted vehicle.

Read More:

You can also visit Rolling Rehab on the links below, to find out more about this, including the steps you need to follow & the forms you need to fill out:

Choosing The Right Type of WAV or Vehicle

Before choosing what type of vehicle to purchase, there is a lot to think about and consider. The page below will give you a step-by-step guide to choose the correct vehicle and adaptions that would suite you.

Will you be transferring into the vehicle, or will you remain in your wheelchair, while driving or being transported?

Persons who will be driving the vehicle from their wheelchair, or will remain in their wheelchair while being transported, will require a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV), which you can drive your wheelchair into and position in place. The WAV will therefore need to be spacious & the doorway will need to be wide & high enough for you to fit into. You will also need to decide whether you will require a vehicle that allows back or side entrance. Motorized Wheelchairs require a lot more height & space to maneuver, as apposed to most Manual Wheelchairs. The height & space you require, will depend on your height & the type of  Wheelchair you are using.driving from wheelchair

Choosing The Right WAV - Driving From Your Wheelchair

"Driving From a Wheelchair" provides a new level of freedom for persons who have difficulty transferring into a vehicle. It is only an option in vehicles with a flat floor and with adequate internal height to accommodate a person sitting in their wheelchair.

"When choosing this type of vehicle, the choice will be guided by the dimensions of the vehicle, in comparison with the height of the individual in their wheelchair, as well as the size of the wheelchair." You should also measure the internal height of the vehicle and compare that to the height of the person sitting in their wheelchair. You will also need to consider the size of the door openings to see if you can fit a Wheelchair Lift and decide which type of Wheelchair Lift would suite you, this would normally be a Single Arm Lift. Those who are going to use ramps, would need to measure the height of the floor of the vehicle from the ground, which will determine the length of the ramps that are going to be used. To find out more about this and to view the dimensions of the interior of the different vehicles available, click on the links below:

Rolling Rehab: Choosing a vehicle for its dimensions: Hatch Backs
Rolling Rehab: Choosing a vehicle for its dimensions: MPV's
Rolling Rehab: Choosing a vehicle for its dimensions: Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles

"Driving From a Wheelchair" conversions which are done in South Africa, are limited to the larger Mini Vans and Kombis, which have adequate internal height, the technology for smaller vehicles is not currently available in South Africa, but is possible to import these vehicles through companies such as Easy Drive WC in Cape Town. Easy Drive WC can import smaller vehicles like the Volkswagen Caddy which have had a lower the floor conversion done all the way to the driver’s seat by companies such as Tripod Mobility, so that you can drive or be a passenger.

An example of one type of conversion which is available from Easy Drive WC, which has been imported, is the Up Front conversion by Tripod Mobility:

Up Front Seating

Image Courtesy of Easy Drive WC

Up Front conversion by Tripod Mobility: (pictured right) is always driven by safety, and is therefore one of the few car conversion companies worldwide that has invested in its own test bench. Tripod products are tested according to European standards and have the seal of approval of the Dutch Department of transportation (RDW). The UpFront can accommodate virtually every wheelchair, the set up on the front row allows for two wheelchairs, two regular car seats, or one of each. The lowered floor extends from the tailgate all the way to under the dashboard. The UpFront doesn’t require the use of a lift, because the lowered floor optimizes the accessibility. Optionally the UpFront can be equipped with the NIVO system, which reduces the inclination angle by lowering the rear of the car to the pavement. The original front seats are mounted on a wheeled frame, for improved removal and reinstalling.

Despite its compact size, the UpFront offers equal room for the wheelchair(s) as a much larger van or minivan. The UpFront also offers:
• Better handling in inner city traffic
• Better fuel economy
• Favorable road tax and insurance premiums
• Substantially lower base price than the larger alternatives

The interior space is maximized by lowering the floor as much as possible but the ground clearance is not affected, so speed bumps are not a problem. Via the ramp and spacious rear entrance the lowered floor gives most wheelchairs unobstructed access all the way up to the dashboard. Vehicles with this adaption can be imported and supplied in South Africa by Easy Drive WC. Contact them to find out more or to receive a quote.

Easy Drive WC can also import and sell previously adapted "smaller vehicles, where "Driving From a Wheelchair" is possible, (see below for more details).

If you decide to use one of the bigger vehicles, there are a variety of different types & makes of Vans or Kombi's to choose from including:Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (wav)

When purchasing a vehicle, it is often a challenge to find the right vehicle, as well as a motor dealer who is sympathetic to the needs of "Drivers With Disabilities". Persons With Disabilities who live Gauteng can view a list of dealers in Gauteng, who have been recommended by other Persons With Disabilities who have used them and have been happy with their service. If you would like to find out more about these dealers as well as some featured vehicles, you can visit:Driving From Your Wheelchair Cape Mobility

Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAV's) - Readily Available

As mentioned above, there are various companies in South Africa that supply a number of smaller vehicles that have already been adapted and can be driven into with a wheelchair or can be transferred into, to be able to drive. These vehicles are 2nd hand and are imported from England by Easy Drive WC  and Cape Mobility, thus making Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAV's) readily available to you in South Africa. These WAV's are already converted and ready for you to drive. They have easy wheelchair access to give you the freedom to get out and about whenever you wish.

"The WAV's that we supply are mainly between 6 months and 5 years old and available from R180,000, landed in Cape Town including duties and VAT. These vehicles are imported by us from Motobility, a registered Charity in the UK with a fleet of 500,000 vehicles. We are dedicated to get the best available vehicle to suite you." Kango Drive from wheelchair

One of these vehicles, which can be driven from a wheelchair, is a Renault Kango "Drive From Wheelchair" vehicle, which has been donated to QASA and Driving Ambitions by Geoff Dear of Cape Mobility. This vehicle is appropriate for persons who would like to learn to drive from their wheelchair in the Johannesburg and Pretoria area. To view more information about this vehicle and "how it works", visit the YouTube video clip on the right. To find out more information about how you can purchase a similar vehicle, you contact Geoff Dear from Cape Mobility or Johan from Easy Drive WC on the details below.

Johan from Easy Drive WC also makes transport accessible for wheelchair users, by offering a Vehicle Hire Self Drive Service. Their Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle is an adapted Volkswagen Caddy Maxi. You can contact Easy Drive WC to find out more.

To find more about "Driving From A Wheelchair", click on the links below:

If you want to travel in your wheelchair as a passenger & will not be driving the vehicle.

Choosing The Right Type of Vehicle as a Passenger

Persons who will not be driving the vehicle, but will be traveling in their wheelchair as a passenger, have a number of vehicles to choose from, including any of the vehicles mentioned above, as well as some slightly smaller vehicles. These smaller vehicles can be adapted in South Africa to include a "Lowered Floor" to allow for more head room.

Vehicles With Lowered Floors - Passenger

These Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAV's) are vehicles such as the Volkswagen Caddy Maxi, which is the ideal "Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle" for this purpose. It enables a person to move into the vehicle while seated in their wheelchair. These vehicles are easier to drive & are lighter on fuel than the bigger vehicles mentioned above. The lower floor gives adequate internal height to accommodate a person sitting in their wheelchair as a passenger.

Various companies in South Africa such as Shoprider, Pro Mobility and Easy Drive WC can adapt and supply various types lowered floor conversions on a number of different types of vehicles such as the Peugeot Partner, Volkswagen Caddy Maxi, Crewbus or Trendline. A section of the floor is lowered and a ramp is fitted to give easy access into the vehicle. These vehicles come with the option of a shorter ramp in combination with a lowered suspension, or a longer ramp with the standard suspension. These rear entry wheelchair vans provide an economically friendly accessible option that takes the worry out of narrow aisle ways and other side entry limitations. Back entry lowered floor conversions are seamlessly engineered to make wheelchair minivans as barrier-free as possible. The conversion enhances the resale price of the vehicle and can also be undertaken on pre-owned vehicles. Easy Drive WC have completed a number of these different types of conversions, including the:

Lowered floor conversion

Image courtesy of Easy Drive WC - lowered floor conversion

Dropped Floor Caddy: Vehicle Conversion systems for the disabled Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) Locally adapted VW Caddy. The wheelchair accessible vehicle is a vehicle that has been converted so that you can travel in it while remaining seated in your wheelchair as a passenger. No need to transfer from your wheelchair; Getting in and out is quick and easy; Room for family luggage. EasyDrive WC have just completed S A first dropped Floor Caddy. Contact Easy Drive WC to find out more or to receive a quote.

 Lowered Platform Conversion by Easy Drive WC: Easy Drive WC has done various lowered platform conversions on vehicles such as the Peugeot Partner (pictured right). This type of conversion is suitable where it is difficult or impossible to transfer a disabled passenger, also called board and drive. The rear door is opened, the ramp lowered electrically, the passenger drives in with his/her wheelchair and docks in the docking station. The seatbelt get fastened and ramp raised, door closed and off you go in less that 30 seconds. This type of conversion is life changing for both the patient and partner. Easy Drive WC was the first company in South Africa to locally modify vehicles to a lowered platform. They have built 19 of these vehicles to date. Contact Easy Drive WC to find out more or to receive a quote.

Peugeot Teepee Minibus: The lowered floor conversion on a Peugeot Teepee minibus from Easy Drive WC offers lots of space and conference style seating to make this vehicle a real tourer and a life changing conversion indeed! Please contact Easy Drive WC to find out more or to receive a quote.

If you cannot find what you are looking for, or have any questions, please feel free to Contact Us to see what other types of these products are available in South Africa to assist you.

If you will be transferring into the vehicle, while driving or being transported?

Choosing The Right Vehicle - Transferring Into A Vehicle

Persons who are able to transfer into a vehicle, should consider buying a vehicle that is a similar height to their wheelchair, including one that has a drivers door that opens relatively wide. Most Persons With Physical Disabilities require an automatic vehicle, as this simplifies the driving process and reduces the number of actions required at any one time. An automatic vehicle is therefore a lot easier to drive.

Each disability is unique and every driver has different strengths, weakness and requirements. The choice of the vehicle and the way that it is adapted, should therefore be customized according to the individual. To find more about this, visit either:

It is also very important to have the correct positioning and set-up in the vehicle, the correct positioning in the vehicle can help to optimize the physical function of drivers who have limited body function. This can make the difference between having the physical ability to avoid an emergency situation, compared with finding that they are trapped and unable to escape as a result of not having the agility to manoeuvre their vehicle out of harm’s way. To find out more about Driver Positioning & Set- Up, visit the link below:

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If you will be transferring into your vehicle manually.

Transferring & Loading Wheelchair Into A Vehicle

When driving or traveling in a motor vehicle, some persons with Mobility Impairments who use wheelchairs or other similar Mobility Aids, do not travel in there Mobility Aids, they therefore need to transfer into the vehicle from their wheelchair or other Mobility Aid. Some persons with Mobility Impairments are lucky enough to be able to transfer themselves without assistance.

Transferring Into A Vehicle Manually

Transferring into a vehicle manually often looks easy but can be very difficult when first starting off. A person will need to develop a technique according to their individual abilities. After much practice, transferring can become easier. To find out more about "Transferring into a Vehicle", visit: Auto-Mobility: Transfer Into Vehicle

Loading Mobility Aid Into Vehicle Manually

Persons With Mobility Impairments who travel in a vehicle and use Mobility Aids such as wheelchairs and who are able to transfer themselves into a vehicle, but do not have help putting their wheelchair into their vehicle, will have to learn to transfer their mobility aid into and out of the vehicle. This can be done manually or with the assistance of equipment such as hoists.

Learning the correct way of manually loading your wheelchair into and out of your vehicle, is the final touch to being independent, but if not done correctly, can cause long term damage to the shoulders which can ultimately threaten your independence. Each person is different, so you will need to learn how to do this according to your individual abilities, wheelchair and type of vehicle you own. To find out the correct way to load your manual wheelchair, visit:

Auto-Mobility: How To Load Manual Wheelchair

Once you have chosen a vehicle that suits your needs, you will have to decide what Vehicle Aids would suit you, this includes the Hand Controls, as well as the equipment that can help you to transfer yourself and your Mobility Aid into the vehicle.

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Types Of Vehicle Aids

There are a wide variety of different types of these Vehicle Aids to choose from, but each person is unique & therefore requires a different solution. Organizations such as Rolling Rehab can assist you to choose the right equipment to suite you, while companies such as Pro Mobility, Sitwell, Shoprider, Skyjacks, Easy Drive WC and Nicky's Drive offer a wide variety of solutions and can also advise you on what Vehicles or Vehicle Aids would best suit your needs. Some of these companies can also install and service this equipment they supply if the need arises.

Pro Mobility: Discover a world of freedom and accessibility with Pro Mobility – Your Ultimate Destination for Assisted Living and Mobility Solutions! Our holistic approach is driven by a genuine passion to enhance the quality of life for individuals facing mobility and agility challenges. At Pro Mobility, we go beyond just providing products; we offer a personalized experience, understanding the unique needs of each client.

 Why Choose Pro Mobility? Pro Mobility

  • Leading-Edge Solutions: Experience the latest in mobility and accessibility solutions curated for your needs.
  • First-Class Service: Our dedicated team is committed to delivering top-notch service and unwavering support.
  • Authorized Agents: Proud partners with Autochair and Ardoo Products in South Africa, ensuring you get the best in the market.

Explore our extensive range of products and services: Pro mobility provides an extensive range of products and services, including Wheelchairs; Walking Aids; Hoists, Lifts, Ramps, and Transferring Aids; Bathroom and Mobility Aids; Pressure Care Products; Paediatric Equipment; Vehicle Adaptations and Equipment and much more!

 Services Offered includes: Seating Assessments, Servicing, and Repairs: Pro Mobility not only provides quality products but also ensures that they are prescribed, serviced, and repaired with expertise.

Visit Our Showroom: Discover a welcoming, wheelchair-friendly space at our showroom in Gillitts. Experience firsthand how our products seamlessly integrate into your home. With ample parking and easy accessibility, our showroom is designed with your convenience in mind.

Connect with Pro Mobility: Visit our website at www.pro-mobility.co.za for a virtual tour of our offerings. For inquiries, reach out to us at 031-266 6421 or email: mobility@pro-mobility.co.za. Better yet, visit us at 17 Hamilton Crescent, Gillitts, 3610, and witness the freedom we bring to your life.

Elevate your mobility, enhance your lifestyle – choose Pro Mobility!

"Shoprider™: Represents the range of electric mobility scooters and wheelchairs manufactured by the Pihsiang Corporation in Taiwan. Pihsiang's manufacturing plants have been certified for ISO 9001, ISO14001 and ISO 13485 standards.

For the last 30 years Shoprider SA has been serving the Southern African market from Centurion in Gauteng, and as the business and market has grown, we have added representatives in key areas. Shoprider SA carries a full range of stock items which is heldShoprider at our centrally located, workshop/showroom in Centurion. Shipment of parts and scooters to anywhere in the Southern African continent is not a problem. We believe that our after sales service and support give Shoprider South Africa the competitive edge when it comes to customer satisfaction and our ongoing commitment to quality control. We keep a full compliment of spares on site at all times to ensure that our customers are not left stranded. Our technicians are fully trained, offering in-house service and manufacturing where needed. All our work is guaranteed. At Shoprider South Africa, we are passionate about providing you with the perfect portable scooter or wheelchair, giving you the personalised mobility and flexibility you need. In partnering with top European and US manufacturers, we have expanded our services to include vehicle conversions for easy and practical transporting of your portable mobility scooter or electric wheelchair. You can contact Shoprider at: Tel: (012) 653 1168 or Email: shoprider@icon.co.za or www.shoprider.co.za or Address: 70 Jakaranda street, 13 Diamond park, Hennopspark, Centurion, Gauteng.

Sitwell Technologies: are Specialists in the provision of Mobility & Assistive Aid Equipment for persons with physicalSitwell disabilities. Sitwell Technologies represent all local suppliers as well as a number of International manufacturers of equipment, providing an unbiased view of all products available to the South African market. Their approach to Mobility is about providing a holistic solution to each individual’s needs. Sitwell Technologies are based in Johannesburg but can provide products throughout South Africa. You can contact them at: Tel: (+27) 11 440 8226 or email: mobility@sitwell.co.za or www.sitwell.co.za Address: 128 Athol Street, Waverly, Johannesburg, South Africa, 2090.

Skyjacks Wheelchair & Commercial Lifts (Pty) Ltd, has been developing and manufacturing Wheelchair Lifts and Commercial Lifts for the South African market since 1999. Our product was developed by Victor Panaino who has been designing and manufacturing hydraulic lifting systems for 20 years. Our extensive knowledge of product development, business and manufacturing systems has proven itself in the challenging environment of South Africa. Our business ethos is to design lifts around the market requirements, specializing in customer feedback analysis, in-house on the floor design testing and stringent quality checks. We can proudly state that our Wheelchair Lifts and Commercial Lifts have been manufactured from world class materials by our companies trained personnel.Skyjacks

We offer on site fitment and servicing for all our products including:

  • Roof Mounted Wheelchair Lifts
  • Single Arm Wheelchair Lifts
  • Double Arm Wheelchair Lift
  • Wheelchair Tie-down Systems & Safety Belts

On site fitment and servicing is offered on all our products in all major cities in South Africa, contact Skyjacks at: Tel: +27 (0)11 902 0191, Cell: +27 (0)60 989 5840 or email: derek@swclifts.com or visit their website at: www.swclifts.com

Easy Drive Western Cape: is a Cape Town based vehicle adaption company which is owned by Johan Cillié. Easy Drive WC is passionate about their products, the quality and reliability of their systems and about making driving safer for persons with Mobility Impairments. Johan Cillié is a Mechanical Engineer, who has been in the motor industry since 1986 and has beenEasy Drive WC modifying vehicles for years, providing reliable, innovative vehicle solutions to suit the needs of persons with disabilities. The combination of his mechanical and technical knowledge and his compassionate nature assures his clients of a first class service.

We realise that being in a wheelchair is enough of a challenge and we therefore strive to make the adaptation as user friendly as possible. With the knowledge that an adaptation to a motor vehicle is a compromise, we asses our customers and custom-make our conversions to suit the individuals needs and pockets best. We like to work within a budget and give our customers value for their money, while still ensuring that the safety aspects are non-negotiable. We will therefore not fit a system that has inferior safety and quality aspects. It is important to remember that the products being imported are not mass produced and therefore not cheap but do give good value when fitted properly and set up for the specific customer. The Warranty on all Easy Drive WC systems are guaranteed for twelve months and the servicing for the first six months is free.

Easy Drive WC can supply a wide variety of different products and devices which can assist persons with Mobility Impairments in their homes, as well as other equipment which will allow them to drive a conventional car.
These products and devices supplied by Easy Drive WC include but are not limited to:

  • Bed Lifts & Staircase Lifts
  • Hand Controls & Accessories
  • Turn Out Seats & Towbar Fitted Power Lifts
  • Accessible Vehicles & Dropped Floor Conversions
  • EasyPull Wheelchair Restraint Systems & the Bodyguard Safety Device

Easy Drive WC has been awarded Agency rights for the world renowned TriPod Mobility. Matching your disability is what Johan excels at, he will adapt your vehicle to ease your driving disability, to become mobile in your own right, by having a vehicle adapted to suit your disability. By using Guido Simplex and locally manufactured adaptation devices, Johan will make it possible for you to become mobile again.

If you have a disability, but want to be independent in your ability to travel, please do not hesitate to contact Johan from Easy Drive WC at: Unit 6, The Interchange, 9 Nobel St, Somerset West, Cape Town, 7130. You can also contact Johan via his website: www.easydrivewc.co.za, or on: Tel: (021) 851 9592 or email him at: johan@easydrivewc.co.za

Nicky’s Drive: is a registered non-profit organisation (086-364-NPO) that aims to assist South Africans with disabilities to be more mobile and independent through the funding of car adaptations. Nicky Abdinor, the founder and chairperson of Nicky’s Drive was inspired to start the non-profit as she knows how empowering driving an adapted car can be. Nicky was born without arms andNickey's Drive shortened legs and always had a dream to drive. In 2001, someone in the UK (with a very similar disability) donated her “old” car to Nicky. The costs of such sophisticated technology for Nicky to drive were beyond her reach, so this donation had a profoundly positive effect on her life.

Nicky’s Drive was founded in 2011 to inspire other people with disabilities to realise their dreams to drive! Nicky offers motivational talks at conferences and events to raise funds for these vehicle adaptions. A portion of Nicky’s speaking fee is donated to Nicky’s Drive and goes directly towards the funding of car adaptations in South Africa.

Since her 2011 TEDx Talk, Driving Dreams: YouTube Clip, Nicky has become a sought-after motivational speaker and has travelled around the world (and online during the pandemic!) sharing her story of resilience and cultivating optimism in uncertain times. Besides her unique story, Nicky had the added expertise as a Clinical Psychologist that further enhances her message to create sustainable changes in our attitudes, beliefs and emotions. For more information on Nicky’s keynote speaking, visit www.nickyabdinor.com.

If you have a DREAM TO DRIVE, apply to Nicky’s Drive now! They could be funding your car adaptations in the near future.

To apply for funding, please contact: apply@nickysdrive.com or nicky@nickysdrive.com for an application form. The Nicky’s Drive committee (all volunteers) meet quarterly to review applications. They are able to support 4 projects a year with a maximum donation of R20 000 per project.

Nicky's Drive funding recipient - Siphamandla Mtsolo

Image courtesy of Nicky's Drive

In order to be considered by the committee for the funding of a car adaptation project, your application will need to meet the following criteria:

  • Applicants with a physical disability who are South African citizens may apply for funding.
  • Preference is given to applicants who require accessible transport for work and/or studies.
  • Applicants must have funding for their own AUTOMATIC vehicle and the maintenance/running costs of that vehicle.
  • Applications need to include a driving assessment by an Occupational Therapist to assess the abilities/needs for driving, along with a quotation from a local car adaptation company.
  • Preference is given to applicants from previously disadvantaged backgrounds.
  • Applicants need to be willing to be photographed or filmed for marketing purposes.

Please note that there is no guarantee that Nicky’s Drive can support every car adaptation project (as much as they wish they could!). Please be in touch for more information www.nickysdrive.com.

If you will be driving the vehicle, you will need to choose Hand Controls to suite you, your disability & the type of vehicle you have chosen.

Hand Controls

There is a wide range of specialist controls, from simple attachments such as wider mirrors and steering knobs to more elaborate controls that make it possible for almost anyone to drive as long as they meet the requirements for a driver's licence. Some types of driving controls can be permanently fitted, while others are portable and do not require specialist fitting. Foot pedals can be raised, or replaced with hand-controlled devices. Hand Controls are used for those individuals that have the ability to drive, but have limited or no use of their legs. Hand Controls can be fitted to most types of vehicles and are available from a variety of companies and organisations, including Shoprider, Pro Mobility, Nicky's Drive and Easy Drive WC. Contact them to find out about the different types of driving controls that they can provide, or click on the link below, or the “Vehicle Aids” button on the Top Left to find out more about these companies or organisations and the products that they supply, as well as the equipment that will work with each individuals needs, making driving safe for all drivers.

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If you will need assistance to transfer into your vehicle.

Transferring Into A Vehicle With Assistance

Some Persons With Mobility Impairments may require assistance to transfer into or out of a vehicle, this may require the assistance of 1 or 2 people to manually transfer that person, but this can be made easier thanks to a number of different types of equipment including:

Turny Evo

Image Courtesy of Shoprider

  • Transfer Boards
  • Transfer Turntable
  • Swivel Seat For Car Seat
  • Swivel Seats
  • Top Slider
  • The Ardoo Caresafe 140 hoist
  • The Smart Transfer Person Lift

This equipment is available in South Africa and is supplied by companies such as Pro Mobility, Sitwell, Easy Drive WC and Shoprider. Click on the link below to find out more information about the products that are available and which companies supply the various products.

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If you will be needing assistance to load you mobility aid.

Assistance Loading Mobility Aid Into Vehicle

Persons who are able to drive and transfer themselves into their car, but are unable to transfer their Mobility Aid into their car, may require a Vehicle Aid to assist them. There are a variety of these Vehicle Aids which can assist you, including:

  • Roof Top Lifts
  • Hoist For Loading Mobility Aids Through The Sliding Door

You should find one that suites you and your vehicle as well as the type of Mobility Aid that you use. Being able to drive and transfer yourself and your wheelchair is the final touch to being independent.

Roof Top Lifts

Persons who use a folding manual wheelchair and need help to load their wheelchair into their car, may find that a Roof Top Lift is an option for them. A Roof Top Lift is a hoist that lifts the wheelchair onto the roof of the car & stores it there. When using a Roof Top Lift, the need to store your wheelchair in the trunk, passenger seat or backseat is eliminated, thus allowing family and friendsChair Topper to enjoy the comfort of your vehicle. These Roof Mounted Lifts are designed to be operated & used by independent Persons With Disabilities, who want the ease of stowing their wheelchair away without assistance. Roof Top Lifts can also prevent injury, as long term loading of wheelchairs may often cause strains and injuries. Roof Top Lifts do however only work with folding manual wheelchairs & can add a lot to the fuel consumption of the vehicle due to wind resistance caused by the wheelchair or the compartment in which the wheelchair is stored.

There are 2 types of Roof Top Lifts available in South Africa, including:

  • Roof Mounted Wheelchair Lifts - Which can be retrofitted to most models of sedans and hatch back vehicles and is securely mounted onto roof racks. The control toggle switch is positioned near the vehicles steering controls for ease of use by the driver. Unfortunately this Vehicle Aid does leave the wheelchair exposed to the elements during transport.
  • A Chair Topper - Is designed to fit a wide variety of vehicles, it automatically folds and stores a conventional folding wheelchair inside a stylish, weather-resistant car-top compartment.

This equipment is available in South Africa and is supplied by companies such as Pro Mobility, Skyjacks, Easy Drive WC and Shoprider. Click on the link below to find out more information about these products that are available and which companies supply the various products.

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Sliding Doors & Loading Mobility Aids Through The Sliding Door

Sliding Doors can be useful, as they give extra space to allow you to transfer through and to transfer your Mobility Aid into your vehicle. There are various solutions and assistive devices that are available to assist you to convert a normal door into a sliding door, or to assist you to transfer your mobility aid. Vehicles that have sliding doors can accommodate other Vehicle Aids which can assist you to load Scooters, Motorized Wheelchairs or Manual Wheelchairs into your vehicle. Companies such as Shoprider, Pro Mobility and Easy Drive WC can supply a hoist that pulls or lifts the Mobility Aid into the vehicle behind the drivers seat. The door width should be 80mm wider than the width of the Mobility Aid, and 150mm higher than the height of the Mobility Aid. To find out more about this type of equipment, click the link below:

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If you have assistance to load your Wheelchair, Scooter or Motorized Wheelchair, but you need to transport them.

Rear Wheelchair Carriers & Powered Wheelchairs & Scooter Lifts

There are a number of options for Persons With Mobility Impairments, who have assistance from someone to load their Mobility Aid, once they have transferred into the vehicle. These options require that the Wheelchair or Scooter is loaded & transported at the back of the vehicle, either in the boot or on a unit attached to a hitch on the back of the vehicle. This may require drilling into theTail Lift trunk or storage space of the vehicle, or wiring the unit directly to the car battery. It is recommended that you get a reputable auto mechanic to do this, but some suppliers include the option of an expert installation, and will coordinate the entire installation process. There are a few of these types of options available, including:

  • Tail Lifts & Wheelchair Racks
  • Wheelchair Carriers
  • Towbar Fitted Power Lift
  • Boot Hoists

Various types of this equipment is available to purchase in South Africa from companies such as Pro Mobility, Easy Drive WC, Sitwell and Shoprider. Click on the link below to find out more information about what products are available and which companies supply the various products.

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If you remain in your wheelchair, while driving or being transported.

Vehicle Aids For People Who Travel In Their Mobility Aids

Persons who will be remaining in their wheelchair while being transported, will require a Vehicle Aid to be able to load their Mobility Aid and themselves into the vehicle. There are two options available and these are:

  • Wheelchair Lifts For Vehicles
  • Wheelchair Ramps For Vehicles

Both of these options have their Pro's and Con's and the decision of which one to purchase, should be based on the:

  • amount of independence you require
  • type of vehicle you are using
  • type of Mobility Aid you use
  • amount of money that you are able to spend

You will also require a Wheelchair Restraint System installed in the vehicle to make sure that you and your Mobility Aid does not move around in the vehicle, while you are being transported.

Wheelchair Lifts For Vehicles

Wheelchair Lifts also known as Hydraulic Lifts are fully powered devices designed to raise persons in Wheelchairs or sometimes Scooters into a vehicle which has adequate internal height and a doorway which is wide enough. There are a variety of WheelchairHydraulic Lift Lifts available, depending on the type of vehicle that you will be using & the entry point, as well as the weight & size of the Mobility Aid that you will be using. Wheelchair Lifts also come in various sizes and can either be installed on the side or back of the vehicle. Some Vehicle Lifts come with an extension, which gives extra space to load a longer Motorized Wheelchair or Scooter.

Advantages of using a Wheelchair Lift versus a Ramp, is that a Wheelchair Lift can be controlled by the person in the wheelchair therefore making them more independent. The appropriate Hand Controls, along with a Wheelchair Lift to get you and your wheelchair into the vehicle, make it possible for persons with even severe Mobility Impairments to be able to drive and become completely independent. There are two types of Wheelchair Lifts installed on Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicles, they are:

  • Single-Arm Wheelchair Lifts
  • Dual-Arm Wheelchair Lifts

This equipment is available in South Africa and is supplied by companies such as Pro Mobility, Skyjacks and  Shoprider, who also install this equipment. Click on the link below to find out more information about what products that are available and which companies supply the various products.

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Wheelchair Ramps For Vehicles

A Wheelchair Ramp for a Vehicle is an inclined plane installed to assist persons using Wheelchairs, Scooters, Walkers or other Mobility Aids to easily access slightly larger motor vehicles, such as a Kombi's, Vans or even a vehicle such as the Volkswagen Caddy. Wheelchair Ramps are ideal for persons who have assistance to get into & out of the vehicle, as most types of Ramps sold in South Africa, are not automatic. The Ramps that are available in South Africa are less expensive than Wheelchair Lifts, but serve a similar purpose. Many of these Ramps that can be used for vehicles, can also be used in or outside of a home to navigate steps. Wheelchair Ramps for Vehicles come in a variety of different types, including:

  • Roll-A-Ramp: Automatic Ramps
  • Roll-A-Ramp: Manual Ramps
  • Roll-up Ramps
  • Telescopic Ramps
  • Folding Ramps
  • Solid Ramps

This equipment is available in South Africa and is supplied by companies such as Pro Mobility, Sitwell, Shoprider and Easy Drive WC. Click on the link below to find out more information about what products are available and which companies supply the various products.

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Wheelchair Restraint Systems

Wheelchair Restraint Systems are the devices used to secure a person and their Wheelchair or Scooter into a vehicle, if they are going to be transported while remaining in their Mobility Aid. These Wheelchair Restraint Systems are extremely important to prevent the Wheelchair or Scooter from moving around and to secure the person in their Mobility Aid, especially during an accident or an emergency stop. There are a wide range of different types Wheelchair Restraint Systems to choose from, with each having it's pro's & con's, depending on whether you are driving or will have somebody assisting to secure you in the vehicle. The mostWheelchair Tie-down System important thing to remember, is safety, so it is important to double check all of your connecting points before departing. This is not only necessary for the person in the Mobility Aid, but also for the safety of everyone else in the vehicle. Some Wheelchairs or Scooters are manufactured with special hooks that can be used in the securing process. If these hooks don't exist, it is important to use a part of the Mobility Aid that is strong and secure & will not be damaged by the securing process.

These different types of Wheelchair Restraint Systems are available to purchase in South Africa from companies such as Pro Mobility, Skyjacks, Sitwell, Easy Drive WC and Shoprider. Click on the link below to find out more information about what systems are available, how they work and which companies supply the various products.

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PrDP Licence

Persons who are going to drive a vehicle & transport Persons with Disabilities, should apply for a PrDP Licence. A Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) is required to drive public transport and heavy duty vehicles, such as taxis, buses and breakdown vehicles. To transport passengers for an income you must have a Professional Driving Permit (PrDP). Before it was called a PrDP, a Professional Driving Permit was originally called a Public Drivers Permit (PDP) which was issued to drivers before 1998.

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Please feel free to Contact Us if you have any questions about the products and Services listed on this page and we will point you in the right direction.

References

Gold Level Membership
Pro Mobility
Shoprider
Rolling Rehab
Sitwell
The National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities
Skyjacks
Easy Drive WC
Nickey's Drive
QuadPara Association of South Africa (QASA)