Driving with Confidence This Winter: Accessible Vehicle Safety Tips from Mobility in Motion

As the winter chill sets in, it’s not just our homes that need to be adapted, for many in the

disability community, preparing your vehicle for colder, icier journeys is just as vital. At

Mobility in Motion, we’re passionate about helping drivers and passengers with reduced

mobility stay safe, warm, and independent on the road. In this post, we’ll explore how winter-specific preparations and adaptations come together to make accessible driving more reliable.

Why Winter Matters for Adapted Vehicles

Driving in winter presents added challenges for everyone: reduced traction, battery issues, freezing fluids, decreased visibility, and more. For drivers and passengers who rely on adaptations such as hand controls, swivel seats, transfer plates, hoists, or wheelchair storage, it’s vital to carry out winter-ready maintenance.

Key Winter Adaptations for Accessible Vehicles

Here are some of the most valuable adaptations and features to consider, based on our

winter-preparation advice:

1. Winter Tyres

• Cold-weather (or “winter”) tyres are designed with rubber compounds that

stay flexible in low temperatures, giving better grip on icy or snowy roads.

2. Driving Aids

• If you're using driving aids, getting them checked before winter is a wise

move to ensure they’re operating at their best.

3. Vehicle Access Adaptations

• Transfer plates, person hoists and swivel seats help with safe transfers in and

out of a vehicle. During icy weather, minimizing the risk when transferring is

more crucial than ever.

Minimise the risk when transferring

4. Interior Comfort & Visibility

• Heated seats or heated seat covers are a winter lifesaver especially for those

who may have reduced sensation or mobility; they improve comfort and help

avoid muscle stiffness.

• Use winter-grade windshield washer fluid to prevent freezing and help you

keep your windows and mirrors clear.

5. Mobility Aid Storage

• If you travel with a wheelchair or scooter, consider using a weatherproof roof

box or a boot hoist to protect equipment from ice, snow, and road salt.

6. Parking and Manoeuvring Aids

• Equip your vehicle with rear-view cameras or parking sensors to help with

manoeuvring in low visibility, wintery weather.

• Panoramic mirrors can also help by extending your field of view and reducing

blind spots.

7. Emergency Winter Kit

• Every vehicle should have a winter emergency kit, but for adapted vehicles,

this is even more important: include a thermal blanket, hand warmers, non-

perishable snacks, a torch with spare batteries, extra medication if needed,

and a phone charger.

Winter Maintenance Tips for Adapted Vehicles

Beyond adaptations, regular maintenance is essential. Here's how to align your winter checks with the needs of an accessible vehicle:

• Battery Health: Cold weather reduces battery performance, so check your battery’s

age and capacity before winter.

• Tyre Pressure and Tread: Tyre pressure drops in the cold, so check regularly. Also

ensure your tread depth is safe.

• Fluids: Keep coolant, washer fluid, and engine oil topped up. Use antifreeze where

needed, and choose a washer fluid that won’t freeze.

• De-Icing Tools: Carry a scraper and de-icer spray to deal with frost.

• Windscreen Covers: These are helpful to prevent frost forming overnight, saving

time and energy in the morning.

Every adapted vehicle should have a winter emergency kit

Funding & Financial Support for Winter-Ready Adaptations

We understand that choosing the right vehicle adaptations whether for winter safety or

everyday accessibility is an important decision. The good news is that there are several

supportive funding options available to help make adapted driving more affordable and

accessible all year round.

Here are some of the key routes to explore:

Motability Scheme Support

The Motability Scheme offers funding for a wide range of adaptations, including many that help with comfort and safety. Many adaptations are included at no extra cost when fitted to your Motability vehicle, and others are available with financial contributions.

Charities and Grant Organisations

A number of national and regional charities offer grants that can support vehicle adaptations or help complement Motability funding. These organisations often assist individuals who require adaptations for independence, work, medical needs, or daily living.

Payment Plans and Flexible Options

For those arranging adaptations outside of the Motability Scheme, we provide flexible

payment options to help spread costs more comfortably.

Why This Matters: Independence, Safety & Confidence

For many people with reduced mobility, driving their own adapted vehicle is a powerful way to maintain independence, access work, healthcare, and social connections. Winter should not be a barrier to that freedom. By combining well-chosen adaptations, regular

maintenance, and safe driving habits, you can reduce risks, stay comfortable, and

confidently take on the colder months.

At Mobility in Motion, we believe accessibility is more than just getting in and out of a car, it’s about making every journey safe, manageable, and empowering. For more advice about adapting your vehicle, our team are happy to help you.