Pedal Extensions
Pedal Extensions
For many people it can be difficult to sit at a comfortable distance from the steering wheel whilst also being able to operate the pedals through their full range of travel. This can lead to people sitting close to the steering wheel so that they can reach the pedals, which is dangerous in an accident as the driver is too close to the steering wheel airbag. Or it can lead to people stretching for the pedals and suffering from pain in their legs or lower back because of this.
These issues can be solved by fitting pedal extensions, which are a bespoke fitment to suit the individual user and vehicle. They can be fitted to both manual and automatic vehicles. Pedal extensions fall into two main categories which are summarised below.
Short Pedal Extensions
These pedal extensions are fixed to the original pedal arms and give an extension length of between 1-4 inches (25-100mm). The extensions are fully adjustable at point of fitting to suit the individual user and vehicle, and for the majority of people these will be more than sufficient to allow them to achieve a comfortable driving position.
These extensions are not quick release, so if someone else is driving the vehicle it is worth considering that they will have to use the extensions too. In most cases, this is not usually an issue and the other driver can simply slide the seat back further than they usually would and pull the steering column towards them.
Long Pedal Extensions
For persons of very short stature, long pedal extensions give extensions of 5 inches and above. These feature an additional pedal box and a false floor for the user to rest their heels on. The new pedal box retains good feel for the pedals by keeping the pivot point a reasonable distance from the pedal itself. The footrest allows for better control of the pedals because the drivers feet are not hanging in the air as they operate the pedals.
Similarly to the short pedal extensions, these are fully adjustable at point of fitting to suit the individual user and vehicle. An additional feature of these extensions is a quick release mechanism so that another driver can use the vehicle also with the normal pedals.
Frequently Asked Questions
The answers to the questions we most regularly get asked. See our FAQs page for more or contact us team for anything more specific.
Pedal Extensions are designed to extends the pedals further towards the driver, they operate in the same manner as the original pedal. You can watch the demonstrative video linked above to see this in action.
Prices for Left Foot Accelerators can vary depending factors like the vehicle in question, and the length of extension required. Through the Motability Scheme these controls are also subsidised. To quickly get an accurate price please contact us on 01332 863742.
This is one of the most common questions we get asked here at Des Gosling Mobility, and the easiest way to find out is to simply contact us and ask. Our staff are familiar with these adaptations and can usually give you an answer straight away.
Almost all driving adaptations allow someone else to drive the car as usual. Depending on the adaptation, they can either be folded away, turned off, or partially removed using a quick release mechanism. In some cases, nothing needs to be done at all. To check what needs to be done for your particular adaptation get in touch with our team.
The Motability Scheme provides an affordable, worry-free way for people with disabilities to lease a car, scooter or powered wheelchair in exchange for their mobility allowance. Des Gosling Mobility are proud to be a Motability Accredited Company which means we are fully licensed to fit vehicles with all manner of adaptations. The Scheme is operated by Motability Operations Ltd, under contract to Motability, a registered Charity.
