Wheelchair user driving towards target

After sustaining traumatic injuries to his spine following a motorbike accident, a Lynn man has been given new driving possibilities.

James Kipling, 24, had metal implants inserted into his back following an accident two years ago.

Now a wheelchair user who is unable to walk, James has begun to investigate how he can learn to drive a vehicle for the first time.

East Anglian DriveAbility (EAD), which helps disabled and elderly people become mobile and independent, has been assisting James.

“I felt quite nervous when I arrived at EAD but I was very impressed from the start,” James said.

“I was able to operate the accelerator and brake from the steering wheel, which gave me a good idea of how I could drive a car whilst in a safe, controlled environment.”

After successfully completing an assessment on reaction speeds, vision, steering ability and braking strengths, James was ready to proceed to a dual-controlled vehicle accompanied by a driving advisor.

Following his assessment James was provided with a written report which he took to his GP for medical approval to drive.

He is now applying for a Motability vehicle fitted with the recommended driving controls and is looking forward to applying for his driving test.