Drive Your Way! 🚀 Unleash the freedom of mobility.
The Freedom Staff 2.0 Handicap Driving Hand Controls is an upgraded solution designed to convert any vehicle into a safe and easily operable machine for individuals with mobility challenges. With its universal fit, adjustable features, and durable construction, it ensures a seamless driving experience across various vehicle types.
Manufacturer | Sylvan Inc. |
Brand | Freedom Staff |
Item Weight | 4.4 pounds |
Package Dimensions | 23.5 x 9.5 x 3.2 inches |
Item model number | HC3N |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Manufacturer Part Number | HC3N |
T**A
Requires learning muscle memory; poor assembly instructions, but simple.
This device works surprisingly well. My need arises from progressive idiopathic neuropathy. My coordination is mediocre, so I felt I needed to drive around the neighborhood in 10-20 minute sessions for about a week. At first it was frightening. I gradually expanded my range and am running errands about 2 weeks after installation. This morning a bicycle veered suddenly in front of me and I reflexively pushed the brake lever. Muscle memory established.Installation is simple, but instructions are meager, so it took me awhile. No tools are needed, but keep track of washers. The ball bearing springs were very strong so it took me a while to adjust them. The strap should support both rods and goes over the steering column assembly. I set the lever just under the steering wheel to provide freedom of movement in steering. I replaced the spinner with a black nylon one that clips directly on the steering wheel.The device is not fixed, so the lever glides back and forth horizontally. Consequently, I had to learn to control its position and coordinate my steering hand movement while cornering. I also needed to learn timing of shifting from forward to reverse and vice versa when backing out of a parking space or doing a Y turn. I have not attempted parallel parking yet.The device is stainless steel and is sturdy, with the exception of the foam handle sleeve. I would have preferred a harder rubber and suspect that the handle sleeve will need replacement. The remainder of the rig will outlast me.I don't know whether a fixed installation would be more satisfactory. I don't expect to ever find out, as this device, once learned, is entirely satisfactory so far.
R**S
Works great with a little tweaking!
I like these controls and it works great for me. The device is well built, the pedal clamps attach very securely, and driving is easy with just a little practice.I had only two issues:1. The strap that goes over the steering column to suspend the controls at the proper height slides very easily, not only front to back, but also laterally. That allows the the handle to shift while I'm driving, resulting in an unsafe feeling. I added an adhesive velcro strip between the strap and steering column to hold the strap tightly, and that worked great. In my opinion, velcro straps should ship with the device to hold it more securely.2. The spinner knob that comes with it is cheesy and poor quality compared to the hand control device itself. I bought a different one online that works much better.All in all, I'm very pleased with the product after the improvements described above. The price is reasonable, the portability is great, and driving with it is a breeze compared to the "white knuckling" I had to do with poor leg strength and slow reaction times operating the pedals. Installing and removing the control is a snap and takes only a few minutes after the first couple times. I have my mobility, independence, and driving confidence back thanks to this device!
R**E
Works better than feet!
What an awesome product! It was easy to install, easy to adjust to fit me, and super easy to use.I have been slowly losing the use of my legs. I finally had to stop driving as it was getting dangerous. This device has given me back the ability to drive. I actually drive better with my hand than I did with my feet! It has put the fun back into driving for me again.I’m 6’8” tall and drive a 2018 Nissan Titan. It fits securely below the steering wheel, and is easily accessible with my left hand. It is easy to fine tune the fit and function. I put it on, drove around my neighborhood and then took it to a vacant shopping center to practice. It only took about 30 minutes to get comfortable with it. I now drive to work and back in heavy urban traffic and it’s easy ! I put the spinner on, but took it back off as I did not like using it. Nothing wrong with it, just a personal choice.I would highly recommend the device for anyone who is temporarily or permanently in need of hand controls. Money well spent!
B**T
Free at last, thank God almighty, I am free at last!
I lost the ability to drive two years ago after losing the full use of my right leg from a nerve disease. It was one of the hardest changes that I had to make. However, thanks to these hand controls, I am able to drive again. My husband and I have just one car and it is not in our budget to buy a second car with permanent hand controls at this time, so this is the perfect option for us. It takes only a few moments to take them on and off. It was quick to learn to use and it comes quite natural. Though braking on a curve while trying to hit the blinker can be a bit tricky. I will say that the plastic steering knob is cheap and flimsy but the rest is well built and wonderful. I feel safe using it. It is very comfortable to use. So of the other hand controls out there look like your hands would hurt after a short time.These were by far the best purchase that we have made. I feel free again!
F**H
OK for the low price
This is just an ok product if you need something quickly and are budget constrained. If you are intermediate/long term disabled and are willing to spend a couple of thousand dollars for a professional install, you will find safer and more usable alternatives. Menox brand is one such and there are others like that.PROS:+ Low cost+ Installs/removes quickly if your hands are usable and you can bend down with your body.CONS:- Not very ergonomic and relies on the twisting force of the wrist to function. If you have strong fore-arm then it's ok. Otherwise, especially on long distance trips your hand will get fatigued.- You don't get a good feel for the force you are applying on gas/brake. This is not a problem when the vehicle is already moving, but when you start from stop, especially if you need to move quickly (for example, while making quick left-turns on a signal), sometimes the vehicle will lurch forward if you apply too much force on gas. Not particularly safe especially in the beginning when you aren't still used to the controls.
Trustpilot
1 month ago
2 months ago