Left Foot Accelerator
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If someone is unable to use their right leg to operate the standard accelerator pedal, but has full use of their left leg, they may be able to drive using a left foot accelerator. There are several types.
If another person needs to drive the vehicle using the accelerator pedal with their right foot as standard, the pedal to the right of the brake can be pulled down and the left foot accelerator pedal withdrawn safely out of the way. It is advised that others who use the car do not use the left foot accelerator pedal.
2) Another option uses 2 connecting rods either side of the brake and one foot pedal. The accelerator pedal can be fitted to the rod on the required side with a wing nut attachment. However, this leaves the unused rod exposed and also requires the physical ability to unscrew and refit the accelerator pedal to other side when/if required
3) A third type is a permanent ‘paddle' fitted to the left of the brake pedal. This is connected to the accelerator pedal on the right of the brake pedal by a rod attached to a plate bolted to the floor of the vehicle. From this horizontal rod there is an upright rod with a roller at the end next to the right foot accelerator pedal. When the left foot accelerator paddle is depressed the horizontal rod activates the upright rod and the roller pushes down and operates the right foot accelerator pedal. Some modern cars can be fitted with a switch or button which activates or deactivates the accelerator pedal either to the right or left of the brake. It should still be possible to drive the vehicle using the standard accelerator pedal.
To determine whether an adaptation is suitable for your particular needs, arrange an assessment at your local Centre.
It is strongly recommended that a person receives tuition using a left foot accelerator pedal before driving on the public highway. There is a Register of Driving Instructors for Disabled People and details of instructors in each county are available on 0800 5593636.