The report describes vehicle safety problems reported in interviews with 460 physically limited drivers and 41 physically limited non-drivers. The problems reported involved operation of primary and secondary controls, operating other vehicle mechanisms (e.g., restraints, seat adjustments), seeing properly, getting in and out of the vehicle, and handling certain tasks outside the car. The following needs were identified on the vasis of information obtained during the study: (1)Better dissemination of information to physically limited drivers concerning vehicle design considerations, equipment options, available aids and devices, operating procedures, and procedures for maintaining adaptive control equipment; (2)Development of additional assistive devices, including a secondary control stalk, rear vision system, supportive restraint systems, and a means of preventing feet from sliding under foot pedals; and (3)Improvements in adaptive control systems, including improvements in reliability, comfort, compactness, and physical appearance.
Abstract