The Swedish National Road and Transport Research Institute (VTI) conducted a survey of 1,000 disabled car drivers in Sweden. The questionnaire focused on the driver's disability, the equipment in the car, safety and accident involvement. Nearly 30% of drivers had a spinal cord injury and 17% had polio. Three quarters used a wheelchair, but only 7% sat in the wheelchair while driving. Half of the respondents used the car every, or almost every, day of the week. Common car adaptations include automatic transmission, servo-powered steering, servo-powered brakes and hand-operated controls. Most drivers felt safe behind the steering wheel and had confidence in their car. Young disabled drivers were more often involved in accidents than middle-aged and elderly drivers. The risk of a disabled driver being involved or injured in an accident was on the same level as for drivers in general. Suggested improvements for cars for disabled people are outlined.
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