Gear Selector and Handbrake Adaptations
Adaptation Guide Number 7
Gear selector and 
handbrake adaptations can assist people who have problems with grip and/or strength or have upper limb difficulties.
Most of the mechanical adaptations for handbrakes and gear selectors use levers to operate the release button; this reduces the effort required to depress the button. Some use handles that are squeezed to depress the release button. Handbrake levers can also be moved to the right side of the driver's seat; for some people this may make it more difficult to enter the vehicle.
This adaptation is bolted to the gear selector stalk. The hinged lever is pushed down to depress the gear selector button. It may be possible to use your arm rather than hand to apply or release these types of adaptations.
An electrical switch can be fitted to enable easy operation of the existing parking brake. Alternatively for those people who require precise positioning of the parking brake or gear selector, electronic switches can be fitted in any position.
You would need to discuss with a car adaptation specialist garage whether it is possible to fit these types of adaptation to your chosen vehicle.
Points to consider…
• As there is no quick release mechanism, any other person driving the vehicle would also have to use the adaptation.
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May 2006