Motoring

For some disabled people, access to a car and the ability to drive is often the only answer to achieving mobility. If you live in a remote area with little access to public transport, or your disability is such that you cannot use any form of public transport, then a car may be essential.

If you are newly disabled and want to return to driving, or a disabled person taking up driving for the first time, you should ensure that you get the best advice about how to obtain a licence and how to go about getting a car.

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) can require that you undergo an assessment of your fitness to drive if you have 'certain medical conditions or disorders'. In this area the Mobility Service at the Disabled Living Foundation in Bristol is authorised to carry out such assessments, and the staff there will give you all the advice, information and assistance you need.

For many disabled motorists the ‘Motability’ schemes are the preferred way of obtaining a motor vehicle. You can lease or buy a vehicle through the scheme using certain benefits. To find out if you qualify contact Motability or enquire at the Mobility Service mentioned above.

The Blue Badge scheme is the scheme that allows disabled motorists parking concessions. The purpose of the badge is to make it easier for people who are unable to walk any distance to access the facilities they need.

Each local authority administers the system themselves for their residents, and you can contact the appropriate office for your area.

Going By Road - Motoring