Why is Mobility for All Important?
The average cost of a handicap accessible van and all necessary driving equipment is $100,000, which is three times more expensive than the average cost of a car. These costs include, but are not limited to,
- New - $18,000 - $20,000
- Basic hand controls and wheelchair securement - $3,000 - $4,000
- Primary and secondary driving controls can be $35,000 - $60,000
How My Accessible Van Has Made Me More Independent
My name is Jenny Siegle and I am 25 years old. I was paralyzed from a rare virus, Transverse Myelitis, at nine months of age. As a result, I am an incomplete quadriplegic (C4/C5 level). Despite not being able to walk, I have led a very productive life. I have graduated from college, lived on my own, and won the title of Ms. Wheelchair Colorado 2004. Even with all these accomplishments, I still felt there was a very important obstacle I needed to overcome. In 2005, I finally learned how to drive.
I had to travel to Pennsylvania twice that year to be evaluated and go through drivers training. Thanks to Tim Brant and Brian Martin of Brant's Driving School, I received my driver's license and purchased my very own Toyota Sienna. My van is equipped with high tech driving equipment and adaptations that allow me to be a self sufficient and safe driver.
Having my own van has made an enormous impact on my life. I work in sports journalism and being able to have the flexibility of driving has allowed me to advance my career. I can now go cover stories on one part of town and return to our TV studio without having to rely on someone else. Being independent has impacted my social life as well. I can go out with my friends and family and not have to always worry about getting a ride. Even though I have only had my van for a short amount of time, I cannot imagine my life without it!
Jenny Siegle, Spokeswoman