Choosing the Right Car
Different people have varying wants and needs. Here at Motoring Mobility, we understand that our clients have special requirements. However, when choosing the right car, there are minimum standards that all buyers should look out for. Below are some tips on how to choose the car that best fits your needs.
The Seat
Make sure that you are comfortable with the seat. The seat should be high enough so your field of vision is 3 inches above the steering wheel. While seated, the ball of your foot should reach the centre of the brake and accelerator pedals.
Seatbelt
Seatbelts are important – we can’t stress this enough. In choosing the right seat belt, the shoulder belt must be able to go across your ribcage and not under your arm. Meanwhile, the lap belt should go across your hip.
Head Restraint
Properly installed head restraints reduce the distance between the head restraint and back of the neck. This prevents the neck from bending backwards in the event of an abrupt stop or accident.
In choosing a head restraint, make sure that the restraint is as high as the top of your head. It must be positioned as close as possible to the back of your head, and the headrest should touch the middle of your head.
Other Features that You Should Consider
This prevents loss of control during turns. Ideal for older drivers with slow reaction times.
The force of an inflating airbag varies depending on the weight of the person, severity of the accident and distance from the airbags. This is an important feature to consider especially for frail adults who may be injured by the force of inflation.
Older adults are frailer, and are therefore more prone to injuries or death in car crashes. Side airbags protect the head, as well as the pelvis and the torso.
Commonly known as ABS, an anti-lock brake system prevents the steering wheel from locking during hard braking. This allows the driver to regain control of the vehicle immediately.
This is a key feature that helps drivers generate enough braking force to prevent a collision.
This is an ideal feature for those who have difficulty twisting a key.
Low door sills make entering and exiting the vehicle easier as they reduce the need to lift the leg over the door sill.
Power operated seats require less strength to adjust the seats. When choosing for he the right car, go for seats that have 6-way adjustment capabilities. Seats should be able to move forward, backward, upward, downward, further backward, and further forward.
Power mirrors require less strength to adjust, making it easier for drivers who have arthritis or limited strength.
Improve visibility by choosing larger mirrors with wide angle. This one is particularly helpful to those that find it hard looking to the rear when backing up or changing lanes.
Controls with larger knobs and easier to read texts are less distracting and easier to see and adjust.
Do you have other specific needs? Motoring Mobility can help you in choosing the most ideal car for you, and can even assist in further customising your car. Contact us!