Mark Ormrod is veteran, Invictus Games athlete, author, fundraiser, and Motability Scheme Ambassador. He has been a customer of the Scheme for over 15 years and says it has been essential in helping him stay independent.
Mark wants to let others know how the Motability Scheme can help them too. In this Q&A, he talks about his experiences as a disabled driver and shares advice for others.
Q: What are common misconceptions about disabled drivers?
A: So, I think a common misconception that I think people have is that our options are limited. That could not be further from the truth. I’ve been a disabled driver now for over 15 years. I’ve driven a range of wonderful vehicles, and the Motability Scheme continually updates their database to offer an even great range of vehicles.
View the latest cars available on the Motability Scheme price list
Q: How has driving technology evolved for drivers with disabilities?
A: I think one of the things that has changed the game is the advancement in technology. Now I have some hand control in my car which utlilise Bluetooth technology that enable me to drive, and I’ve met people that even have the devices that are voice activated that do not just enable them to drive, but they make the whole experience enjoyable.
Q: How do you manage long-distance driving with a disability?
A: I actually do quite a lot of long-distance driving, and one of the things that I found very useful to manage those trips is planning, you know, in advance, I like to plan my route. I like to plan my stops and I like to have my car set up so it’s comfortable for me, so that I can enjoy that journey.
Planning for long distance drives
It’s important to feel confident and comfortable when you’re making any journey in your car. The planning process is a big part of that. Whether you have a petrol or diesel car, or an electric vehicle (EV), it’s key to know where and when you will be stopping along your journey.
If you’re considering an electric vehicle (EV) or have already made the switch, it’s worth reading these top tips for planning a long car journey. They cover advice on route planning, public charging and more.
Q: What advice do you have for new disabled drivers?
A: If I could give some advice to anybody who is a newly disabled driver, it would be to start small. It does feel a little bit strange in the beginning, but as with anything, the more you do it, the easier and the more comfortable it becomes. And if you need to, why not reach out to a more experienced disabled driver who can give you some help and some support and some guidance.
Q: How do you maintain your independence as a disabled driver?
A: So I think the key to maintaining and enjoying your independence is to utilise the Scheme to its fullest. So pick a car that suits you, that suits your lifestyle, and that suits your independence and do exactly the same with the adaptations you need. Pick some adaptations that suit you, that suit your situation, and enable you to enjoy driving to its fullest.
Q: How do you deal with car maintenance and repairs?
A: Dealing with maintenance and repairs through the Motability Scheme is as easy as it possibly can be. I recently had the rear window of my vehicle broken. Within 45 minutes I was at the local Autoglass centre and within an hour and a half, I was back on the road enjoying my day.
Your windscreen repairs are covered
If you notice a chip in your windscreen, you will need to book in a repair. It’s best to do this as soon as possible, as a chip in your windscreen can be dangerous. As a Motability Scheme customer, your windscreen repairs are covered in your lease package with our partner, Autoglass, at no extra cost.
There is however a payment required if your windscreen needs replacing, so it’s important to get repairs as soon as you can. The quickest way to schedule an appointment with Autoglass is to book online.
Q: How do you handle emergency situations on the road?
A: Dealing with emergencies can be a little bit tricky as a disabled driver, but the Motability Scheme offers breakdown cover as a part of the lease package, so you can rest assured that wherever you are in the UK, if you are unfortunate enough to experience a breakdown, someone will be with you as soon as possible to get you back on the road and make sure that you’re never left stranded.
Your full lease package with the Motability Scheme
As a Motability Scheme customer, you’ll get access to a brand-new car as well as the worry-free package which includes breakdown cover, servicing, and insurance for up to three drivers.
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