7th April 2009, Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Emirates Driving Institute (EDI), in cooperation with Road and Transport Authority (RTA), Rashid Hospital, Arabian Automobiles Nissan and a leading Swedish company has initiated the first Disabled Driver Training Programme in Dubai for people who are unable to drive using foot pedals.

EDI has teamed up with Swedish experts Swed Adaptations, also know as Anpassarna, who have 40 years of experience in adapting vehicles for the physically disabled.  Sweden has one of the most developed cultures in the world towards their disabled citizens with processes which have matured over many years.

Technicians at Arabian Automobiles were trained and supervised as they adapted two EDI training cars with a hand control system provided by Swed Adaptations.  The single lever, held by the right hand, operates accelerator and brake as well as a number of functions usually activated by the left hand.  This leaves the left hand free for steering at all times and with the aid of a simple device added to the steering wheel full steering control is assured.  A number of EDI instructors and RTA examiners are taking extensive training from qualified and experience Swedish instructor trainers who specialize in this field of work. A license will only be issued when the candidate passes all the standard driving tests required for Dubai at the same level as any able-bodied candidate.

The Licensing Agency of the RTA shares the enthusiasm for this service and has been a key participant in every aspect of its establishment. Regulations and procedures are monitored closely and where necessary, changes will be introduced to accommodate the needs of disabled people who wish to drive.

Staff of Rashid Hospital will take responsibility for the suitability assessments of any potential driver and make their recommendations to the RTA before training can begin.  The programme will be equally suited to new drivers as well as those who would like to return to driving after an accident or illness has left them needing extra help. 

For the new or returning driver, Arabian Automobiles now undertake to fit a hand-control system to any of its range of new vehicles without any detriment to the warranty and with excellent long term after-sales support.

Peter Richardson, General Manager, Emirates Driving Institute, said, "The introduction of the disabled driver training programme launched by EDI can add enormous value to the rehabilitation of disabled individuals. A driving license brings with it independence, self esteem and great opportunity to actively participate in the society in which a person lives.  There are many talented people who could make a wonderful contribution to the future of Dubai but lack the motivation because of mobility"

EDI are now keen to hear from anyone who may wish to be considered for this training and would like to know more information.  For further enquiries on the Disabled Driver Programme kindly contact EDI on: Call Centre: 04 - 2631100 or email: misba@edi-uae.com / info@edi-uae.com

-Ends-

© Press Release 2009