Everyone’s car is somehow unique to them. Some have a specially selected colour. Others have an added back support or a mobile phone holder. And many have adaptations designed to better serve the 1.1 million people in Ireland who live with a disability.
At RedClick, we understand that mobility is a key part of fostering independence and freedom for people with a disability. It’s why we’re proud to support IWA initiatives like the Run n’ Roll and Fitness Inclusion Games.
If you’re driving with a disability, we can help with practical insurance advice, tailored support, and affordable car insurance you can trust. Let’s dive into our most commonly asked questions.
What kind of adaptations are available for drivers with disabilities?
Vehicle adaptations today are flexible, ranging from small adjustments to more advanced modifications, depending on the driver’s requirements.
According to the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI), some of the most common include:
- hand controlled driving systems
- swivel seats
- Alterations to pedal controls and positions
- wheelchair ramps or lifts
- Extension of seat rails
Wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs) usually involve more robust changes, as they are specifically converted so a person can travel while seated in their wheelchair. These might include:
- Removal of seats to accommodate a wheelchair
- Installation of a wheelchair lift
- Lowering of the floor of the vehicle
- Restraints for wheelchairs
As you can see, there are lots of options available, which can get confusing. There is plenty of help and information available, though, including this video from Irish Wheelchair Association.
How will I know what adaptations are right for me?
Choosing the right setup starts with understanding how you drive.
The National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) explains that drivers may need to provide a medical report if a condition affects their ability to drive. In some cases, this leads to a referral to Irish Wheelchair Association or the Disabled Drivers Association of Ireland (DDAI), which provides an on-road driving assessment service.
Over a period of about an hour and a half, a specialist driving assessor will ask questions and assess your driving habits and then offer practical solutions that will help make driving safe and comfortable.
When it comes to selecting the actual adaptations to be carried out, you should consider their advice as well as the recommendations of an NSAI-approved conversion company.
Is there support available to ease the financial burden?
Adaptations and specialised vehicles can be expensive, so cost is a valid concern. Thankfully, there is support in place for drivers and passengers with disabilities.
Through the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Scheme, eligible applicants may benefit from:
- Remission or repayment of vehicle registration tax (VRT)
- Repayment of value-added tax (VAT) on the purchase of a vehicle
- Repayment of VAT on the cost of adapting a vehicle
These measures can significantly reduce the cost of purchasing a vehicle, which will go some way to helping to pay for adaptations.
If you qualify for the scheme, you might also get some additional benefits, including an exemption from motor tax and toll road fees. There are more details available on Citizens Information, with links to the Revenue Commissioners and other bodies who can help you with this process.
How does insurance work for adapted vehicles?
This part is straightforward. Getting insurance for a car with adaptations in Ireland works just the same as getting insurance for a car without them.
All Insurance relies on basic factors such as:
- driving history
- claims record
- vehicle type and value
- Location and mileage,
- Cost of any declared adaptations
When choosing the right insurance cover, comprehensive cover is often chosen where vehicles have significant adaptations as this provides broader protection for both the vehicle and the adaptations. Therefore, ensure you pick the right cover that suits your needs. If in doubt, contact your insurer.
You can also add a named driver* to your policy, such as a carer, so that the named driver can drive the car when/if required.
You must disclose any changes to the car when getting a quote, but beyond that, cover is arranged in the same way as standard motor insurance, with no difference in the price or product. Of course, you will still need to compare prices, to make sure you’re getting the best deal for insurance in Ireland.
Do I need to change how I drive?
That’ll depend on the support you need. If you’ve made adaptations to your car, you might need to adjust to new controls, a different way of using the pedals, or a change in how to enter or exit the vehicle. t most people find confidence builds quickly with practice.
If you’re considering buying a new car, adapting a vehicle, or getting a new insurance quote, there’s no time like the present. With government and community support, many drivers find the process easier than they expected and well worth the effort.
If you’d like to talk to experienced people, reach out to Irish Wheelchair Association. They provide tailored help and advice as well as in-person connections through 65 community centres across Ireland. You can also get involved in events like the Run n’ Roll in September, which RedClick proudly sponsors. We hope to see you there!
*Named Driver is subject to underwriting criteria, terms and conditions.
Other Useful Links:
- What To Do If You Need Vehicle Breakdown Assistance in Ireland
- Top Tips To Servicing Your Car
- Monthly Car Checks
- Essential Items To Keep In Your Car