At General Motors, we know just how important mobility is if you have a disability. That’s why the GM Mobility Program offers a reimbursement of up to $1,0005 towards the cost of adapting an eligible new GM vehicle.
GETTING STARTED
Getting the vehicle you love adapted with the right equipment can be a simple process. To start, we recommend you:
Obtain an evaluation or visit your medical practitioner
First find a driver assessment facility and arrange for a complete evaluation. There are a number of facilities across the country, but if you’re not sure where to find one, you can always get in touch with the Ministry of Transportation or contact us at the GM Mobility Program. Your assessment should include suggestions about your driving and a list of vehicle modification recommendations.
If you already know what kind of adaptive equipment you need, you won’t need an evaluation. Your equipment installer will only need a physician’s authorization form.
Contact the Provincial Ministry of Transportation
In most provinces, people are required to report any changes in their medical status to the Provincial Ministry of Transportation. When you report a change in your medical status, the Ministry may conduct a medical review, and may need to alter your driving privileges for your safety. Also keep in mind that failure to report a change in your medical status may put your driver’s licence status in jeopardy altogether.
Eligible Equipment
To be eligible for a GM reimbursement for up to $1,0005, your adaptive equipment must be:
-Permanently installed in an eligible vehicle
-Installed for a driver or passenger with a permanent disability
-Vehicle conversion must be completed for eligible participants within 12 months of the new vehicle purchase/lease date.
-Regular production options and GM accessories are not eligible for reimbursement.
The following equipment is eligible for reimbursement:
Vehicle Entry
- Automatic Door Opener (when used with lift)
- Assist Handle
- Assist Step
- Ramp
- Transfer Platform
- Wheelchair and/or Scooter Lift
Brake /Accelerator Systems
- Brakes — Reduced Effort
- Brake System — Emergency Backup
- Parking Brake — Push/Pull Control
- Parking Brake — Electric
- Parking Brake — Extension Lever
- Hand Controls
- Servo-Assisted Hand Controls
- Left Foot Accelerator
Seats
- Vinyl Seat Cover (Front Seating Area Only)6
- Extended Travel Transfer Seat (non-OEM Only)7
- Safety Belt Extenders
Steering Systems
- Adaptive Steering Devices
- Steering Controls
- Foot-Control Steering
- Horizontal Steering
- Steering Column Extension
- Steering System — Emergency Backup
- Steering System — Reduced and Zero Effort
Driver Position
- Driving Consoles for Relocation of Secondary Controls
- Elbow Switches
- Gear Selector Lever for Left Hand
- Power Channels/Power Pan
- Turn Signal Lever for Right Hand
- Wheelchair Tie-Down and/or Lockdown System
Other Vehicle Modifications
- Joystick Driving Systems
- Inverter Installation
- Lowered Floor
- Quad Key Holder/Turner
- Raised Roof/Door (when used with a lift)
- Alert systems
Choose a Vehicle
Get your driver assessment professional involved in the process. There is a broad range of vehicles and adaptive equipment available, but finding the right match can be challenging. Space limitations, vehicle use and the type of equipment you need are all factors you should consider when you’re doing your research. Remember if you need help choosing the right vehicle, get in touch with your GM Canada dealer, an adaptive equipment installer or your assessment professional.
Find a Qualified Equipment Installer
Before you choose an adaptive equipment dealer, shop around and ask about their qualifications, warranty, service practices and capabilities. Consider more than just the initial cost, and if you think it’s necessary, ask the company for a list of references. If you’re not sure where to find qualified installers in your area, the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA), your provincial rehabilitation services agency and the Ministry of Transportation are good sources of information.
Get to know NMEDA
NMEDA is a non-profit trade association of mobility equipment dealers, driver rehabilitation specialists, and other professionals dedicated to broadening the opportunities for people with disabilities. To make sure you have the chance to drive or be transported in a vehicle modified with adaptive equipment, they maintain an up-to-date list of dealers and installers across the country. Use the NMEDA search tool to find an adaptive equipment dealer near you.
Find out more about NMEDA or contact them at 1-800-833-0427.
Make Sure You Get Proper Training
The equipment installer and/or driver evaluator should train you in the proper use, care and maintenance of your adaptive equipment and vehicle control system.