Slow degeration and PIP recieved - what mobility car?

[Lynne K]

I have been told that I have a slow degeneration type of MND, no further name given to it. I have just been awarded the higher rate of PIP so I'm searching for a suitable mobility car. I drive without problems. I'm a driving instructor but giving up after my last pupils test tomorrow. I am finding walking and ballancing very difficult so have fallen when getting out of my Fiesta when its in a tight space or on uneven ground. I think a vehicle that's seats sit higher up in relation to the ground would make it easier to get in and out. Does anybody have any suggestions? Also do I need to think of a vehicle that can fit a folded wheelchair to future proof it? Mobility car deals are for 3 years. I want to keep my independance for as long as possible. Any comments are welcomme. Thanks. Lynne

[Lynne K]

Please excuse. I posted my thread about a mobility car in the wrong forum Lynne

[Annb]

Wrong forum, or not, thought I would reply.

I have a Honda Jazz. It has the ability to fit a wheelchair easily in the boot because there is no lip to lift it over. Alternatively, the back seats folds up and a wheelchair can in the large space. that is freed up. The seats are in a good position and it drives well. The Jazz is very reliable and very reasonable to insure and run, I can recommend it without reservation.

Ann

[Lynne K]

Thanks Ann. It'll be on my 'go to see' list.

[Lynne K]

Thanks Ann. It'll be on my 'go to see' list.

[Barry52]

Hi Lynne,

I was at the same position as you 2 years ago. I researched many vehicles and tested a few on my shortlist. I wanted to fit a hoist for my scooter and be able to back onto the seat and swing my legs in. I now have a small folding power wheelchair which also fits. A number of SUV vehicles fall into the category I wanted and in the end I chose aa Audi Q3 because I have had several Audi’s over the years.

Whatever you choose opt for the hoist on your order as I had mine retro fitted and it cost £1200. Of course cost is a consideration and the more expensive vehicles will require a larger contribution but over 3 years the Motability scheme is a no brainer.

Good luck choosing and let us know how you get on.

Barry

[Lynne K]

Thanks Barry. I'll ask about a hoist when I go looking for cars. I saw some Audi's on the net and liked the look of them but the cheapest wanted £495 ish up front contribution. The other specs went up in £000s. I've mostly driven Fords of various sizes. We have a family Focus but I want independance so getting my own car. I'm waiting for a mobility brochure to drop through my letter box. I haven't recieved the confirmation letter from the PIP Dept yet. But they rang me over a week ago to say I got the higher rate. So have to wait for that letter as my proof before I go looking. Lynne

[Barry52]

Hi Lynne,

The Motability website is very good and it has all the vehicle options listed with dimensions which are important for hoist fitting and wheelchair storage. I have friends who have a Ford Kuga which is disability friendly but I don’t know how much Motability want as up front payment.

Enjoy the experience.

Barry x

[Terry]

Hi Lynne;

Defiantly get an automatic. I got a van (WAV) with a electric ram and had some handles put on it which was great because I could run a medium sized scooter into it and get out and drive. I still use it some 7 years later but in the back in a wheelchair with my wife driving.

Just a thought.

Love Terry

[Pinkelle]

Anyone know any thing about the volkswagen caddy?