Jane Dotson
Spinal injuries can be extremely costly, with the first-year cost of paraplegia being $152,000 and quadriplegia being $417,000. Luckily, there are various insurance options available to help cover these costs. While auto insurance typically doesn't cover the cost of hand controls, medical insurance, disability programs, or grants for adaptive equipment might. Portable hand controls, such as the Quicstick, can be purchased for under $300.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average hospital stay for spinal injury survivors | 15 days |
| Average rehabilitation duration for spinal injury survivors | 44 days |
| First-year cost of paraplegia | $152,000 |
| First-year cost of quadriplegia | $417,000 |
| Percentage of spinal cord injury survivors covered by private health insurance | 52% |
| Auto insurance coverage for hand controls | Not included, but can be added |
| Cost of hand controls | $1,000 |
| Cost of Quicstick portable hand controls | $209.99 |
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What You'll Learn
Auto insurance for disabled drivers
Disabled drivers can benefit from various vehicle modifications that facilitate their driving experience. For instance, individuals with foot and leg problems exclusive to the right side of the body may opt for a left-foot accelerator, which offers a larger base with both gas and brake pedals. Mechanical hand controls are another option for those with full function of their right hand, allowing them to grasp the bar and use their thumb to trigger the button. These modifications cater to a range of conditions, including spinal cord injuries, foot drop, stroke-related weaknesses, cerebral palsy, and arthritis.
When it comes to insurance, it is essential to disclose any car modifications to your insurance company. This transparency ensures coverage and reimbursement in the event of an accident or claim. Additionally, consider opting for a telematics or usage-based insurance policy, which can offer discounts of up to 40% for safe driving habits and low mileage. Another way to save on insurance is by bundling home and auto insurance policies, taking advantage of multi-vehicle discounts, or inquiring about other standard discounts offered by the insurer.
While insurers cannot discriminate based solely on disability, they may charge higher rates if a disability causes impairments that affect driving safety. For example, a medical condition like epilepsy may increase quotes due to the potential safety risk of a driver having a seizure while operating a vehicle. In such cases, a doctor's assessment of the individual's fitness to drive is crucial, as it can impact insurance rates and driving privileges.
It is worth noting that global affiliated programs or non-profits may offer discounts based on disability status. Additionally, automobile manufacturers often have vehicle mobility programs that provide rebates for special modifications, and some even offer reimbursement for disability-adapted equipment. It is recommended to explore these options and consult with insurance professionals to find the best coverage for your specific needs as a disabled driver.
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Medical insurance coverage
In general, auto insurance does not typically cover the cost of hand controls or other vehicle modifications. However, medical insurance may provide coverage for such equipment, especially if it is deemed medically necessary. Additionally, disability programs or grants for adaptive equipment may offer financial assistance to help offset the cost of portable hand controls.
It is worth noting that insurance companies cannot directly discriminate based on physical abilities. However, factors related to a disability, such as vehicle modifications and medical equipment, can affect your insurance rates. For example, if you have a generic car and modify it by adding hand controls, you will want to ensure that your insurance covers both the car's value and the cost of the modifications.
In the context of spinal cord injuries, about 52% of survivors are covered by private health insurance. Medicare and Medicaid also offer healthcare benefits, including hospital stays, doctor bills, prescription drugs, and additional healthcare costs, to disabled individuals under the age of 65. Supplemental Security Income provides supplemental income to those with disabilities under the age of 65.
Given the potential financial burden associated with spinal cord injuries, it is crucial to carefully review your insurance policy and explore all available options to ensure you have the necessary coverage and support.
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Cost of hand controls
The cost of hand controls for vehicles depends on the type of controls and the make and model of the car. Prices typically range from $2,700 to $8,000. The Quicstick from Living Spinal, for example, costs $209.99.
There are a variety of hand controls available for people with different needs. Mechanical hand controls, for instance, are ideal for people with foot drop, a temporary foot injury, a spinal cord injury, or one-sided leg and foot weakness secondary to a stroke. They are designed to be easy to install and use, with minimal modifications required. Mechanical Push/Pull Hand Controls are the most popular type, transferring the functions to push to brake and pull to accelerate. Creative Controls Inc. hand controls are another option, designed for people with limited arm and hand mobility. They feature a low-effort design that reduces the amount of force needed to activate the controls and can accommodate a wide range of hand sizes.
For those who only struggle with using the accelerator, a left-foot accelerator can be placed in nearly any car, as they require little to no installation. They offer a larger base that has both a gas and brake pedal where the driver can place their left foot.
Electronic hand controls are also available. An Electronic Ring Accelerator, for example, is fitted over the steering wheel and provides an alternative style of accelerating. It requires very little strength to operate, making it ideal for those with limited hand dexterity. It can be used on its own or paired with a mechanical push brake handle to transfer all functions from foot to hand.
Hand controls can be purchased directly from suppliers, who often provide the complete service from assessment to install and after-care. However, there is also some financial assistance available to purchase hand controls if required, such as the Motability Scheme.
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Spinal injury rehabilitation
Spinal cord injuries (SCI) can cause serious disability and complications, interrupting the normal communication between the brain and the body. The treatment and rehabilitation process is often long, expensive, and exhausting, requiring a multidisciplinary approach. The patient's family, a physiotherapist, occupational therapist, dietician, psychologist, speech therapist, social worker, and other consultant specialists are all part of the patient's support system.
Rehabilitation after a spinal cord injury can help prevent complications and restore some functions lost due to the injury. The rehab process will depend on the type and severity of the injury, as well as the patient's individual needs. It may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and learning new ways to perform daily tasks.
A physiatrist, or physical medicine and rehabilitation physician, typically leads the rehab team. They specialize in treating a wide range of issues, including spinal cord injuries, and are experts in managing pain and musculoskeletal disorders. Rehab nurses, who have specialized education in the physical care and health promotion of individuals with spinal cord injuries, are also part of the team.
During rehab, patients may learn how to move around, use a wheelchair, or walk with braces. They will also be taught how to prevent and manage complications related to their injury, such as bowel and bladder dysfunction. Therapists will assist patients in performing different exercises to improve their strength and mobility while taking precautions to prevent further injuries.
Additionally, the rehab team will help patients regain independence by teaching them how to perform daily activities, such as getting in and out of a car, rolling over in bed, and bathing. They will also assist in arranging support from family, friends, or care providers to meet the patient's day-to-day needs at home.
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Private health insurance
In the UK, around 50,000 people are living with a spinal cord injury, with 2,500 new cases reported each year. The costs of living with a spinal cord injury are high and can include hospital stays, doctor bills, prescription drugs, rehabilitation, and additional healthcare costs.
Medicare and Medicaid are other options that can provide coverage for individuals with spinal cord injuries. Medicare offers healthcare benefits, including hospital insurance and medical insurance, to disabled individuals under the age of 65. Medicaid, on the other hand, is a program designed to meet the needs of low-income individuals, and its coverage and eligibility vary from state to state.
In terms of specific treatments, spinal fusion surgery is often covered by private health insurance providers, subject to waiting periods and the terms and conditions of the policy. Additionally, prescription drug plans (PDPs) and Medicare Advantage plans (MAs) are available to help with the cost of prescription medications.
When it comes to technology and assistive devices, private health insurance may provide some coverage for items such as alternative keyboards, mice, voice recognition software, and smart home devices. However, it is important to carefully review the terms and conditions of your private insurance plan to understand what specific items and services are covered.
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Frequently asked questions
Portable hand controls are devices that allow people with certain limitations to operate a vehicle. They are ideal for people with foot drop, a temporary foot injury, or a spinal cord injury.
Auto insurance typically does not cover the cost of hand controls. However, car insurance will cover any equipment that is attached to the vehicle, as long as you have the right coverage on your policy.
While medical insurance may cover the cost of portable hand controls, it is not guaranteed. It is recommended to check with your insurance provider to understand the specific terms and conditions of your plan.
Yes, alternative options to help cover the cost of portable hand controls include disability programs and grants for adaptive equipment.
The cost of portable hand controls can vary depending on the type and sophistication of the controls. Basic hand controls can cost around $1,000, while more advanced systems, such as the Scott Driving System, can cost $100,000 or more.
