The Freedom to Say “I’ll Drive”

Bringing Adaptive Driving to Canadians

Driving a safe and reliable vehicle offers many of us a level of independence that we often take for granted. For those living with physical limitations, driving a vehicle that’s been uniquely adapted for them can make a world of difference.

That’s why CARP has partnered with March of Dimes Canada (MODC) and National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) to educate and help make driving accessible to all Canadians.  For someone living with a disability, driving requires modifications to make a vehicle safe and serviceable.

Be Unstoppable Like Tracy

Paralympic athlete and March of Dimes Canada’s Adaptive Driving Ambassador “Unstoppable Tracy Schmitt”, knows the importance and freedom that comes from being able to drive. As a quadruple amputee, driving her own vehicle has given Tracy immeasurable independence and has allowed her to pursue her dreams on her own terms. Tracy: “It was amazing – Everything changed with my first adapted vehicle. It opened up my life. Simple things you take for granted were finally natural for me as well.

Quality Assurance Program (QAP) by NMEDA

An Adapted Vehicle is an automobile that can be fitted with adapted foot pedals, hand controls, electronic controls or physically altered to allow for wheelchair entry, with or without lifts, or custom wheelchair storage. Trust the expertise of a mobility dealer that is accredited through the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA).  Every NMEDA member has expertly trained staff, certified technicians that meet and exceed all federal and industry safety regulations, and specialized vehicle conversion options designed to meet your unique needs. All NMEDA Dealers are inspected annually by a third-party auditor to ensure compliance with NMEDA Guidelines and the QAP Rules.The expansive network of NMEDA member dealers will help get you on the road to independence. NMEDA works together within the adaptive community to provide quality, safe and reliable transportation to people with disabilities. It is NMEDA’s belief that safety and product integrity can best be achieved by establishing legislation and regulatory rules that set standards for mobility equipment installation.

Stay Safe With Tracy’s Essential Winter Driving Tips

Roads are likely to be slick or icy during the winter months. Hazards such as black ice and drifting snow can seriously affect handling and braking abilities, especially if you drive a larger mobility vehicle. Tracy’s Five Essential Winter Driving Tips will help you stay on track.

#AccessibleDriving

Let’s change lives! Help us spread the word.

Please help make sure that Canadians know about these services. Help us spread the word by sharing the video above and informing yourself about MODC and NMEDA.  

And don’t forget to visit Marchofdimes.ca/drive today!